PhD student in Computing Science with focus on AI Policy and Climate Risk Narratives

Umeå University is one of Sweden’s largest higher education institutions with over 37,000 students and about 4,700 employees. The University offers a diversity of high-quality education and world-leading research in several fields. Notably, the groundbreaking discovery of the CRISPR-Cas9 gene-editing tool, which was awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry, was made here. At Umeå University, everything is close. Our cohesive campuses make it easy to meet, work together and exchange knowledge, which promotes a dynamic and open culture.

The ongoing societal transformation and large green investments in northern Sweden create enormous opportunities and complex challenges. For Umeå University, conducting research about – and in the middle of – a society in transition is key. We also take pride in delivering education to enable regions to expand quickly and sustainably. In fact, the future is made here.

This position is a collaboration between two departments in different faculties: 

• The Department of Computing Science (Faculty of Science and Technology), where the PhD student will be part of the AI Policy Lab, an interdisciplinary research group focusing on the societal and governance implications of Artificial Intelligence. The lab has strong expertise in AI, simulations, and responsible technology design. 
• The Department of Informatics (Faculty of Social Sciences), which contributes perspectives on human-computer interaction, information systems, digital practices, and socio-technical change, with a focus on how digital technologies intersect with organizations, communication, and governance. 

By bridging these two environments, the project creates a unique interdisciplinary platform where technical expertise in AI and simulations will be combined with social science perspectives on policy processes, communication practices, and societal challenges. 

Both departments have a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, inclusive research environments, and impactful societal engagement. Our workplace consists of diverse teams representing different nationalities, backgrounds, and fields. As a doctoral candidate working across the two departments, you will benefit from career development support, opportunities for networking, administrative and technical support, as well as good employment conditions. 

More information about the departments is available at: 

This PhD project will explore how Artificial Intelligence, in particular AI-based simulations, data-driven modelling, and generative systems,  can support policymakers in addressing climate change by developing and testing human-centered climate risk scenarios and narratives. The aim is to investigate how computational and AI-driven tools can help design strategies that are both evidence-based and publicly accessible, bridging the gap between complex scientific knowledge and societal decision-making. 

Key aspects include: 

• Applying AI-based simulations, computational modelling, and/or data-driven analysis to assess the impact of different climate policy pathways. 
• Developing interactive AI-based narratives that communicate climate risks in ways that resonate with diverse audiences, using participatory human-centered methods. 
• Supporting policymakers in designing strategies that combine technical and scientific robustness with democratic accessibility. 
• Exploring ethical, social, and governance challenges related to the design, deployment, and responsible use of AI technologies in climate risk communication. 
• Developing and evaluating AI and simulation methods to model and communicate climate-related risks. 

The PhD student will work under joint supervision from Computing Science and Informatics, being embedded in the AI Policy Lab at the Department of Computing Science while also engaging with the research environments at the Department of Informatics. 

The project is led by Dr. Jason Tucker (AI Policy Lab), Dr. Pedro Sanches (Informatics), and Prof. Dr. Virginia Dignum (Computing Science).  

Admission requirements   

The general admission requirements for doctoral studies are a second- cycle level degree, or completed course requirements of at least 240 ECTS credits, of which at least 60 ECTS credits are at second-cycle level, or have an equivalent education from abroad, or equivalent qualifications.   

To be admitted to doctoral studies in the field of computer science, the applicant must have completed courses totaling at least 90 higher education credits in computer science, informatics, information science, or other subjects directly relevant to the specialization. 

It is a requirement that you have…  

• A background in Computing Science (e.g. AI, ML, simulations, data analysis), or equivalent 
• Demonstrated experience in interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral research. 
• Excellent oral and written English proficiency
• Experience in climate change research, science communication, participatory methods, or policy analysis.
• Experience working with stakeholders such as policymakers, NGOs, international organizations, or in participatory/engagement processes with citizens or communities.  

It is meritorious if you have…  

• Familiarity with ethical, legal, and societal debates around AI and digital technologies. 
• Familiarity or experience with developing interactive narratives using participatory methods 
• Experience writing scientific manuscripts or publishing in conferences/journals. 
• Oral and written Swedish proficiency 
•  

As a person, you are…  

• Able to work independently and to formulate and tackle research problems. 
• Good at working collaboratively across disciplinary and cultural boundaries. 
• Motivated by societal challenges and by translating research into practice. 

The position provides you with the opportunity to pursue PhD studies in Computing Science for four years, with the goal of achieving the degree of Doctor in Computing Science. While the position is mainly devoted to PhD studies (at least 80% of the time), it may include up to 20% department service (usually teaching). If so, the total time for the position is extended accordingly, resulting in a maximum of five years.  

The procedure for recruitment for the position is in accordance with the Higher Education Ordinance (chapter 12, 2§) and the decision regarding the position cannot be appealed.  

The expected starting date is 01-01-2026 or as otherwise agreed.  

Applications must be submitted electronically using the e-recruitment system of Umeå University.  

A complete application should contain the following documents:  

• A cover letter (max 2 pages) including: 
  • A description of your research background and experience relevant to this position. 
  • Your reasons for applying to this specific position. 
  • A brief description of your ideas and plans for the research project you wish to carry out as part of the doctoral position. 
  • NOTE: Applications without a cover letter, or with a generic letter not tailored to this position, will not be considered. 
• A curriculum vitae   
• 1-3 writing samples in English or Swedish, e.g. BSc or MSc thesis, academic publications or projects.  
• Copies of degree certificates, including documentation of completed academic courses and obtained grades   
• Documentation and description of other relevant experiences or competences.  

The application must be written in English or Swedish. Attached documents must be in pdf format. Applications must be submitted electronically using the e-recruitment system of Umeå University, and be received no later than 21-11-2025.   

The Department of Computing Science values gender diversity, and therefore particularly encourages women and those outside the gender binary to apply for the position.  

For additional information, please contact Dr Jason Tucker (jason.tucker@umu.se).