Dear Colleagues,
The Digital Technology for Democracy (DTD) Lab, based at the Karsh Institute of Democracy at the University of Virginia (UVA), invites applications for two-year postdoctoral fellowships beginning August 2026. The Lab brings together scholars from across disciplines and methodological traditions-from computer science and information systems, to political studies, public policy, sociology, environmental sciences, the arts, and more. We are building a transdisciplinary cohort that advances research on how digital technologies challenge and strengthen democratic institutions and practices across sectors and communities, locally and globally.
Fellows pursue their own research under the guidance of the Lab's faculty co-leads, who represent twelve schools across UVA, including Information Systems (
Prof. Steven L. Johnson). Each fellow plays an active role in the Lab's community by participating in seminars and workshops, collaborating with faculty and peers, and contributing to initiatives that connect scholars, technologists, policymakers, civil society, and creative practitioners. You can learn more about the lab here:
https://dtdlab.virginia.edu/Key details
• Appointment: Two one-year renewable terms, with an annual review in month nine
• Eligibility: PhD, SJD, or equivalent terminal degree in hand by the start date
• Support: Annual salary of $65,000 plus $5,000 in research funds, UVA benefits, computing and library resources
• Location: Charlottesville, Virginia
• International applicants: Welcome. The Lab will work with UVA's International Studies Office on visa sponsorship as needed
• Evaluation criteria: Research rigor, ability to collaborate and work efficiently, and commitment to shared values
Application timeline
• Apply by December 15, 2025
• Expected decisions by March 2026
• We will host a Zoom information session on Friday, November 14, 2025 • 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM EDT
How to apply
• Please submit materials through our application page (requisition R0077062): a statement of interest outlining your scholarly focus and proposed fellowship project, a CV, one sample of work, and names and contact information for three referees. Letters are requested only for candidates invited to interview.
Questions about the position: Laurent Dubois, Academic Director, Karsh Institute of Democracy,
lmd8s@virginia.eduQuestions about the application process: Jon Freeman, Recruiting Specialist,
jf2sw@virginia.eduWe would be glad to consider your application and look forward to the possibility of working with you.
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Ehsan Nouri
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Karsh Institute of Democracy, University of Virginia
722 Preston Ave #201, Charlottesville, VA 22902
ehsan@virginia.edu | enouri.ca
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