* SOP-014-25 Post-Doctoral Research Associate
Post-Doctoral Research Associate
We are seeking a highly motivated and hard-working Post-Doctoral Research Associate to join the Trust in Moral Machines team at the University of Kent. This role involves conducting cutting‑edge research at the intersection of moral psychology and AI ethics, contributing to a major programme of work on how humans understand, evaluate, and trust artificial intelligence (AI) systems that make moral decisions. The post is funded by a ERC/UKRI Grant led by Dr Jim Everett, and offers the opportunity to collaborate with Dr Edmond Awad (University of Exeter) and an international advisory board. The successful candidate will play a key role in several ongoing projects, including a new Citizen Science initiative designed to engage global participants in experimental studies on trust in AI. The research will employ diverse methodologies, including online and in‑person experiments, cross‑cultural studies, and will require advanced statistical analyses. This is an excellent opportunity for a researcher eager to develop an innovative and impactful programme of interdisciplinary work at the forefront of moral psychology and AI ethics.
As a post‑doctoral research Associate you can expect to be involved in:
* Designing and implementing experimental and survey‑based studies, including large‑scale cross‑cultural investigations and as outlined in the project proposal.
* Assisting in the development, finalisation, and analysis from the project’s ‘Citizen Science’ initiative.
* Conducting robust statistical analyses of complex datasets, using appropriate methods such as forced‑choice preference task analyses, multilevel modelling, and advanced regression techniques, ensuring transparency and reproducibility.
* Using and maintaining high standards of coding practice for data processing and analysis, preferably using R, including the creation of clear, reproducible analysis scripts and documentation.
* Contributing to the write‑up of research findings for publication in leading peer‑reviewed journals and for dissemination at national and international conferences.
What will you bring to the role?
* A doctorate or equivalent qualification/experience in psychology. Candidates with experiences in other aligned areas will be considered if they can demonstrate sufficient familiarity with psychology and display necessary quantitative skills.
* An excellent record of publications in quality peer‑reviewed journals, commensurate with stage of career.
* Familiarity with psychological research literatures on moral psychology, trust/impression formation, and (preferably) AI.
* Extensive experience with conducting advanced statistical analyses in R.
* Helping disseminate and share findings to the public in clear and engaging ways.
What we can offer in return:
As a member of our team, you can expect a friendly, open and collaborative working environment and support in your development and wellbeing. You'll enjoy a range of great staff benefits including:
* Hybrid working options allowing a flexible blend of office and home working (to be agreed in line with business needs).
* 43 days’ leave per year (personal leave, bank holidays and additional days allocated for the Christmas period, pro rata for part‑time staff).
* Excellent pension scheme with generous employer contributions.
* Corporate employee‑funded healthcare plan, in partnership with Benenden Health.
For more information about what you can look forward to if you join us, visit our dedicated webpage: Working at Kent.
Please see the links below to view the full job description and to apply for this post. For further information regarding the application process, please contact peopleserviceshr@kent.ac.uk quoting reference number SOP‑014‑25.
*Occasionally we may need to close a vacancy before the published deadline due to a high number of applications being received, therefore we strongly advise you to submit your application as soon as possible. (All vacancies will be open for at least one week.)
PLEASE NOTE: We prioritise applications from current University of Kent redeployees. We will let you know if this post is to be filled by a redeployee as, in this instance, your application will unfortunately not be taken forward.
We know applicants may use AI tools to help prepare job applications. For guidance on how to use AI responsibly and effectively, see: Using AI in your job application.
Applications must be made via the University’s online application system; CVs or details sent directly to the department or via email cannot be considered.
The University of Kent values diversity and equality at all levels.
Section School of Psychology Location Canterbury Salary £39,355 to £44,128 per annum Grade 7 Post Type Full Time Contract Type Fixed Term‑ Ends 31/03/2029 Release Date Friday 24 October 2025 Closing Date 23.59 hours GMT on Friday 21 November 2025 (unless otherwise stated*) Reference SOP-014-25.
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