The postdoc position is part of the NWO research project “Empowering Human Intentions through Artificial Intelligence”, funded by the Netherlands Organization for Scientific Research, and led by Prof Jan Broersen (Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, Utrecht University) and Prof Henk Aarts (Department of Psychology, Utrecht University). In this project we explore how modern artificial intelligence can be used to enhance personal autonomy by monitoring people’s behaviour, learning their habits and providing reports on how some of them stand in the way of reaching predefined goals. Formats for a language in which such reports and goals could be stated, are studied in philosophical logic. This project aims (1) to provide a logic model for intention formation and realization; and (2) to empirically test (in laboratory and field research) how this model is supported by personalizing scaffolding knowledge to a human subject through modern machine learning techniques. The project thus is at the heart of the intersection of philosophy, AI and psychology.


In close collaboration with the two supervisors the Postdoc will execute the research activities, analyze the results and manage (publication) reports. The first year will mainly deal with the philosophical analysis of the problem, which will provide the intellectual and conceptual input for further years where more empirical research and computational engineering will be conducted. The project also includes Research Assistants, who will support the Postdoc in data collection and computational modeling, analysis and implementation.

• a PhD degree with an empirical and/or modeling background in human-centered AI, such as cognitive psychology, philosophy of mind and action, cognitive science, intelligent system modeling, or strong expertise on a specifically relevant topic (BDI knowledge representation, intelligent cognitive assistants, intelligent autonomous systems, reinforcement learning, etc.);
• the ability to connect basic and applied research;
• a keen interest in collaborating with external (non-academic) organizations;
• willingness to be involved in grant applications and fundraising;
• proficiency in academic English;
• the ability to work both independently and as part of an interdisciplinary team, with good organizational and communication skills.

We offer a temporary position (1.0 FTE), initially for a period of one year. In case of good performance and a positive evaluation, the contract will be extended for the remaining three years (four years in total). The gross salary starts -depending on previous qualifications and experience  - between € 3.491 and €3.746. (scale 10 according to the Collective Labour Agreement Dutch Universities) per month for a full-time employment. Salaries are supplemented with a holiday bonus of 8% and a year-end bonus of 8.3% per year. In addition, Utrecht University offers excellent secondary conditions, including an attractive retirement scheme, (partly paid) parental leave and flexible employment conditions (multiple choice model). More information about working at Utrecht University can be found here.

A better future for everyone. This ambition motivates our scientists in executing their leading research and inspiring teaching. At Utrecht University, the various disciplines collaborate intensively towards major societal themes. Our focus is on Dynamics of Youth, Institutions for Open Societies, Life Sciences and Sustainability.

The Faculty of Humanities has around 6,000 students and 900 staff members. It comprises four knowledge domains: Philosophy and Religious Studies, History and Art History, Media and Culture Studies, and Languages, Literature and Communication. With its research and education in these fields, the Faculty aims to contribute to a better understanding of the Netherlands and Europe in a rapidly changing social and cultural context. The enthusiastic and committed colleagues and the excellent amenities in the historical city center of Utrecht, where the Faculty is housed, contribute to an inspiring working environment.