The section of Philosophy (PHIL) of the Department of Technology, Policy and Society (TPS) at the University of Twente (UT) is seeking an assistant professor in Philosophy with a focus on human-technology relations.
You are envisaged to (further) develop a coherent and innovative line of research focused on the interplay between, on the one hand, technological environments, networks and structures and, on the other hand, human self-understanding. We especially seek candidates with a background in philosophical anthropology or philosophy of technology and with an interest in how technology shapes people’s environments and lives. Emphasis may be placed on how technology structures interpersonal relationships, determines their existential condition, or enables them to realize themselves. We are open to a focus on different technologies, including digital technologies such as AI and big data, biomedical technologies, and sustainable technologies.
We expect candidates to publish in international refereed journals, present at conferences, apply for external funding and engage in international and transdisciplinary collaboration, for example collaboration with engineers and technologists on design projects. The candidate is expected to engage with non-academic stakeholders to identify and address societal challenges. We value candidates who are able to generate impact with their work beyond the academy, for example by impacting policy, working with designers and tech companies, or translating philosophical ideas to a broad audience.
Your research will be embedded in the research line in philosophy of human-technology relations of the section of philosophy, which exists next to research lines in ethics and political philosophy of technology and philosophy of science in practice. From there, participation in UT’s research centers and initiatives is encouraged. You are also invited to contribute to the research lines of the faculty and university; these concern among others emerging technologies, health, resilience, learning, and smart industry see link.
You will also participate in Ethics of Socially Disruptive Technologies see link, a prestigious ten-year long international research programme of seven academic institutions in the Netherlands that runs from January 2020 to December 2029, Specifically, you will participate in its research line on the Human Condition which studies implications of disruptive technologies with regard to humans, humanity and the human condition.
You teach courses within your specialization area in the master programme in Philosophy of Science, Technology and Society (PSTS), as well as introductory courses for bachelor and master programs in science & engineering and social science. You are involved in the supervision of master’s theses in the PSTS programme and supervise PhD candidates. Excellent teaching qualifications are key for this position. The division of tasks is 40% research, 50% teaching and 10% other activities, for example management.
YOUR PROFILE
- Hold A PhD in philosophy or related discipline;
- Have a focus on human-technology relations in past research or a demonstrable interest in focusing on it for future research. The focus could be on any technology/technologies, but we are especially interested in a focus on digital technologies, intimate technologies, smart environments, and other emerging technologies. If you (also) have a background in science, engineering and/or design and fit the profile, you are also more than welcome to apply;
- Have an excellent list of publications in peer-refereed journals;
- Have the willingness and ability to engage in inter- and transdisciplinary collaborations;
- Have experience in teaching at the university level, preferably including students in science & engineering, social science, or other non-philosophical fields and demonstrable didactic skills in teaching, good evaluations, and a passion for teaching;
- Have an excellent command of the English language (C1 level);
- Relevant international experience.
We expect that you will to move to the Netherlands, to the region where the University is located or to a region from which a daily commute is feasible.
OUR OFFER
We offer an appointment as assistant professor. After a one year fixed-term position, there is, after evaluation, perspective on a permanent position.
The university offers a dynamic ecosystem with enthusiastic colleagues in which internationalization is an important part of the strategic agenda.
- Starting salary between € 3,974 to € 6,181 gross per month based on your experience;
- An additional holiday allowance of 8% of the gross annual salary and a year-end bonus of 8.3%;
- A solid pension scheme;
- Possibilities to save up holidays for sabbatical leave;
- Minimum of 29 holidays in case of full-time employment;
- Professional and personal development programs;
- A high degree of responsibility and independence, while collaborating with close colleagues, researchers and other university staff is strongly encouraged.
- International applicants may qualify for a low 30% tax regime for the first five years of their appointment.
Starting date is flexible; we are looking for the best candidates. Preferably between August 1st, 2023 and February 1st, 2024.
INFORMATION AND APPLICATION
For more information, please contact Prof. dr. Ciano Aydin ( – chair of the human-tech research line) or Dr. Michael Nagenborg ( – programme director PSTS) or Prof. dr. Philip Brey ( – scientific director of ESDiT).
Your application should include a CV (which should include the title of your dissertation), a letter of application (including a brief summary of your teaching evaluations), a writing sample, and contact information for 2 or more references. Please indicate in your letter whether you wish to be considered for an assistant or associate professorship. Your application and should be sent no later than May 23rd, 2022.