Postdoc in philosophy of science (or related domains) on knowledge security

Over the past two decades, the Dutch and European knowledge sectors have consistently emphasised international collaboration and open science. More recently they are confronted with the realities of escalating geopolitical competition. This has resulted in the National Knowledge Security Guidelines (2022) in The Netherlands and the EU Council Recommendation on Enhancing Research Security (2024) with the ambition to keep research collaboration “as open as possible [yet] as closed as necessary”. However, how such boundaries can and should be drawn, and their consequences for the idea of science and its practices within universities have not been really investigated.

The NWA funded project: Fostering the Resilience of the Dutch Knowledge Sector: Knowledge Security and Research in a Geopolitical Context (KNOWSEC) investigates the implications of knowledge security rationales, rules and regulations for science. It is a large-scale collaborative multidisciplinary project involving numerous Dutch universities as well as policy stakeholders.

We seek a postdoc working in philosophy of science or another science and technology related domain of philosophy to help identify and develop analytical perspectives, theories and methodological tools to examine current frameworks for knowledge security and their implications. In particular the tasks of the postdoc include:

1. delineation of different conceptualizations of main concepts such as “knowledge”, “openness”, “security” and their normative foundations;
2. exploration of implications and epistemological trade-offs of different conceptualizations for knowledge generation and scientific integrity and academic freedom;
3. examination of the risks conceptual drift or concept creep towards broader areas science.

These investigations should inform and guide other researchers, particular PhD students, in the project in the design of their empirical studies. Of particular interest for this project could be older distinctions such as applied vs pure science and the idea of dual use research, the potential impacts of closed boundaries and blocked academic exchange on collaboration and scientific integrity, and the impacts of securitization of knowledge production on academic freedom.

As part of the KNOWSEC project you will collaborate with other project members, particularly on the task of Developing Analytical Perspectives on Concepts and their Interrelations. The task team covers geopolitics and comparative political science, international law and human rights, philosophy of science and science and technology studies. For this position you should have a PhDin philosophy of science or other related philosophical field; on a topic preferably dealing with knowledge of scientific norms and practices across different disciplines with some knowledge of the ethics of security practices or at least a willingness to work on related ethical and epistemological issues related to security.

Information and application

Does this sound appealing? Please apply before 30 November 2026.

Your application must include:

• A motivation letter (maximum two pages A4), explaining your interest in this position, relevant experiences, and motivations to apply for this position.
• A curriculum vitae, including an overview of completed courses and grades. Candidates may additionally include publications, research experience, and contact details of up to three referees.

For additional information about the position, please contact Dr. Miles MacLeod (m.a.j.macleod@utwente.nl).

Screening is part of the selection procedure.

About the department

Primary duties will be on the project, but you will also be housed as a staff member in the
Philosophy Section at the University of Twente. The Philosophy section itself has over 30
members (faculty, postdocs, PhD candidates). It is a thoroughly international
group, with English as the main language. It specializes in the philosophical
and ethical study of science and technology, and its impact on people,
society, and the environment Wijsb. We run
frequent colloquia and other collective activities which you will be most
welcome to take part in.

For this project in particular we collaborate with
members of the KiTeS section specializing in science studies and higher
education policy KiTeS).

About the organisation

At the Faculty of Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences (BMS), we unite the worlds of people and technology to address today’s complex societal challenges. We are passionate about understanding human behaviour, fostering responsible innovation, and designing solutions that create societal value. Our educational programmes span disciplines such as Psychology, Business Administration, Public Administration, Communication Sciences, Philosophy, Educational Sciences, and Health Sciences. Through our bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Professional Learning & Development programmes, and interdisciplinary research themes – including Emerging Technologies & Societal Transformations, Resilience, Smart Industry, Learning, and Health – we empower students and researchers to make a positive societal impact.

At BMS, we combine critical thinking with practical action. From advancing sustainable mobility with innovations like the world’s most efficient hydrogen car to shaping policies that promote digital inclusion, our work contributes to a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable future. Whether it’s exploring how technology influences human behaviour or leveraging data and innovation to transform industries and communities, we ensure that technology serves people – and not the other way around.

As an employer, BMS offers a vibrant, inclusive, and entrepreneurial environment where you can thrive personally and professionally. Join us and become part of a forward-thinking community that equips you to shape the future – for yourself and society. With us, you will become part of a leading technical university with increasing, positive social impact.