Postdoctoral Scholar in Computer Science

Tufts University

Overview

The Civic Studies program at the Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life and the Department of Computer Science at Tufts University, in partnership with the Center for Expanding Viewpoints in Higher Education (CEVIHE), seek to host a Postdoctoral Fellow whose research and teaching will focus on using artificial intelligence (AI) to help colleges and universities, other organizations, informal groups, or communities navigate intellectual diversity and debate.

The Fellow may develop AI applications, study the impact of existing AI tools, or conduct preliminary research that could lead to applications later, such as tools that combat echo chambers or teach individuals to hear alternative views. The appointment is for one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance, funding, and mutual agreement.

What You’ll Do

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis beginning April 13, 2026, and the position will remain open until filled. The hiring range for this position is $65,000–$75,000, commensurate with experience.

The Postdoctoral Fellow will co-teach or contribute to teaching two courses in areas related to AI and intellectual pluralism. These courses will introduce students to recent research, central debates, and technical challenges in this field and may be listed in Civic Studies and cross-listed in other departments.

The role also provides the opportunity to develop an independent research program while gaining teaching experience in a supportive academic environment.

The fellow will be encouraged to participate in Tisch College and Computer Science seminars, workshops, and collaborative research activities.

Fellowship Environment

The Postdoctoral Fellowship in Expanding Viewpoints is supported by CEVIHE, which aims to cultivate early-career scholars whose teaching and research broaden intellectual diversity and strengthen Tufts’ culture of open inquiry.

The fellow will:

  • Maintain an office at CEVIHE
  • Join a cohort of postdoctoral fellows across disciplines
  • Be supported by a dual-mentor structure (Computer Science + CEVIHE faculty mentor)
  • Work in person at least four days per week
  • Attend weekly lunch series and participate in Center events
  • Provide informal mentorship to undergraduates

Preferred start date: July 1, 2026 (negotiable)

What We’re Looking For

Applicants must hold a Ph.D. by the start of the appointment.

Ideal candidates will have a doctoral degree in a related field such as computer science or information science (e.g., human-AI interaction, social computing), with interest in both technical and civic dimensions of AI.

We welcome interdisciplinary backgrounds spanning technical, social scientific, and humanistic approaches. Strong candidates will combine understanding of AI systems with interest in democratic participation, intellectual pluralism, or collective decision-making.

Application Instructions

Applicants should submit:

  • Application letter
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Brief research statement
  • Teaching philosophy statement with proposed teaching contribution
  • At least two confidential letters of reference (submitted directly by authors)

Optional materials:

  • Teaching evaluations
  • Sample syllabi

Questions may be directed to:

Letters of reference should also be sent to these emails.

All offers are contingent on a background check.

About Tufts University

Tufts University, founded in 1852, prioritizes quality teaching, competitive research, and active citizenship locally and globally. The university is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and expects all employees to continuously develop skills for engaging with diverse communities.

Pay Range

  • Minimum: $65,000
  • Midpoint: $65,000
  • Maximum: $65,000

Salary is based on related experience, expertise, and internal equity. Most new hires can expect pay between minimum and midpoint.

Apply