Fully-Funded PhD in Data Governance at University of Amsterdam
Apply Now: Fully Funded PhD Positions in Data Governance and Democracy at the University of Amsterdam (Deadline: 31 May 2025)
The Department of Media Studies at the University of Amsterdam (UvA) is offering three fully funded PhD positions as part of a cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research project. Funded by the European Research Council (ERC) and led by Professor Stefania Milan, this project investigates how data-driven technologies are reshaping democratic practices and social governance.
If you are passionate about digital governance, data infrastructures, and democratic transformation, this is your chance to be part of a high-impact research environment in one of Europe’s top universities.
About the Research Project
The ERC-funded project explores how biometric systems, digital identities, health technologies, and education tech are transforming everyday governance. The research team will use innovative participatory and qualitative methods to critically examine the societal consequences of these infrastructures.
PhD candidates will specialize in one of the following four thematic domains:
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Biometric Technologies
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Digital Identity Systems
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Health Technologies
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Education Technologies
Each position provides the opportunity to conduct interdisciplinary research spanning media studies, political science, anthropology, public policy, and informatics.
What You’ll Do
As a PhD candidate, your responsibilities will include:
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Conducting original research leading to a doctoral thesis (article-based or monograph).
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Participating in data collection, policy analysis, and qualitative fieldwork.
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Collaborating with an international, interdisciplinary team.
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Presenting findings at academic conferences and workshops.
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Publishing peer-reviewed articles and contributing to public-facing outputs.
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Assisting in organizing events and contributing to the academic life of the department.
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Engaging in the UvA Graduate School of Humanities and national PhD training programs.
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Data Governance and Democracy Schloarship Program (Eligibility Criteria)
You are eligible to apply if you:
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Hold a Master’s degree in relevant disciplines such as media studies, sociology, political science, public policy, anthropology, information systems, development studies, public health, or critical computing.
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Have excellent academic and research skills demonstrated by a strong Master’s thesis.
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Are self-motivated, organized, and able to work both independently and collaboratively.
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Have experience in qualitative and/or participatory research methods.
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Are interested in interdisciplinary and socially engaged research.
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Are open to learning new methods and experimental approaches.
Data Governance and Democracy Schloarship Program (What the University Offers)
Successful applicants will receive:
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A 4-year fully funded PhD contract
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A full tuition waiver
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Access to a wide range of graduate training and methods courses
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Travel funds for attending international conferences and summer schools
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A dynamic, international work environment in central Amsterdam
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Mentorship and supervision within a supportive, team-based setting
The project team values collaboration, flat hierarchies, and intellectual openness. You’ll join a diverse and inclusive group comprising three PhD candidates, two postdocs, a project manager, a student assistant, and the principal investigator.
Data Governance and Democracy Schloarship Program (How to Apply)
To apply, compile the following materials into a single PDF file named:
LastName_FirstName_DATAGOVPhD.pdf
Your application must include:
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Cover Letter (1 page) – Introduce yourself and express your interest.
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Curriculum Vitae (max. 3 pages) – Include education, relevant experience, and language skills. No photo required.
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Motivation Statement (max. 1,000 words) – Address the following:
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How your academic, professional, or personal background prepares you for this project.
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Which of the four domains you are most interested in and why.
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What you hope to learn and achieve during your PhD.
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Two References – Include names, emails, and phone numbers (one should be your thesis supervisor). No reference letters required at this stage.
Application Deadline: 31 May 2025
Interviews: Mid to late June 2025
PhD Start Date: September/October 2025
Note: Professor Stefania Milan will not respond to individual inquiries about the vacancy.
Why Join UvA?
Located in one of Europe’s most vibrant academic cities, the University of Amsterdam offers access to world-class faculty, resources, and research networks. This is your opportunity to shape the future of data governance, democracy, and digital transformation while advancing your academic career in an interdisciplinary setting.
Ready to make an impact?
Apply now and join a research team dedicated to building a better understanding of how data infrastructures are shaping our societies and democracies.