Location: Institute of Criminology, Faculty of Law, Poljanski nasip 2, Ljubljana
Date: 18 October 2024

The Institute of Criminology at the Faculty of Law in Ljubljana is pleased to announce a vacancy for a PhD Assistant in the ERC-funded Sentrix project. This position is governed by the Rules on Scientific Research Titles of Researchers at our Institute.

Eligibility Criteria:

Applicants must meet the requirements for the scientific research title of Assistant with a Doctorate (03) as per Article 6 of the Rules.

Essential Qualifications:

  • PhD in criminology, law, behavioural economics, psychology, anthropology, sociology, or another relevant discipline.
  • Proven track record of published scientific research or active participation in international professional meetings.
  • Demonstrated ability for independent research.

Desired Competencies:

  • Strong communication and organisational skills.
  • Capability to work independently and collaboratively within teams.
  • High levels of responsibility, articulation, resourcefulness, initiative, creativity, precision, and independence.
  • Proficiency in English.

Project Details:

The successful candidate will join the ERC StG project led by Prof. Dr. Mojca Plesničar. The project “Sentencing architecture: building a decision-making matrix” (Sentrix) will introduce a fresh perspective on sentencing using choice architecture. It will explore various factors influencing sentencing, including judicial discretion and procedural nuances, using a multidisciplinary approach that spans behavioural economics, psychology, sociology, and anthropology. The goal of the project is to enhance our understanding of how sentencing decisions are made. Existing research, workshops, courtroom observations, experiments and simulations will be used to build and test new models of how sentencing works. The project will unify fragmented research, employ innovative visualisation and simulation tools, and offer deeper insights into sentencing decisions, aiming to enhance transparency in sentencing and contribute to a fairer justice system.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct scientific research and engage in professional activities within the Sentrix project.
  • Participate in and contribute to other research projects at the Institute.
  • Disseminate research findings through publications and presentations at both national and international platforms.
  • Engage in professional and scientific development through various educational activities.
  • Ensure personal safety and health at work and undertake other tasks as required by the Director.

Preference Criteria:

  • Relevant field knowledge.
  • Experience with qualitative and/or quantitative research methods in social sciences.
  • Track record of working in multidisciplinary teams and/or research or NGO settings.
  • Publications in reputable scientific journals.

Opportunities Offered:

  • Engage in a pioneering ERC project.
  • Work within a multidisciplinary team.
  • Opportunities for long-term collaboration and training abroad.
  • Flexible working hours in a supportive team environment.

Terms of Employment:

  • Full-time contract, 40 hours per week for the duration of the Sentrix project (five years), from 1 January 2025 to 31 December 2029.
  • Initial four-month probationary period.
  • Potential for a permanent contract after the end of the project.

Application Process:

Applications should include a CV, bibliography, motivation letter (max 2 pages), a representative scientific work (web link if available online), proof of educational qualifications, and supporting documents required for the scientific title relevant to the post. Submit applications in writing or by email to inst.crim@pf.uni-lj.si by 10 November 2024. Further details are available on the Institute’s website: https://inst-krim.si/ or from the project manager at mojca.plesnicar@pf.uni-lj.si

Selection Process:

Candidates will be shortlisted based on the submitted documents and invited for a personal interview. All applicants will be notified of their status by 16 December 2024.

For further information, contact Špela Velikonja at inst.crim@pf.unilj.si or by phone 00 386 1 4203 242 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on weekdays.

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