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

📍 Location
Umeå, Västerbotten County
⏰ Job Type
Temporary position
📅 Posted
January 16, 2026
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Job Description

Project description
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. 
About the position 
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. 
PhD student in Computing Science with focus on AI Policy and Climate Risk Narratives

Job Description

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