PhD Studentship – AI Selecting or Evaluating Humans: Professional and Ethical Tensions in the Use of AI in Organisations (ESRC Centre for Digital Futures at Work)
University of Sussex
Brighton, United Kingdom
The University of Sussex is offering a fully funded PhD studentship within the ESRC Centre for Digital Futures at Work, focusing on the project titled “AI Selecting or Evaluating Humans: Professional and Ethical Tensions in the Use of AI in Organisations.” This interdisciplinary research project examines how artificial intelligence is increasingly used in organisational contexts for recruitment, evaluation, and decision-making processes, raising important ethical, professional, and governance challenges.
The successful candidate will explore the implications of AI systems in shaping workplace practices, with particular attention to fairness, accountability, transparency, and professional judgement. The project aims to generate insights into how organisations adopt and manage AI-driven decision-making tools and the tensions that arise between technological efficiency and ethical responsibility.
The PhD researcher will be part of the ESRC Centre for Digital Futures at Work, a leading research centre that brings together expertise from multiple disciplines to investigate the impact of digital technologies on work and employment. The student will receive comprehensive research training, supervision from experienced academics, and opportunities to collaborate with industry partners and policymakers.
The programme includes access to a vibrant research community, interdisciplinary training, and professional development opportunities. The studentship typically covers tuition fees, a stipend for living costs, and access to additional research funding, in line with ESRC funding guidelines.
Eligibility Criteria
- A strong undergraduate degree (first-class or upper second-class honours or equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as management, sociology, data science, information systems, or a related field
- A Master’s degree in a relevant subject (preferred)
- Demonstrated interest in AI, ethics, organisational studies, or digital technologies and work
- Ability to undertake independent and interdisciplinary research
- Fulfilment of English language requirements where applicable
Required expertise/skills
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Interest or experience in qualitative and/or quantitative research methods
- Ability to engage with interdisciplinary research topics
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to develop and articulate research ideas clearly
- Awareness of ethical considerations in research and technology use
Salary details
Fully funded studentship covering tuition fees and a stipend in line with ESRC funding rates, with additional research support funding available
Application Deadline
Not specified