We are planning to open fully funded 4-year PhD position(s) starting in 2026/2027 (University of Tartu · Information Systems Research Group), seeking ambitious, motivated candidates to explore the frontier of Responsible and Sustainable AI. To this end, we open the call for Expression of Interest.
This PhD program is ideal for those interested in:
🔹 Sustainable / Green AI & AI lifecycle sustainability
🔹 Organisational capability development for Sustainable AI
🔹 Responsible AI adoption & governance in organisational or public sector contexts
🔹 AI for trust, transparency, and organisational impact
Illustrative example topics include but are not limited to Sustainable / Green AI capability models, Green AI lifecycle & data ecosystem sustainability, Responsible GenAI adoption & governance, AI-enabled ESG reporting and impact assurance. Candidates, however, are welcome and are even encouraged to propose their own research angle within the scope of Responsible or Sustainable AI.
Who can apply?
- Backgrounds: Information Systems, Digital Government, Sustainability, Management, Computer Science, Public Administration, or related fields
- Experience with qualitative/quantitative research, mixed methods, or Design Science Research is a plus
- Strong motivation and interest can compensate for limited experience
📄 How to express interest? Send a brief note including:
- CV
- 1–2 page research idea
- Transcript of records
- (Optional) Writing sample
📬 Email: anastasija.nikiforova@ut.ee. Subject line: EOI — PhD in Responsible/Sustainable AI and Information Systems
Why express interest now?
- This is pre-application, not the formal call, but can strengthen your chances in a competitive pool (50+ applications per position).
- Selected candidates may receive guidance on refining research ideas and preparing a strong application aligned with the Information Systems focus.
🌟 Join us at the University of Tartu Institute of Computer Science, among the top 1% of globally cited universities, to shape the future of responsible, sustainable, and trustworthy AI.
Anastasija Nikiforova, PhD 