Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d): Evaluating the Impact of AI for Sustainability and Public Interest (ImpactAI)

Are you interested in exploring the extent of the positive and negative impacts of AI on climate change? Is transdisciplinarity more than just a buzzword to you – is it the type of research that excites you? Does evaluation represent more than a formal requirement for you, serving instead as an opportunity to conduct a detailed and robust analysis of the social impact of AI systems?

The ImpactAI research project investigates AI initiatives designed to serve the public interest in the context of sustainability. Its goal is to develop a transdisciplinary method for auditing AI projects and assessing their contributions to societal transformation and ecological sustainability. The methodology integrates quantitative analyses with qualitative aspects. In collaboration with project partners such as Greenpeace and Economy for the Common Good, as well as a transdisciplinary advisory board, 15 case studies will be analysed to identify opportunities, challenges, and limitations of AI initiatives. We are looking for someone to help us tackle this exciting challenge.

The Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society (HIIG) is looking for an 

Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) 
(e.g., from Computer Science, Data Science) 

for the scientific, organisational, and strategic aspects of the project (fixed-term for five years, at least 70% FTE, salary according to TV-L 13 or 14 depending on qualifications, plus family, literature and travel allowances). The research project is funded by the VolkswagenStiftung under the Change! Fellowship programme.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Implementing the transdisciplinary research design, including the strategic and conceptual development and execution of a detailed research plan in collaboration with the project lead
• Lead the technical auditing and evaluation of AI projects
• Contributing to the conceptual development of the transdisciplinary evaluation method and organising the development process
• Supporting the execution of 15 case studies and audits within the project consortium
• Working independently and responsibly to meet project goals and milestones, particularly in producing scientific reports, journal contributions and participating in consortium-level activities, such as conferences

We are looking for the following qualifications:

• A completed degree in Computer Science, Data Science, or related fields, ideally with a relevant doctorate (e.g., evaluation of sustainability in IT)
• Experience in AI and sustainability, preferably with established contacts in relevant networks, as well as an interest in coordinating and maintaining international networks
• A strong interest and experience in transdisciplinary (or at least interdisciplinary) contexts, with a proven ability to collaborate across disciplines
• Openness and enthusiasm for knowledge transfer and direct, ongoing collaboration with stakeholders, combined with the diplomatic skill to navigate diverse perspectives and facilitate dialogue
• Ideally, an interest in broader socially relevant topics, such as the public interest, democratic development, and societal transformation processes
• Strong strategic and conceptual thinking, organisational talent
• Independence, initiative, responsibility, motivation and teamwork
• Excellent English skills are essential; German skills are desirable

What we offer:

• The opportunity to develop and establish a new transdisciplinary evaluation method to be used in the long term
• Collaboration in a small, interdisciplinary and highly motivated team at a renowned and innovative research institute committed to impact and knowledge transfer
• An excellent position to further develop your research profile, create your own initiatives and influence ongoing debates on AI for the public interest and sustainability
• Support for research through student assistants, as well as material and travel funding
• A family-friendly work environment with flexible hours, flat hierarchies and an alternative approach to traditional academic structures
• Dedicated colleagues from diverse disciplines at a forward-looking institute in the heart of Berlin.

How to apply:

Does this position interest you? If so, we look forward to receiving your application, including a detailed CV, a short motivation letter, relevant certificates and your earliest possible starting date. Please submit your application through the online form provided below. Applications are considered on a rolling basis. This position will remain open until a suitable candidate is found. Please note that we value the selection of new team members highly and may conduct several rounds of interviews as part of the process. For substantive questions regarding the job posting, please contact Dr. Theresa Züger at zueger@hiig.de. We look forward to your application!