Summary
Universiteit Leiden is offering a full-time PhD position focusing on Responsible AI for Online Safety. This interdisciplinary project sits at the intersection of Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, and computational social science. The successful candidate will develop trustworthy and accountable methods to counter digital manipulation, such as coordinated influence campaigns, social bots, and online fraud.
Key Details at a Glance
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | PhD Candidate |
| Institution | Leiden University (LIACS) |
| Location | Leiden, Netherlands |
| Duration | 4 years (1 year initial + 3 years extension) |
| Monthly Salary | €3,204 to €4,051 gross |
| Application Deadline | 13 December 2026 |
Designation
PhD Candidate (1.0 FTE)
Research Area
The research focuses on Responsible AI, Cybersecurity, and Computational Social Science. Specific topics include modeling AI-driven manipulation, building early warning systems for online harms (fraud/scams), and human-AI collaboration in recognizing digital threats.
Location
Leiden Institute of Advanced Computer Science (LIACS), Faculty of Science, Leiden University, Netherlands.
Eligibility/Qualification
- A Master’s degree in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or a related quantitative field (Mathematics, Physics, or Computational Social Science).
- A solid background in machine learning; knowledge of NLP or Large Language Models (LLMs) is a plus.
- Strong programming skills, particularly in Python and deep learning frameworks like PyTorch.
- Experience working with real-world data and a genuine interest in the societal impact of AI.
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken).
- Ability to work both independently and within a collaborative team environment.
Scholarship Description
The PhD candidate will be embedded in the System and Security cluster at LIACS. The role involves conducting original research, publishing findings in leading scientific venues, and contributing to educational activities as a teaching assistant. The position offers an attractive employment package including:
- A monthly salary starting at €3,204, increasing to €4,051 in the fourth year.
- An 8% holiday allowance and an 8.3% end-of-year bonus.
- Full reimbursement of public transport commuting costs.
- Flexible working hours and 29 to 41 days of annual leave.
- A laptop provided by the university and a hybrid working model (within the Netherlands).
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the Leiden University vacancy portal. Applicants should prepare and attach the following documents:
- Cover Letter: 1–2 pages explaining motivation and research interests.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Academic Transcripts: Records for both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees.
- Scientific Writing Sample: A Master’s thesis or a draft of a scientific publication.
- Code Repositories: Links to GitHub or other software projects, if available.
- References: Contact details for two academic references.
Specific enquiries regarding the position can be directed to Dr. Valerio La Gatta at v.la.gatta@liacs.leidenuniv.nl.
Last Date for Apply
The deadline for applications is 13 December 2026, 23:59 CET. Early applications are encouraged as recruitment may proceed as candidates apply.
