Quantum Technology Postdoctoral Research Fellow: Constructing the Field of Quantum Technology

Do you want to study how development processes of and imaginaries with respect to quantum technologies? And do you want to advocate for considering societal impact and normative perspectives in this area and contribute to building bridges between relevant communities?

This postdoctoral research fellow position is part of the new research group on the law and governance of quantum technologies at the Institute for Information Law , University of Amsterdam. The Institute for Information Law is one of the largest research facilities in information law world-wide. The Institute brings together more than 40 researchers from a variety of disciplinary backgrounds. The research group is a part of Action line 4 on the Ethical, Legal And Societal Aspects of Quantum Technologies of the Quantum Delta NL ecosystem. At the University of Amsterdam, you will contribute to the activities of Quantum.Amsterdam and collaborate with the newly established Critical Infrastructure Lab and other relevant initiatives.

What are you going to do

Over the last years, public and private investment in quantum technologies, including quantum computing, communications and sensing, have received a significant boost. Quantum computing promises, if or when fully realizable, to add additional special-purpose computational capacity to our current-day digital infrastructure. Quantum sensing technologies are at a more advanced stage of development and will add advanced sensing and measurement capacity. Quantum communications technologies have potential applications in communications security and may see application in the space industry.

While real-world applications of most quantum technologies are still in their infancy, various initiatives have been launched to understand the possible societal impact of quantum technologies and to ensure that the development of these technologies proceeds responsibly. At the same time, the range of actors that now engages quantum theory and technology has broadened significantly, from a small community of quantum information scientists, to experts in social science, law, technology governance, public policy, ethics, international relations, as well as investors, tech industry leaders, policy makers, think tanks, journalists and the broader public.

The research fellow will explore the social construction of the field of quantum technology, addressing questions such as the following. How are imaginaries for quantum technologies negotiated across competitive fields of expertise, and between technical and non-technical experts? In what settings or for what purposes do these negotiations happen? Who engages in hype, who engages in counter-hype, and to what effects?  What combinations of actors or expertise are enjoying traction, and for what purposes?

The research fellow will be part of the research group on the Law and Governance of Quantum Technologies at the Institute for Information Law (IViR) at the Faculty of Law of the University of Amsterdam. You will conduct original, cutting-edge research into the socio-technical and legal aspects of quantum technologies with a focus on emerging governance discussions relating to quantum technology and its development. You will participate in relevant fora for the governance of quantum technologies, contributing to the mission of responsible quantum technology development. You will play a bridge-building role between the research group and relevant technical communities, and depending on your background, develop relevant insights into the way in which different types of expertise get valued and negotiated.

What do we require

• a completed PhD degree in science and technology studies, law & technology, technology policy and management, or other relevant field;
• a knowledgeable curiosity for developments in quantum technologies, and demonstrable expertise and experience in conducting research in technology (governance) ecosystems;

• excellent academic credentials, as demonstrated by grades and/or curriculum vitae;
• a creative mind and strong critical and analytical skills;
• an interest in working across disciplines, using different methods, and collaborations with other relevant disciplines;
• strong communication skills and a dedication to contributing to diverse and inclusive team dynamics;
• excellent language skills in English and one or more other languages;

If the vacancy appeals to you, but you are doubting whether you might be THE person we are looking for, please do apply. We particularly welcome applications from candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.

Our offer

We offer a temporary full-time contract for the period of 2 years (with a probationary period of two months). The preferred starting date is 1 September 2023, with a possibility to start earlier.

Your salary, depending on your relevant experience on commencement of the employment contract, ranges between €3974 to €5439 gross per month on the basis of a full working week of 38 hours. This is exclusive 8% holiday allowance and 8.3% end-of-year bonus. The Collective Labour Agreement of Dutch Universities is applicable.

The Amsterdam Law School  prides itself on its international orientation and strong social commitment. This is reflected by both its research and educational activities. The Amsterdam Law School offers three Bachelor’s programs, including the interdisciplinary English-language Bachelor Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics (PPLE) in cooperation with two other faculties, as well as a variety of Master's programs, several of which are taught exclusively in English (i.e. International and European Law, European Private Law, International Criminal Law, and Law & Finance). The Amsterdam Law School prepares students for a wide variety of legal careers including law firms, government, business and industry, the national and international judiciary, public service, human rights advocacy, and academia. With 5000 students and over 500 staff members, it is one of the largest law faculties in the Netherlands.

To work at the University of Amsterdam is to work in a discerning, independent, creative, innovative and international climate characterized by an open atmosphere and a genuine engagement with the city of Amsterdam and society. Here you can read more about working at the University of Amsterdam.

Questions

Do you have any questions or do you require additional information? Please contact:

Prof. Dr. Joris van Hoboken, [email protected]

Job application

Do you recognize yourself in the job profile? Then we look forward to receiving your application by 24 April 2023. You may apply online by using the link below.

Applications in .pdf should include:

• a curriculum vitae and a list of 2-3 references that can be contacted in the process;
• a letter of motivation describing your background and interests relative to the project;
• one or two exemplary writing samples;

The UvA is an equal-opportunity employer. We prioritise diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for everyone. We value a spirit of enquiry and perseverance, provide the space to keep asking questions, and promote a culture of curiosity and creativity.

No agencies please.