Doctoral researcher in Computational Social Science

About us

The University of Luxembourg is an international research university with a distinctly multilingual and interdisciplinary character.

The Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust (SnT) at the University of Luxembourg is a leading international research and innovation centre in secure, reliable and trustworthy ICT systems and services.

We play an instrumental role in Europe by fueling innovation through research partnerships with industry, boosting R&D investments leading to economic growth, and attracting highly qualified talent. We look for researchers from diverse academic backgrounds to contribute to our projects in areas such as: Network Security, Information Assurance, Model-driven Security, Cloud Computing, Cryptography, Satellite Systems, Vehicular Networks, and ICT Services & Applications.

Your role

The successful candidate will become a member of the Interdisciplinary Centre for Security, Reliability and Trust within the Interdisciplinary Research in Sociotechnical Cybersecurity (IRiSC) Team under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Gabriele LENZINI, Chief Scientist at SnT/UL and Associate Professor at the University of Luxembourg. They will contribute to cutting-edge research in misinformation/disinformation within the FNR-funded project CLARITY (Community-Led Analysis and Reporting to Improve Trust and Transparency).

The main tasks will be to:

• Develop AI-assisted tools leveraging large language models (LLMs) to support community-based fact-checking
• Design and evaluate methods to improve the robustness of algorithms used in community-driven fact-checking systems
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary researchers across cybersecurity, social sciences, and AI
• Publish research findings in top-tier scientific conferences and peer-reviewed journals

Your profile

• MSc degree or equivalent in Computer Science, Information Systems, Data Science, or a related field
• Strong interest in online content moderation, misinformation intervention, and computational social science
• Solid programming skills, e.g., Python, machine learning frameworks, data analysis tools
• Experience with social media research or large language models is an advantage
• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities

Language Requirements:

Applicants must demonstrate at least B2-level proficiency in the language of their thesis. For details and accepted certificates, please visit the Application for admission - Doctoral Candidates.

We offer

• A modern, dynamic university with a personal and inclusive atmosphere. Multilingual and international character. Staff coming from more than 90 countries. Member of The Guild of European Research Intensive Universities
• An exceptional research environment, supported by skilled staff and high-quality equipment. Strong links to professional sectors and the Luxembourg labour market. A unique urban campus with excellent infrastructure
• A partner for society and industry. Cooperation with European institutions, innovative companies, the Financial Centre and a wide range of non-academic partners including ministries, local governments, associations, and NGOs

How to apply

Applications should include:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Cover letter including:
  • A short description of your background
  • Research experience if any
  • Three research questions on the community-based fact-checking / LLM as Fact-Checkers / related topics that could be discussed
• Transcript of all modules and results from university-level courses taken
• Two letters of recommendations and names, contact information and current position of referees who can, upon request, provide an assessment of the application. Please indicate their relationship to you

Early application is highly encouraged, as the applications will be processed upon reception. Please apply ONLINE formally through the HR system. Applications by Email will not be considered.

All qualified individuals are encouraged to apply. In line with our values, the University of Luxembourg promotes an inclusive culture. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds and are dedicated to upholding equality and respect for our employees and students.

General information:

• Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract 36 Month
• Work Hours: Full Time 40.0 Hours per Week
• Location: Kirchberg Campus
• Internal Title: Doctoral Researcher
• Job Reference: UOL08116

The yearly gross salary for every Doctoral researcher at the UL is EUR 41976 (full time).