[AISWorld] POSITION: Research Group Leader of the “Algorithmic Decision-Making on Digital Platforms” group in Berlin

[Hanna Krasnova]

Research Group Leader of the “Algorithmic Decision-Making on Digital Platforms” group

The Weizenbaum Institute invites scholars to apply for the position of Research Group Leader of the “Algorithmic Decision-Making on Digital Platforms” group. The expected start date of this full-time position (39 hours per week) is September 15, 2022.

 
The Weizenbaum Institute conducts interdisciplinary and basic research on the transformation of society through digitalisation developing possible approaches and strategies for policymakers, businesses, and civil society. The institute’s aim is to better understand the dynamics, mechanisms, and implications of digitalisation. To this end, the Weizenbaum Institute examines the ethical, legal, economic, and political aspects of the digital transformation. Its guiding values comprise self-determination and sustainability in the digital society. The Weizenbaum Institute is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research. Further information: www.weizenbaum-institut.de/en

Responsibilities:

The Research Group Leader will develop the group’s interdisciplinary research program and be responsible for its implementation and evaluation - both conducting research him-/herself and guiding the other group members. The research program should focus on the operating principles and social design of algorithmic decision-making processes on digital platforms. It can include different emphases: (a) the social, political, or economic impact of algorithmic decision-making processes, for example with regard to transparency, traceability, and potential biases, (b) the role of economic profit interests or public welfare considerations in the shaping of algorithmic decision-making processes, or (c) the acceptance of algorithmic decision-making processes and corresponding effects on users and society more broadly. Different types of digital platforms can be investigated, including but not limited to social media platforms, online labour platforms, and B2B and B2C platforms. The exploration of new research methods and data sources can be part of the research program.

The group’s research program should explore and harness the potentials of collaborating with other units of the Weizenbaum Institute as well as with relevant research organizations in Germany and beyond. In addition to an excellent research track record, a strong commitment to the transfer of knowledge and research findings is expected, including outreach to policymakers, NGOs, industry, and other key stakeholders.

Requirements:

A completed PhD and a disciplinary background in economics, business/management studies, political science, communication science, sociology, psychology, information systems research, computer science, law, or a related field
Expertise in research on algorithmic decision-making and/or platforms, as evidenced by publications and/or prior professional experience
An outstanding research record with international visibility and top publications
Experience in interdisciplinary projects
Preferably proven leadership experience in research environments as well as project management experience
The Research Group Leader will be offered an initial contract over three years and an additional two years subject to funding approval. He/She will receive an annual budget of up to 200,000 € to cover junior researchers, student assistants, and research costs.

We offer:
An attractive working environment in the centre of Berlin in a dynamic academic environment with a broad international network
Flexible working hours and the possibility of working remotely
Remuneration up to TVöD (public service remuneration scale) E 14 (depending on qualification)
Company pension plan (VBL-U)
Individual career development through a wide range of training opportunities

Severely disabled applicants with equal qualification will be given preferential consideration. We value diversity and welcome all applications – regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic or social origin, religion, disability, age, and sexual orientation. The Weizenbaum-Institut e.V. explicitly encourages women as well as persons with a migration background to apply.

The application must include a cover letter, a proposal of the planned research program including a description of the scientific focus and impact (2 pages), an implementation plan including an outline of potential risks and gains (1 page), a CV, a list of publications, and copies of the candidate’s three most important publications. Please submit your application by 6 June 2022, via our applicant portal. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our HR department (personal[at]weizenbaum-institut.de) at any time. We look forward to receiving your documents.

More information at: https://www.weizenbaum-institut.de/en/news-en/forschungsgruppenleitung-algorithmische-entscheidungsverfahren-auf-digitalen-plattformen-m-w-d/ <https://www.weizenbaum-institut.de/en/news-en/forschungsgruppenleitung-algorithmische-entscheidungsverfahren-auf-digitalen-plattformen-m-w-d/>