Senior Scientist Digital Society
About this position
TNO Vector aims to accelerate the embedding of innovation in society and the economy. We analyse major societal developments and reflect on how the challenges of our time converge. In this way we provide the knowledge needed to ensure good governance and policy – today and for as long as possible into the future. Digital technologies, including Artificial intelligence, are driving innovation at high speed in our society, with applications in many fields. Alongside the opportunities that they present, there are still many questions about these technologies. TNO Vector plays a central role in finding answers to these questions, including how we should create and structure effective governance and policies.
What will be your role?
Our Strategy & Policy Research Group is looking for a Senior Scientist to develop a strong national and international knowledge position focused on issues relating to public policy, digitalization and AI. Specifically we are working on questions related to the use of digital technologies in the public sector, technology impact assessments, questions of privacy and ethics and governance of digital technologies. With your intrinsic motivation to drive broad scale societal impact and sound ethical compass you will shape and implement TNO Vector’s vision and strategy.
Furthermore, you will:
- Provide leadership at the cross-section of scientific knowledge and market;
- Apply your expertise in multi-disciplinary projects and acquisitions, acting as Subject Matter Expert;
- (Co)Write scientific and other publications and present at relevant conferences;
- Develop new research programs;
- Mentor young scientists.
What we expect from you
We are looking for someone with curiosity and the desire to explore complex questions with a group of like-minded colleagues. You come with a strong scientific background connecting with the fields of digitalisation, digital governance, the impact of technology on public service delivery and on society. You feel comfortable working within a team that’s both multidisciplinary and multinational. You will also:
- Have a relevant PhD and demonstrable experience playing a key role in one or more of the aforementioned fields;
- Have an outstanding track record of collaboration in complex and large scale national and preferably European projects (eg. Horizon) as Subject Matter Expert;
- Experienced in leading and/or setting up (inter)national networks and collaborations;
- Have a strong publishing track record in leading scientific journals and be a familiar “name” at conferences;
- Intrinsic motivation to mentor a growing team of scientists;
- Have excellent communication skills, both written and oral in Dutch and English.
