Researcher in Philosophy of Science

The Department of Philosophy at Stockholm University is the largest in Sweden, with vibrant research groups in a wide range of philosophical disciplines. The department has significant strengths in philosophy of science. It hosts multiple research projects, for example about scientific modeling, final theory claims, and dark matter research. More generally, the department has a strong international profile: we frequently host internationally prominent colloquium speakers and other visitors, and we are involved in numerous international and national networks and research projects. In theoretical philosophy, examples include the department’s Centre for Logic, Language and Mind (CLLAM), the interdisciplinary Centre for Medieval Studies, as well as networks such as PLM, the Nordic Network for Philosophy of Physics, and the Scandinavian Logic Society.

For more information about us, please visit: the Department of Philosophy.

Project description

The Department of Philosophy is seeking applicants for a researcher position associated with the ERC-funded project DECIDE (PI: Siska De Baerdemaeker). The successful applicant will work on questions related to social epistemology, political philosophy of science, and values in science in context of collective decision-making about future scientific research priorities.

DECIDE centers around how scientists should make collective decisions about what future large-scale experiments to pursue, particularly within astronomy, astrophysics, and cosmology. In these fields, research is often conducted at a scale well beyond what one individual, or even one research lab can manage. Unsurprisingly, the cost of some instruments has skyrocketed to billions of euros. Since large experiments tend to require financial support from multiple government agencies over extended periods of time—often several decades—only a small number will be funded. Which experiments are conducted has a crucial influence on the future direction of science. The central research question of DECIDE is therefore: how do, and how should, scientists collectively decide what large-scale experiments to pursue?

DECIDE aims to develop a new framework for collective decision-making about the pursuit of large-scale experiments. DECIDE’s main case study is the US Astronomy Decadal Survey, one of the first and most replicated procedures for collective decision making about science funding. The project sits at the intersection of philosophy of experiment, social epistemology, and history and philosophy of post-World War II astronomy, astrophysics, and cosmology.

The DECIDE team consists of Siska De Baerdemaeker (PI) as well as two postdoctoral researchers and one PhD student.

Main responsibilities

The researcher will spearhead a work package on the collective decision-making procedures in scientific research priority setting. Together with the PI, they will investigate decision-making procedures in the US Astronomy Decadal Surveys and develop normative recommendations. They will have the opportunity to develop their own research line. Finally, they will help with organizing events as part of the DECIDE project.

There is a generous travel budget included in the position. In addition to research, there will be teaching opportunities throughout the duration of the position. 

Qualification requirements

Researchers are appointed primarily for purposes of research and must hold a Swedish doctoral degree or an equivalent degree from another country.

Assessment criteria

Candidates will be assessed based on the submitted materials and a potential interview. Selection among eligible candidates will be based on:

• Strong research background in social epistemology of science, political philosophy of science, or values and science
• Quality of the previous research
• Quality of the research proposal
• Relevance of the research proposal to the goals of the DECIDE project
• Ability to collaborate and effectively communicate research results
• Teaching competences in theoretical philosophy.

Previous experience in (history and philosophy of) astronomy, astrophysics and cosmology is not required, but may be considered an additional strength. Please note that there is no requirement to speak Swedish to hold this post.

About the employment

This is a full-time, indefinite-term position with a six-month trial period. However, funding for the position is only guaranteed for four years.

Start date 1 February 2027 or as per agreement.

We offer

With us, you will experience the dynamic interaction between higher education and research that makes Stockholm University an exciting and creative environment. You will work in an international environment and get favourable conditions. The university is located in the National City Park with good transport links to the city.

Stockholm University strives to be a workplace free from discrimination and with equal opportunities for all.

Contact

Further information about the position can be obtained from the recruiting researcher, Siska De Baerdemaeker, siska.debaerdemaeker@philosophy.su.se, or from the Head of Department, prof. Gunnar Björnsson, gbjorn@su.se.

Application

Apply for the position at Stockholm University’s recruitment system. Attach a personal letter and CV as well as the attachments requested in the application form. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the application is complete in accordance with the instructions in the job advertisement, and that it is submitted before the deadline.

The instructions for applicants are available at: How to apply for a position.

Stockholm University contributes to the development of sustainable democratic society through knowledge, enlightenment and the pursuit of truth.

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