Research and Development Specialist

Mission The position aims to strengthen the EssentialTech Centre’s capacity to address the ethical and societal implications of science and technology, with a primary focus on the dual use of technology. Building on the work already conducted within the CROSS project “When Innovation Harms: Anticipating the Dual Use of Technology”, the person in this role will contribute to consolidating and finalising the project’s research outputs, including the report, awareness-raising and educational tools, and related academic publications. Beyond the completion of the project, the role will focus on translating research into concrete impact by developing strategies for dissemination, public engagement, education and uptake across academic, professional and broader societal networks. The position will also contribute to identifying opportunities for the continuation and expansion of the work, including the development of new projects, partnerships and funding proposals. As an experienced ethicist, the person in this role will also provide interdisciplinary expertise on ethical questions arising across the activities of the EssentialTech Centre, contributing to research, education, innovation and public engagement beyond the specific field of dual use. Main duties and responsibilities 1. Consolidation and completion of the Dual Use project Within the continuation of the CROSS project, responsibilities include: Review and finalise the State-of-the-Art report and related research outputs on dual use in science and technology. • Strengthen the ethical framework of the project, including questions of responsibility, risk, uncertainty, misuse and informed decision-making. • Review and refine the awareness-raising and educational materials developed for STEM researchers. • Contribute to the finalisation of the interactive tool/prototype, including case studies, dilemmas, guidance and educational content. • Identify emerging research questions and opportunities for further work on dual use and responsible innovation. • Contribute to academic publications resulting from the project. • Support the development of a framework for teaching dual-use issues within EPFL and other academic contexts. 2. Dissemination, communication and public engagement • Develop a dissemination and engagement strategy for the project’s findings, tools and recommendations. • Identify relevant academic, policy, technology, civil society and international networks for dissemination and uptake. • Adapt the research for non-specialist and public audiences. • Contribute to the design of a public-facing initiative based on the project, such as exhibitions, debates, workshops or interactive formats. • Support events, presentations and discussions on dual use and responsible technology. • Develop communication and awareness-raising materials for researchers, students, policymakers, practitioners and the general public. • Present and represent the work in relevant academic and external networks. 3. Continuation, partnerships and new activities • Identify opportunities to continue and expand the work beyond the CROSS project. • Contribute to the development of new research, education, outreach and public-engagement proposals. • Identify relevant funding opportunities, partners and interdisciplinary collaborations. • Develop collaborations across EPFL, UNIL and other academic institutions, as well as with international organisations, public institutions and civil society. • Explore how the work on dual use can inform broader activities on responsible technology, technological harms, vulnerability and societal impact. • Contribute to strengthening the EssentialTech Centre’s role in interdisciplinary reflection and action on the ethical implications of technology. 4. Ethics expertise and support to the EssentialTech Centre Beyond the Dual Use project, responsibilities include: • Provide ethical analysis and advice across research, innovation and educational activities of the Centre. • Support project teams in identifying ethical dilemmas, unintended consequences, risks, trade-offs and societal implications. • Contribute to frameworks and methodologies for responsible technology design, research and deployment. • Support interdisciplinary collaboration across engineering, sciences, social sciences, humanities and policy. • Contribute to research, publications, teaching, workshops and public engagement related to ethics and responsible innovation. • Support the Centre’s broader strategic work on ethics and responsible technology. • Contribute to other activities aligned with the EssentialTech Centre’s mission in education, research, innovation and societal impact. Profile PhD or equivalent advanced academic background in ethics, philosophy, applied ethics, science and technology studies, responsible innovation, technology governance or another closely related field. Demonstrated expertise in the ethical and societal implications of science and technology. An interdisciplinary academic profile and experience working with STEM researchers are strongly preferred. Knowledge of technology ethics, research ethics, responsible innovation, dual use, emerging technologies or related areas is an important asset. We offer At EPFL, we believe that people achieve great results when they feel supported, respected and enabled to succeed. By joining our community, you will help shape the future of society through education, research and innovation. We offer an inspiring, international and collaborative environment where your work has real impact and your ideas are valued. Combined with flexible ways of working and attractive employment conditions, we aim to create an environment where everyone can contribute, grow and make a difference. Beyond work, our campuses host a vibrant community and unique environment, enriched by initiatives promoting equality, inclusion, diversity, well-being and sustainability as well as an engaging program of cultural, sports and community activities throughout the year. Read about our employment conditions and employee benefits Informations Contract Start Date : 02/01/2027 Activity Rate Min : 20.00 Activity Rate Max : 80.00 Contract Type: CDD Duration: 6 months Reference: 2525