JOB DESCRIPTION

The successful candidate will work closely with faculty and students in the Techno-Anthropology Lab, contributing to research and teaching activities related to the intersection of anthropology, digital humanities, and computational methods.

As a Research Assistant, the candidate is expected to:

• Assist in teaching and supervising students in courses related to controversy mapping and techno-anthropology, particularly within the bachelor’s and master’s programmes.

• Support research projects that explore the integration of large language models into social science and humanities research, with a focus on knowledge production, cultural analysis, and digital methods.

• Contribute to research and teaching on the role of AI and algorithms in shaping digital democracy, applying Science and Technology Studies(STS) perspectives to critically analyze the social, ethical, and political implications of algorithmic decision-making in public life.

• Collaborate in the design and implementation of data visualization in participatory data design settings and engage with stakeholders in data-driven projects.

• Facilitate workshops and seminars involving computational methods and participatory data design, working with students and external partners to foster socially responsible innovation.

• Participate in the lab’s interdisciplinary research environment, contributing to the development of new research products and knowledge dissemination in relevant academic and public forums.

 QUALIFICATIONS

We are seeking applicants with:

• A background in anthropology or techno-anthropology, with experience in teaching controversy mapping.

• Experience with large language models(LLMs) and their application in digital humanities research, particularly in analyzing and organizing large cultural or social datasets.

• Expertise in studying AI and algorithms through an STS lens, with a focus on understanding how these technologies impact public engagement and the governance of digital infrastructures.

• Strong skills in data visualization and participatory design methodologies, with a track record of engaging communities or stakeholders in collaborative data projects.

• An ability to work in an interdisciplinary research setting, with a demonstrated interest in combining computational methods with qualitative approaches.

• Excellent collaborative abilities, and a proactive approach to contributing to the overall activities and working environment of the Techno-Anthropology Lab.

WORKING ENVIRONMENT

The Techno-Anthropology Lab is an interdisciplinary research unit that combines Science& Technology Studies(STS), digital humanities, and computational social science. The lab’s research program emphasizes critical engagement with computational tools for mapping, visualizing, and interpreting complex socio-cultural data. Collaboration with external partners, both academic and non-academic, is a key part of the lab's mission to develop socially responsible and impactful knowledge products.

We are looking for candidates who will contribute to the research agenda by applying innovative digital methods to study technological and cultural controversies and by fostering participation in data design projects that bring together diverse perspectives and skills.

The successful applicant will be expected to attend the department on a regular basis and engage actively in the daily life of the lab and its related programs.

For more information on the Department of Culture and Learning and the Techno-Anthropology Lab, please visit our website https://www.en.culture.aau.dk/research/research-groups/tantlab.

The position as research assistant is a fixed term academic position. The main responsibilities are research and/or teaching. A small number of working hours may be devoted to academic development and the performance of other duties.


Qualification requirements
Applicants must hold academic qualifications at master’s degree level.


The application
The application must contain the following:

• Coverletter

• Curriculum vitae

• If you have made any publications, please enclose a publication list, marking the attached publications, to be taken into consideration in connection with the assessment. A maximum of five publications may be attached.

• In case the applicant attaches publications elaborated in collaboration with co-authors, a co-author statement must be enclosed, specifying the applicant’s contribution to the joint work. The co-author statement must be signed by at least one of the co-authors. Template co-author declaration.

• Documentation of teaching qualifications Guidance Teaching portfolio.(optional)

• Copies of degree certificates(including Master’s and, if any PhD certificates).

The application including attachments must be sent electronically by clicking the“Apply online” link below.


Assessment
The assessment of candidates for the position will be carried out by qualified experts.

Shortlisting will be applied. This means that after the application deadline, the head of the department, with the assistance of the hiring committee, will select the applicants to be assessed. All applicants will be informed whether they have been shortlisted for assessment or not.

When the hiring process is completed, a final rejection will be sent to the applicants who are not considered for the position


Contact information
Any enquiries about the position may be addressed to assistant professor Mathieu Jacomy, phone+45 9940 2384 or email mathieuj@ikl.aau.dk 

Any enquiries relating to the application procedure should be addressed to Human Resources on email SSH-hr@adm.aau.dk.

AAU wishes to reflect the diversity of society and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates regardless of personal background or belief.

The hiring process at Aalborg University may include a risk assessment as a tool to identify potential risks associated with new hires, ensuring the safety, compliance, and integrity of the workplace.

Wages and employment

Ref number

2024-224-06135

Deadline

06.12.2024