Deadline: 28 March 2025
Funding: Full tuition + stipend (£19,237 per annum for three years)
This fully funded PhD programme explores the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on women’s online safety, focusing on responsible and ethical AI development at the Open University. The research will examine:
- AI’s role in online gender-based violence
- The effectiveness of AI-driven content moderation
- Ethical AI solutions for safer digital spaces
- Policy recommendations for responsible AI
Research Areas
Applicants may focus on:
- AI’s gendered impact – Analyzing AI’s role in online harassment and violence
- AI-driven moderation – Evaluating AI’s effectiveness in detecting harmful content
- Prevention of online violence – Investigating AI’s role in stopping abuse
- Intersectional analysis – Examining AI’s impact on diverse women’s groups
- Co-creative AI methodologies – Designing safer AI solutions with stakeholders
- Ethical AI guidelines – Developing policies for responsible AI deployment
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants should have:
- A Master’s degree in AI, Data Science, HCI, Software Engineering, or related fields
- Interest in gender studies and ethical AI development
- Research experience (qualitative and/or quantitative methods preferred)
- Familiarity with feminist or intersectional approaches (an asset)
- English proficiency (IELTS 6.5 overall, minimum 6.0 per section if applicable)
Funding & Benefits
- Full tuition fees covered
- Stipend: £19,237 per year (for three years)
- Research training grant for fieldwork, conferences, and expenses
- Access to a global research community in AI, gender studies, and digital ethics
Application Process
Submit the following by March 28, 2025 (09:00 GMT):
- Research Proposal (1,000–2,000 words)
- Cover Letter (explaining suitability)
- Completed Application Form
- Degree Certificates & Transcripts
- English Proficiency Certificate (if applicable)
Send all documents to: protecting-women-online@open.ac.uk
Selection Process
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for:
- Interview (includes a 10-minute presentation on their proposal + 45-minute Q&A)
- Conducted in person or via videoconference
For inquiries, email: protecting-women-online@open.ac.uk
For further details please see the university’s website.
