PhD-Positions in Ethics of AI and Theoretical Philosophy of AI at FAU 2026

Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg is looking for a candidate with clear intellectual and academic excellence, capable of good teamwork, with an international outlook, and good English proficiency. The specific topic of the PhD will be developed in year one, but at the moment, we think that some fruitful areas of research may include: agency, intention, perception, limits of machine-learning, AI in education & research, AI and philosophical method, well-being, and human rights. Some organisational or teaching work for the Centre is assumed (ca. 15%). Employees are expected to reside in the region and to work on-site at PAIR during the semester time most of the week.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Benefits
• Requirements
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineMarch 6, 2026
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorFriedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg
• City to studyBavaria
• School to studyFriedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• Regular promotion to the next level and increase in salary pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement for the public service of the German Länder (TV-L) or remuneration pursuant to the Bavarian Public Servants Remuneration Act (BayBesG) plus an additional annual bonus
• 30 days annual leave at five working days per week with additional free days on December 24 and 31
• Occupational pension scheme and asset accumulation savings scheme

Salary at level TV-L E13, 65% (currently starting at approx. €38,000/year, before tax). The employment includes social security benefits, health insurance (1/2 employer, 1/2 employee), pension, sick pay, etc.

Requirements

• Masters degree in philosophy or a closely related discipline, by the time of appointment.
• We do not require that applicants already have a visa & work permit for the EU/Germany.
   

Application Documents

• motivation letter (1-2 pages) 
• 2–4 page outline of a proposed PhD project (including references)
• CV 
• contact information for 2 referees

Check also:
2026 Fully Funded Humboldt Research Fellowship
2026 Konrad Adenauer Foundation Scholarship

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Applications are made via e-mail to [email protected], with subject “PAIR PhD: Application”, with a single PDF that includes the Application documents.

For more information, kindly visit the FAU webpage.