Assistant professor in philosophy with a focus on human-technology relations

You are envisaged to (further) develop a coherent and innovative line of research focused on the interplay between, on the one hand, technological environments, networks and structures and, on the other hand, human self-understanding. We especially seek candidates with a background in philosophical anthropology or philosophy of technology and with an interest in how technology shapes people's environments and lives. Emphasis may be placed on how technology structures interpersonal relationships, determines their existential condition, or enables them to realize themselves. We are open to a focus on different technologies, including digital technologies such as AI and big data, biomedical technologies, and sustainable technologies.

We expect candidates to publish in international refereed journals, present at conferences, apply for external funding and engage in international and transdisciplinary collaboration, for example collaboration with engineers and technologists on design projects. The candidate is expected to engage with non-academic stakeholders to identify and address societal challenges. We value candidates who are able to generate impact with their work beyond the academy, for example by impacting policy, working with designers and tech companies, or translating philosophical ideas to a broad audience.

Your research will be embedded in the research line in philosophy of human-technology relations of the section of philosophy, which exists next to research lines in ethics and political philosophy of technology and philosophy of science in practice. From there, participation in UT’s research centers and initiatives is encouraged. You are also invited to contribute to the research lines of the faculty and university; these concern among others emerging technologies, health, resilience, learning, and smart industry see link.

You will also participate in Ethics of Socially Disruptive Technologies see link, a prestigious ten-year long international research programme of seven academic institutions in the Netherlands that runs from January 2020 to December 2029, Specifically, you will participate in its research line on the Human Condition which studies implications of disruptive technologies with regard to humans, humanity and the human condition.

You teach courses within your specialization area in the master programme in Philosophy of Science, Technology and Society (PSTS), as well as introductory courses for bachelor and master programs in science & engineering and social science. You are involved in the supervision of master’s theses in the PSTS programme and supervise PhD candidates. Excellent teaching qualifications are key for this position. The division of tasks is 40% research, 50% teaching and 10% other activities, for example management, for the first year.  Research time drops to 30% after two years, but can be increased through grant acquisition.

• Hold A PhD in philosophy or related discipline;
• Have a focus on human-technology relations in past research or a demonstrable interest in focusing on it for future research. The focus could be on any technology/technologies, but we are especially interested in a focus on digital technologies, intimate technologies, smart environments, and other emerging technologies. If you (also) have a background in science, engineering and/or design and fit the profile, you are also more than welcome to apply;
• Have an excellent list of publications in peer-refereed journals;
• Have the willingness and ability to engage in inter- and transdisciplinary collaborations;
• Have experience in teaching at the university level, preferably including students in science & engineering, social science, or other non-philosophical fields and demonstrable didactic skills in teaching, good evaluations, and a passion for teaching;
• Have an excellent command of the English language (C1 level);
• Relevant international experience.

We expect that you will to move to the Netherlands, to the region where the University is located or to a region from which a daily commute is feasible.

We offer an appointment as assistant professor. After a one year fixed-term position, there is, after evaluation, perspective on a permanent position.

The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in which internationalization is an important part of the strategic agenda.

• Starting salary between € 3,974 to € 6,181 gross per month based on your experience;
• An additional holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%;
• A solid pension scheme;
• Possibilities to save up holidays for sabbatical leave;
• Minimum of 29 holidays in case of full-time employment;
• Professional and personal development programs;
• A high degree of responsibility and independence, while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other university staff is strongly encouraged.
• International applicants may qualify for a low 30% tax regime for the first five years of their appointment.

Starting date is flexible; we are looking for the best candidates. Preferably between August 1st, 2023 and February 1st, 2024.

About the department

The section of philosophy seelink is internationally leading in the philosophy and ethics of technology. It currently counts 42 staff members (including PhD students). The department also participates in the interuniversity 4TU.Center for Ethics and Technology (www.ethicsandtechnology.eu). Both the section and the Center have a strong international orientation and include members from many different nationalities. The section is embedded in a larger department of TPS, which consists of four other sections.

About the organisation

The Faculty of Behavioral, Management and Social sciences (BMS) aims to play a key role in understanding, jointly developing and evaluating innovations in society. Technological developments are the engine of innovation. As a technical university that puts people first, we tailor them to human needs and behavior and use social engineering to integrate them into society. We also ensure adequate governance at public and private level, and robust, inclusive and fair organizational structures. We do this by developing, sharing and applying high-quality knowledge in Psychology, Business Administration, Public Administration, Communication Sciences, Philosophy, Educational Sciences and Health Sciences. Our research and education in these disciplines revolves around tackling and solving societal challenges. The research programs of BMS are closely linked to the research of the UT institutes Mesa+ Institute for Nanotechnology, TechMed Center and Digital Society Institute.

As an employer, the Faculty of BMS offers work that matters. We equip you to create new possibilities for yourself and for our society. With us, you will become part of a leading technical university with increasing, positive social impact. We offer an open, inclusive and entrepreneurial atmosphere, in which we encourage you to make healthy choices, for example through our flexible, adaptable benefits.

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