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Postdoctoral Research Associate, School of Data Science

Job Description


The School of Data Science (SDS) at the University of Virginia (UVA) seeks a postdoctoral research associate to work in collaboration with the Jeff Bleich Center, Flinders University of South Australia, exploring issues that relate to collective US-Australia-UK cooperation relevant to national security and wellbeing at a time when society is being transformed by the use and misuse of digital data. This is a one-year appointment; however, appointment may be renewed for an additional year contingent upon available funding and satisfactory performance.

More specifically, in an era of increasing reliance on open-source intelligence (OSI), how can we ensure responsible use of AI as applied to the analysis and interpretation of that OSI (as well as decisions made on the basis of such analysis)? Whilst numerous ethical frameworks for the use of AI have been developed and discussed, how can we ensure that they are fit for purpose and appropriate across various global contexts. A vast range of OSI sources are available, encompassing social media, news reports, commercial and other real time data, which offer up to the minute insights into regional and global developments, but these are only as reliable as their inputs. The use of AI in a national security context offers great benefits and consequent risks. As the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) notes in a recent report on The Future of Open-Source Intelligence for UK National Security “purchased datasets are only as good as those providing the filtration”. The Report therefore advocates for specialist officers who can work “closely with suppliers to ensure the data being provided is secure and accurate”. This implies a need for strict application of ethical and legal frameworks and highly trained humans in the loop to manage such risks.

This research project would consider the ethical and legal issues relevant to the application of AI and open-source intelligence in a national security context. Recent published research establishes that to date very little work has been done in this area. Major questions to be addressed are:

  • What are existing successes and failures in the application of AI and open-source intelligence in a national security context?

  • What differences in the policies and laws surrounding open-source intelligence data among the three allies impact the application of responsible AI?

  • What recommendations can be made to further the ethical application and resultant security of the IS-Australia-UK alliance when using AI on open-source intelligence.

Qualifications:

  • A PhD in a relevant field of study by the start date of the position.

  • An understanding of AI and open-source intelligence.

  • Demonstrated multidisciplinary approach to the analysis of the strategic implications of digital technologies.

  • Demonstrated ability to comprehend complex contemporary issues in defence, social cybersecurity, digital governance; trust in the strategic environment; networks and data management.

  • Demonstrated well-developed interpersonal skills and experience in collaborating and engaging with diverse stakeholders from academia, government and industry.

TO APPLY:

Please visit UVA job board: https://uva.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/UVAJobs and search for “R0045095

Complete an application and attach:

  • Cover Letter
  • Curriculum Vitae 
  • Contact information for three individuals who can provide professional reference letters.

Please note that multiple documents can be uploaded in the box.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Review of applications will begin March 6, 2023 and continue until the position is filled. The University will perform background checks on all new hires prior to employment.

For questions about the position, please contact: Phil Bourne, Dean of the School of Data Science (peb6a@virginia.edu ) For questions about the application process, please contact: Rhiannon O'Coin (mo2r@virginia.edu )

For more information about the School of Data Science, please see www.datascience.virginia.edu

For more information about the University of Virginia and the Charlottesville community, please see www.virginia.edu/life/charlottesville and www.embarkuva.com

For more information about benefits available to postdoctoral associates at UVA, visit www.postdoc.virginia.edu and www.hr.virginia.edu/benefits

The selected candidate will be required to complete a background check at the time of the offer per University policy.


COVID Vaccination Requirement and Guidelines

Please visit the UVA COVID-19 Job Requirements and Guidelines  webpage prior to applying for current information regarding vaccination requirements?and?guidelines for employment at UVA.

The University of Virginia, i ncluding the UVA Health System which represents the UVA Medical Center, Schools of Medicine and Nursing, UVA Physician’s Group and the Claude Moore Health Sciences Library, are fundamentally committed to the diversity of our faculty and staff.  We believe diversity is excellence expressing itself through every person's perspectives and lived experiences.  We are equal opportunity and affirmative action employers. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity or expression, marital status, national or ethnic origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, veteran status, and family medical or genetic information.


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