Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming various sectors, and the legal field is no exception. As AI technologies evolve, they are increasingly being integrated into law enforcement, raising important ethical, legal, and operational questions. Understanding the implications of these changes is crucial for ensuring that AI is used responsibly, with justice and fairness at its core. For those interested in exploring these issues, Northumbria University offers an exciting new fellowship opportunity within their PROBabLE Futures Keystone Project.
About the Fellowship
Northumbria University’s Law School is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to join the PROBabLE Futures Project, a pioneering initiative funded by the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the Responsible AI UK Keystone project. The project aims to develop a framework to address uncertainty in the use of probabilistic AI systems in law enforcement, ensuring that AI innovations align with justice and responsibility.
This project brings together a multidisciplinary team of researchers, law enforcement agencies, third-sector partners, and commercial stakeholders. The successful candidate will work at the intersection of law and technology, focusing on how AI can be integrated into law enforcement while safeguarding the public interest.
Key Responsibilities
The postdoctoral fellow will undertake a variety of important research tasks, including:
- Mapping the AI law enforcement ecosystem and analyzing its ethical and legal challenges.
- Conducting comparative studies of law enforcement AI in different European jurisdictions.
- Researching historical lessons in law enforcement to inform future AI use.
- Collaborating with partners from law enforcement, academia, and industry.
- Contributing to the development of a robust project framework and producing high-quality research outputs.
- Engaging in public discussions and disseminating research findings through publications, conferences, and media.
Why This Fellowship Matters
As law enforcement agencies worldwide begin to adopt AI-driven technologies, the ethical and legal challenges that arise must be addressed proactively. These challenges include concerns about bias in AI systems, accountability, privacy, transparency, and the potential misuse of AI tools in policing. The PROBabLE Futures Project takes these concerns seriously and aims to establish a comprehensive framework that promotes the responsible use of AI while upholding principles of fairness and justice.
The fellowship offers a unique opportunity for those passionate about AI ethics, law, and governance to contribute to groundbreaking research with real-world impact. It is an ideal position for scholars interested in shaping the future of AI in law enforcement and ensuring that these technologies are used to promote justice rather than undermine it.
About Northumbria Law School
Northumbria Law School is one of the largest law schools in the UK, known for its innovative approach to legal education. With a strong focus on research excellence, it ranked fifth in the REF2021 for staff returned and seventh by research power. The Law School’s award-winning Student Law Office, which provides hands-on legal training, reflects its commitment to bridging the gap between theory and practice.
Join the Conversation
If you’re passionate about AI, law, and ethics, and are eager to contribute to research that can shape the future of law enforcement, consider applying for this postdoctoral research fellowship. The PROBabLE Futures Keystone Project at Northumbria University offers a platform to engage in meaningful, impactful research that will help shape policy and practice in the responsible use of AI.
For those interested in applying, or who would like more information, please contact Professor Marion Oswald at [email protected]. The closing date for applications is 4th October 2024.
This postdoctoral research fellowship represents an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront of responsible AI development in law enforcement. By joining the PROBabLE Futures Project, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking team working to ensure that AI innovations align with ethical and legal standards, ultimately shaping a future where AI serves justice and society in the most responsible way.