PhD Candidate in Military AI Ethics: The Royal Military Academy (RMA) is offering a fully-funded PhD position in the field of Military AI Ethics, focusing on the moral implications of artificial intelligence (AI) in military operations, specifically the distribution of risks between combatants and noncombatants. This position is part of the MIAMICC project, exploring key themes in AI ethics, including risk distribution, noncombatant immunity, and the ethical implications of AI-driven military targeting decisions. The candidate will work closely with the Department of Behavioral Sciences at RMA and the KU Leuven Institute of Philosophy.
- PhD Position: Ethics of AI and Risk Distribution in Military Operations (M/F/X)
- Location: Royal Military Academy, Brussels, Belgium
- Application Deadline: 31 March 2025
Designation:
PhD Candidate in Military AI Ethics
Research Area:
Military Ethics, Artificial Intelligence Ethics, International Humanitarian Law, Military Technology
Location:
Royal Military Academy, Avenue de la Renaissance 30, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Eligibility/Qualification:
- Essential:
- Master’s degree in Philosophy
- Strong training or experience in Philosophy
- Good command of English (oral and written)
- Desirable:
- Familiarity with military ethics, AI ethics, international humanitarian law, or artificial intelligence
- Experience in academic research, publishing, and scientific conferences
- Strong communication skills and the ability to conduct independent research in a multidisciplinary environment
Job Description:
- Conduct research aligned with the MIAMICC project, exploring ethical issues related to AI in military operations.
- Publish findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences.
- Contribute to the development of a doctoral thesis.
- Collaborate with academic and military stakeholders within the Department of Behavioral Sciences at RMA and the KU Leuven Institute of Philosophy.
- Participate in research group activities and work on advancing military AI ethics.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should send the following documents by email to:
- Ann-Katrien Oimann (ann-katrien.oimann@mil.be)
- Lode Lauwaert (lode.lauwaert@kuleuven.be)
- ermdeao-rswo@mil.be
Required Documents:
- CV (including academic qualifications, relevant experience, and contact details of two referees)
- Motivational letter explaining your suitability for the position
- A sample of academic writing (e.g., thesis chapter or research paper)
- A scan of your ID card (both sides)
Project Reference: MIAMICC
Last Date to Apply:
31 March 2025
Contract Details:
- Start Date: From September 2025 (in consultation with the candidate)
- Status: Full-time, open-ended contract (funded for 4 years through the MIAMICC project)
- Wage: Based on class A1 (holder of a Master’s degree in Science or equivalent), with merit-based progression
- Additional Benefits: Holiday pay, end-of-year bonus, healthcare benefits, travel allowances, flexible working hours, teleworking options, and other employee benefits.
Extra Legal Benefits:
- Possibility of bilingualism allowance (Dutch/French)
- Free DKV hospitalization insurance
- Bike allowance / Free public transport
- Meal vouchers, campus sports access, and flexible working hours
- Additional holidays, Christmas break, and more.
Workplace:
Royal Military Academy, Avenue de la Renaissance 30, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Occasional international travel for conferences may be required.
For more information or questions, contact:
- Ann-Katrien Oimann (ann-katrien.oimann@mil.be)
This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the growing field of military ethics and AI research, shaping the future of AI in military operations while working within a vibrant academic environment.
