"Postdoctoral Research Associate in Ethics of AI and Emerging Technologies"

Postdoctoral Research Associate in Ethics of AI and Emerging Technologies

The Center for Practical Ethics at the University of Mississippi

Location: On-campus, University of Mississippi
Start Date: August 17, 2026
Salary: $50,000 - $70,000/year commensurate with demonstrated expertise and fit with center research needs*
Benefits: full benefits + $3,000 annual travel support
Term: 2 years (subject to satisfactory performance and funding)

Position Overview

The Center invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Associate specializing in the ethics of AI and emerging technologies. This role will support both independent and collaborative research with particular attention to issues related to:

• AI ethics education (in collaboration with Prof. Deborah Mower)
• Psychological and social impacts of AI
• Resource needs, labor impacts, and ethical implications in the context of AI
• The economic, legal, and social dimensions of emerging technologies

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with center leadership and research fellows on grants, publications, and conference presentations.
• Help design and implement our signature Policy Talks events
• Conduct and publish independent research aligned with the center’s mission.
• Engage actively in the intellectual life of the center and university (attending events, talks, panels, and conferences)
• Teach one course per year (online or in-person)

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in philosophy, ethics, public policy, or a related field awarded on or after May 2023. Candidates who will complete their Ph.D. by August 1, 2026 may apply (evidence of all requirements and successful dissertation defense required)
• Specialization in ethics and emerging technologies (particularly AI)
• Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality research and writing

Application Requirements

Please submit:

• Curriculum Vitae
• Research Proposal (1,000–1,500 words) detailing intended project(s) during the fellowship
• Writing Sample (up to 8,000 words, excluding bibliography)
• Contact info for three referees who can speak to your qualifications and proposed research

*Additional funding possible for exceptional candidates.

Job Responsibilities: Applicant must have a Ph.D. in Philosophy, Ethics, Public Policy, or a related field.

Education Qualifications: PhD, PhD: Philosophy, PhD: Public Policy Analysis