→ Apply before 11/06/2023 (DD/MM/YYYY) 23:59 (Brussels Time) → Department: RE23 - Criminologie, Strafrecht en Sociaal Recht → Occupancy rate: part-time → Number of positions: 1 → Type of employment: Contract of limited duration → Term of assignment: Max. 2 jaar → Wage scale: WM1 to WM4 (master degree or doctoral decree) → Required diploma: Master or PhD
ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY
Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 8,000 people, it is actively involved in education and research, management and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on a daily basis. It is one of the largest, most exciting employers in the area and offers great career opportunities. With its 11 faculties and more than 80 departments offering state-of-the-art study programmes grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students.
YOUR TASKS
The European Research Council has awarded an ERC Consolidator Grant to Prof Dr Wim Hardyns of the Department of Criminology, Criminal Law and Social Law (Ghent University). ERC projects are known as the most prestigious research projects in Europe. The BIGDATPOL project will conduct research on big data and crime. As part of this project, we are recruiting a part-time scientific employee (m/f/x).
About the BIGDATPOL project
‘ Big data policing ' can be seen as an innovative information-driven policing strategy that uses advanced statistical methods to analyse historical data to predict where and when there is a high risk of new crime. In existing big data policing applications, algorithms are being developed with the aim of "learning" from past crime patterns to predict future trends and patterns. Big data policing is piquing the interest of many police forces in Europe. This research project, funded by the European Research Council (ERC), aims to develop an evidence-based big data policing model that will be tested in several European cities.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR
You hold a Master's degree or a thesis-based doctorate by preference in a relevant field within the social or exact sciences : criminology, safety sciences, sociology, security, statistics, mathematics, computer science, geography and related disciplines. Good study results throughout the entire educational trajectory are an asset.
A strong interest in scientific research in general, and the use of big data for crime prevention/ security applications in particular. You will conduct research with a focus on integrating social and policy, statistical-methodological and ethical-legal dimensions.
Clear scientific and communicative skills (e.g., critical thinking, scientific writing, presentation skills, project management, methodological skills).
A profound knowledge of the English language is a prerequisite, as the successful candidate will have to present research results at international conferences, as well publish research findings in high- quality international scientific journals and books.
Proficient knowledge of the Dutch language is a plus.
You work systematically and with an eye for detail.
You are a team player who can also work independently.
You are punctual and show a sense of responsibility.
You know how to organise your work flexibly and efficiently according to priorities.
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
You will be appointed as a part-time (postdoctoral) researcher for up to two years. Appointment rate to be considered according to degree and term of appointment.
You will be part of one of the most prestigious scientific projects, which will be focused on high-risk/high-gain research and will generate the necessary scientific impact.
The possibility to contribute to a societally highly relevant domain, and to make an impact for society.
The opportunity to build a national and international network, which also offers prospects for your future career.
Numerous opportunities for personal growth, illustrated by e.g., conference participation, “doctoral schools” courses on transferable skills, fieldwork in European police departments and cities, participation in the department's educational initiatives, and publication opportunities.
You will collaborate with other ambitious researchers and disciplines in the BIGDATPOL project.
In addition, you will also be part of a young and dynamic research team, which has an eye for social activities alongside the work.
A social, tolerant, and constructive working environment that offers many and diverse opportunities for personal development.
Your contract will start on 1/09/2023 at the earliest.
Your remuneration will be determined by salary scale WM1 to WM4 (if you hold a Master's degree) or salary scale PD1 to PD4 (if you hold a doctorate). Click here for more information about our salary scales.
All Ghent University staff members enjoy a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of holiday leave (on an annual basis for a full-time job) supplemented by annual fixed bridge days, bicycle allowance and eco vouchers. Click here for a complete overview of all the staff benefits (in Dutch).
INTERESTED?
Apply online through the e-recruitment system before the application deadline (see above). We do not accept late applications or applications that are not submitted through the online system.
Your application must include the following documents:
In the field ‘CV' : your CV and an overview of your study results (merged into one pdf file)
In the field ‘Cover letter' : your application letter in pdf format
In the field ‘Diploma' : a transcript of the required degree (if already in your possession). If you have a foreign diploma in a language other than our national languages (Dutch, French or German) or English, please add a translation in one of the mentioned languages.
In the field “other documents”: a reference letter, an overview of your study results, one own publication (this can also be the master's thesis)
Note that the maximum file size for each field is 10 MB.
As Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy, everyone is encouraged to apply for this position.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Wim Hardyns ([email protected], +32(0)9/264 84 78). Important: do NOT send your application by email, but apply online.
Do you have a question regarding the online application process? Please read our FAQ or contact helpdesk ([email protected] - tel. 09/264 98 98)