PhD Student in Law / PhD Student in Law

PhD Student in Law

100%, Zurich, fixed-term

As part of the SNSF-funded project, "Responsible AI for the Swiss Judiciary," we are engaged in pioneering research on real-world applications of artificial intelligence within the Swiss judicial system. This initiative involves collaboration with courts and partners across Switzerland, and we are seeking a dedicated PhD Student in Law. This doctoral position offers a unique opportunity to study judicial decision-making in an authentic institutional setting, integrating legal analysis with experimental and empirical methodologies.

Job Description

The doctoral researcher will concentrate on the impact of AI on judicial decision-making, with a particular focus on legal reasoning, behavioral responses, and institutional implications.

Core Responsibilities Include:

• Studying judicial decision-making and legal reasoning in the presence of AI tools.
• Contributing to the development of experimental designs and evaluation frameworks for AI-assisted decision-making.
• Collaborating with the technical team to explore the interaction between AI systems and legal users.
• Publishing research findings in leading journals and presenting at international conferences.
• This position is tailored for a cumulative PhD at the intersection of law, computer science, and empirical social science.
• Our offices are located in downtown Zurich, with German and English as the working languages.

Profile

We are looking for candidates who:

• Hold an excellent bachelor's and master’s degree in law from a Swiss university.
• Demonstrate a strong interest in judicial decision-making and legal reasoning.
• Have an enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research at the intersection of law, AI, and social science.
• Are motivated to work with quantitative empirical methods and are willing to acquire skills in experimental and quantitative research.
• Possess an excellent command of English; proficiency in German and/or French is a plus.

Workplace

Located in the vibrant city of Zurich, our workplace fosters innovation and collaboration. We encourage a diverse and inclusive environment where every staff member and student is respected.

We Offer

• Your role will have a meaningful impact: Join ETH Zurich, an institution committed to your professional development and to fostering positive societal change.
• Enjoy various benefits, including public transport season tickets and car-sharing options, a wide range of sports offered by ASVZ, childcare support, and attractive pension plans.

Our Commitment to Diversity and Sustainability

ETH Zurich is dedicated to promoting an inclusive culture. We value equality of opportunity, appreciate diversity, and strive to create a working and learning environment where the rights and dignity of all individuals are upheld. Visit our Equal Opportunities and Diversity website to learn more about our initiatives for fostering a fair and open environment that allows everyone to thrive. Sustainability is pivotal to our mission, and we continually work towards achieving a climate-neutral future.

Curious? So Are We.

We invite you to apply online using the form below. Please include the following documents:

• Cover letter (detailing your relevant experience for the project and your motivation).
• CV.
• Transcripts.

For further information about the Center for Law & Economics, please visit our website. Questions regarding the position? Reach out to Dr. Jakob Merane at jmerane@ethz.ch. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

About ETH Zurich

ETH Zurich is one of the world's leading universities specializing in science and technology. We are renowned for our outstanding education, cutting-edge fundamental research, and the direct application of new knowledge for societal benefit. Over 30,000 individuals from more than 120 countries choose ETH Zurich as a place that encourages independent thinking and inspires excellence. Situated in the heart of Europe while fostering global connections, we collaborate to develop solutions for today’s and tomorrow's global challenges.