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- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research on moral psychology and digital minds at a leading university.
- Company: Join the University of Cambridge's innovative Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence.
- Benefits: Full-time position with dedicated funds for conference travel and workshops.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on understanding AI consciousness and ethics in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: PhD in Psychology or related field, with expertise in moral psychology and quantitative methods.
- Other info: No teaching duties; potential for interdisciplinary collaboration and career growth.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
This is an exciting opportunity to work within a research project on the moral psychology of digital minds, led by Dr Lucius Caviola, The Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence (CFI), with the Institute for Technology and Humanity (ITH) at the University of Cambridge. This full-time Postdoctoral Research Associate position is fixed term for 2 years, starting in May 2026.
The research programme investigates how people perceive and make moral judgments about social AI systems and so-called digital minds. Key research questions include:
- How do laypeople perceive AI consciousness?
- What factors influence whether people attribute moral status to AI systems?
- How do these perceptions affect moral decision-making and ethical attitudes toward AI?
- Are there individual or cross-cultural differences?
The postdoc will conduct empirical research using experimental methods to advance our understanding of the psychology underlying human responses to digital minds.
Responsibilities
The postdoc will conduct empirical research using experimental methods to advance our understanding of the psychology underlying human responses to digital minds.
Qualifications
Applicants should have completed (or be near completion of) a PhD in Psychology, Cognitive Science, or a related field, with expertise in moral psychology, social cognition, or related areas. A strong understanding of both the philosophy and psychology of AI consciousness, ethics, and digital minds is required. Proficiency in quantitative research methods, including advanced statistics and experimental psychology, as well as experience with research tools such as Qualtrics and R. We particularly welcome applicants with published work in academic journals on topics related to perceptions of AI consciousness and moral status.
Working arrangements
The postdoc will be based at the Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence (CFI), part of the Institute for Technology and Humanity at the University of Cambridge. There are no teaching duties, though teaching opportunities may arise. The project has funds dedicated to conference travel for the post holder and for workshops. CFI is a highly interdisciplinary research centre addressing the challenges and opportunities posed by artificial intelligence (AI). Based at the University of Cambridge, the Centre has close links with industry, policymakers, and many academic disciplines.
Application information
For information on how to apply, please see the Further Information document. Informal enquiries about the role are welcomed and should be directed to Dr Lucius Caviola on lmoc2@cam.ac.uk. For questions on the application process, please contact the School’s HR Team on sahhr@admin.cam.ac.uk. The closing date for applications is midnight (GMT) on Sunday 22 February 2026. Interviews are planned to take place in March 2026, subject to change.
Click the ‘Apply’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online. Please quote reference GO48724 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
Equality and contact
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.
Postdoctoral Research Associate In Digital Minds (Fixed Term) in Cambridge employer: Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence
Contact Detail:
Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postdoctoral Research Associate In Digital Minds (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your field, especially those connected to the Leverhulme Centre or similar projects. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that postdoc position.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by diving deep into the research topics mentioned in the job description. Brush up on moral psychology and AI consciousness so you can discuss your ideas confidently and show how you fit into the team.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your research skills! Be ready to talk about your experience with quantitative methods and tools like Qualtrics and R. Highlight any published work that relates to AI perceptions to make your application stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on the closing date and set reminders so you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity.
We think you need these skills to ace Postdoctoral Research Associate In Digital Minds (Fixed Term) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in moral psychology and AI consciousness. We want to see how your background aligns with the research questions we're tackling!
Show Off Your Research Skills: Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in quantitative research methods and any experience with tools like Qualtrics and R. We’re keen on seeing how you can contribute to our empirical research efforts.
Highlight Your Publications: If you've got published work related to perceptions of AI consciousness, make it stand out! This is a great way to demonstrate your expertise and passion for the field, which we really value.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember to apply through our recruitment system by clicking the ‘Apply’ button. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Leverhulme Centre for the Future of Intelligence
✨Know Your Research Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the research project on moral psychology and digital minds. Familiarise yourself with Dr Lucius Caviola's work and the key questions the project aims to address. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you engage in meaningful discussions during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Expertise
Be ready to discuss your PhD work and any published research related to AI consciousness and moral status. Highlight your proficiency in quantitative research methods and tools like Qualtrics and R. This is your chance to demonstrate how your background aligns perfectly with the role.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so prepare insightful questions about the project and its interdisciplinary nature. Ask about potential collaborations or how the research might influence real-world applications. This shows that you’re not just interested in the position, but also in contributing to the broader goals of the Centre.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since the role involves empirical research, be prepared to explain your methodologies clearly and concisely. Practising how you present your ideas can make a big difference. Consider doing mock interviews with peers to refine your delivery and boost your confidence.
