Faith and AI Faculty Fellowship - Notre Dame Institute for Ethics and the Common Good

University of Notre Dame; Notre-Dame; On-site; CAD 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A major academic institution is inviting applications for its Faculty Fellowship program focused on ethical frameworks related to powerful AI. This fellowship offers funding for research projects and supports a diverse cohort of scholars. Candidates should hold or be nearing the completion of a Ph.D. and have a strong research proposal related to the fellowship themes. Strong research platforms and interdisciplinary approaches are encouraged.

Benefits

Funding up to $80,000

Housing subsidy

Research allowance of $1,000

Private office space

Qualifications

• Must complete all Ph.D. requirements by May 1, 2026.
• Open to scholars from various academic disciplines.
• Postdocs and advanced graduate students within five years of degree may apply.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on ethical frameworks related to powerful AI.
• Produce a fellowship research proposal aligned with the Institute’s theme.
• Engage in public outreach related to the research proposal.

Skills

Research project related to love-based ethical frameworks

Interdisciplinary academic background

Education

Ph.D. or equivalent degree

Job description

Overview

The Notre Dame Institute for Ethics and the Common Good (ECG) invites applications for its 2026–27 Faculty Fellowship program. We are seeking five scholars to join a vibrant, interdisciplinary cohort dedicated to advancing research on faith-based ethical approaches to powerful AI. For futher explanation of this topic, including a list of potential research topics related to it, please see https://ethics.nd.edu/fellowships-and-grants/faith-and-ai-faculty-fellowships/.

In 2026-27, one Faculty Fellowship may be co-sponsored by the Liu Institute for Asia and Asian Studies. This fellowship will fund a project that connects with the topic above from a perspective in Asian studies. The program is open to U.S. and international scholars at any career stage, including tenured faculty and postdoctoral researchers.

Compensation and Benefits

• Faculty Fellows receive half their base salary per academic year (up to $80,000), a housing subsidy (for those who currently reside outside of the South Bend area), a research allowance of $1,000, and a private office at ECG.
• Fellows' home institutions provide the remainder of their salaries as well as all benefits, including health insurance.
• Postdocs are welcome to apply and receive a stipend of up to $80,000 paid directly to them (rather than to a home institution) and health insurance benefits.

Qualifications

Faculty Fellowships are open to scholars who are conducting a substantial research project related to love-based ethical frameworks. The program is open to scholars from all academic disciplines, including—but not limited to—philosophy, theology, psychology, sociology, political science, computer science, engineering, law, literature, and the arts. While most Faculty Fellows hold appointments at colleges or universities, the fellowship is also open to independent scholars, journalists, artists, and others whose work aligns with the theme. Postdoctoral scholars and advanced graduate students may apply if they will have completed all Ph.D. requirements by May 1, 2026, and are within five years of earning their degree. Applications from scholars based outside the U.S. and from a variety of faith and cultural traditions are welcome.

Application Instructions

Applications for Faculty Fellowships must be submitted through Interfolio and should include the following:

• Completed online application form
• Cover letter
• Curriculum vitae (no more than four pages, single-spaced)
• Proposal abstract (no more than 400 words)
• Fellowship research proposal (no more than six pages double-spaced; may include a bibliography; in the proposal, explain the project intended at ECG and how it aligns with the Institute’s theme, objectives, and work plan)
• Public-engagement proposal (no more than two pages, double-spaced)
• Two letters of reference addressing the strength of the project and fit with the theme and collegiality
• (Optional) Up to two pages of non-text materials supporting the research proposal

Proposals will be evaluated on potential impact, fit with the theme, and fit with the Institute’s mission.

Finalists will be asked to be available for a brief Zoom conversation with committee members during the final stage of the selection process.

EEO and Background

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement The University of Notre Dame seeks to attract, develop, and retain the highest quality faculty, staff and administration. The University is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or age in employment. Notre Dame prohibits discrimination against veterans or disabled individuals and complies with 41 CFR 60-741.5(a) and 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). We strongly encourage applications from candidates attracted to a university with a Catholic identity.

Background Check This appointment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Applicants will be asked to identify all felony convictions and/or pending felony charges. Felony convictions do not automatically bar employment; each case is examined individually. The full procedure can be viewed at https://facultyhandbook.nd.edu/?id=link-73597.