PhD Understanding the Paradoxical Effects of AI on Organisational Performance

The Faculty of Economics and Business offers an inspiring study and working environment for students and employees. International accreditation enables the Faculty to assess performance against the highest international standards. It also creates an exciting environment of continuous improvement. FEB's programmes, academic staff and research do well on various excellence ranking lists.

FEBRI, the graduate school and research institute of the Faculty of Economics and Business, in cooperation with Macquerie University, Australia, has available one PhD position for the project Understanding the Paradoxical Effects of AI on Organisational Performance.

What are you going to do?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) promises transformative gains for organizations. Yet, evidence shows its effects on performance are paradoxical: while AI can enhance efficiency and productivity, it may also undermine decision quality, legitimacy, and innovation. This research aims to gain insight into the drivers, use, and consequences of AI on organizational performance, and to develop and empirically test a framework that investigates these (potentially) contradictory outcomes. The research will, in particular, be directed at explaining the configurations (task risk/structure, performance-goal coopetition) and contextual drivers (industry, decision frame, governance) that determine outcomes. By integrating paradox theory, innovation management, and AI governance, the project aims to generate insights into how AI can foster productivity and trust while avoiding risks of deskilling, homogenisation, and excessive risk aversion.

The ideal candidate has:

• Demonstrated understanding of, and strong interest in, the management, governance, and organizational implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• Willingness and ability to work effectively in hybrid research environments that combine virtual collaboration with co-located, cross-institutional teamwork.
• Excellent communication skills and a proactive attitude toward managing research activities, coordinating with supervisors, and engaging with stakeholders across institutions.

Prior academic research experience (e.g., through a Master’s thesis or research assistantship) is considered a strong advantage, particularly in fields related to innovation management, digital transformation, or organizational studies.

Applicants must not already:

• Hold a doctoral degree; or be matriculated for a doctoral degree at the Partner University, Macquarie University, or another institution.

For Macquarie, also see the English language requirements, and graduate research scholarship eligibility criteria.

• 232 vacation hours per year, based on a 38-hour workweek (1.0 FTE). You can also work more or fewer hours in exchange for more or fewer free hours. For example, with a 40-hour workweek, you save 96 extra free hours, and with a 36-hour workweek, you lose 96 hours.
• End-of-year bonus of 8.3% and 8% holiday allowance.
• Extensive opportunities for personal and professional development.

At the University of Groningen (UG), researchers from all fields of academia and technology are working on academic challenges and societal questions. Lecturers prepare their students for meaningful careers within or outside the academic world. Interdisciplinary research and teaching, sharing of knowledge, collaboration with businesses, government institutions, and societal organizations are aspects that are of the utmost importance to this European top university. The UG aims to be an open academic community with an inclusive and safe working climate that invites you to add your value.

Shaping a better future together – your career starts at FEB The Faculty of Economics and Business (FEB) at the University of Groningen is a vibrant academic community with a clear mission: to develop knowledge that matters. With students and staff from over 100 countries, we foster an international working and learning environment where societal impact, world-class research, and innovation are at the core. At FEB, you’ll join committed colleagues who inspire and challenge one another. Whether you're a researcher, lecturer, or support professional, your skills and ambition will contribute to educating tomorrow’s leaders and thinkers. We encourage personal development and provide plenty of room for initiative and growth. Ready to take the next step in your career? Explore our vacancies and become part of one of the Netherlands’ leading faculties.

At the University of Groningen The PhD position is embedded in the research programme Innovation & Organisation of FEB’s Research Institute.

The successful candidate will be supervised by Dr Thijs Broekhuizen (t.l.j.broekhuizen@rug.nl) and Prof. Babak Abedin (babak.abedin@mq.edu.au). The research involves cross-institutional research aimed at understanding the paradoxical effects of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on organisational performance. The doctoral project contributes to the universities’ shared strategic priorities of advancing responsible innovation, digital transformation, and ethical AI governance.

Do you have any questions or need more information?

Questions about the content of the job?
Rina Koning (Policy Officer): A.C.Koning@rug.nl

Questions about your application process?
Rina Koning (Policy Officer): A.C.Koning@rug.nl