The scientific institute “Baltic Studies Centre” (Riga, Latvia) is looking for a PhD student or a PhD degree holder to be employed in the EU “Horizon Europe” Framework Programme’s project Pathways towards a fair, inclusive and innovative Data Economy for Sustainable Food Systems (Data4Food2030) (Grant Agreement No. 101059473). The person will be employed full time (1.0 FTE) for a period of 42 months starting no later than March 1, 2023, with a gross salary (on top of that BSC will pay employer’s social contributions) of a) EUR 2350 per month (for PhD student); b) 3400 per month (for PhD holder).
DESCRIPTION OF THE Data4Food2030 PROJECT
The project aims to improve the data economy for food systems (DE4FS) by expanding its definition, mapping its development, reiterating the need for a robust monitoring system, and introducing business and governance models stemming from a dialogue with stakeholders. It sets out credible pathways contributing to innovative governance and sound decision making in policy for the green transition and a more competitive and sustainable food system in the EU. To address the lack of solid knowledge about the data economy in food systems, the Data4Food2030 project will develop knowledge about sustainable, fair, and inclusive DE4FS, its economic and non-economic value creation, and drivers and barriers. A Monitoring System will be developed to monitor the development and performance of DE4FS as well as its impact on the sustainability of food systems. Stakeholder mapping and involvement in the project, and a range of result-based communication outputs will support the digital transformation and its positive impacts on a broader group of citizens, communities, companies and other food system stakeholders. Data4Food2030 will examine the DE4FS governance and propose improved governance models, recommendations, and a roadmap towards a Data Space for Food Systems.
DESCRIPTION OF THE RESEARCH POSITION
Number of positions available: 1
Description of work: The selected applicant will be engaged in the following tasks of the Data4Food2030 project:
- mapping stakeholders of the EU food system, also considering gender and ethnic minorities, and explore their values, needs, interests and concerns related to the data economy;
- co-creation with stakeholders of visionary future scenarios of the data economy in the EU food system and effective pathways to realise them, taking into account ethical and legal gaps and challenges;
- organisation of iterative stakeholder feedback and monitoring on the project’s progress and outputs;
- identification of measures and development of recommendations to stimulate the uptake of innovations for an improved data economy for food systems;
- preparation of the project’s communication materials.
The employment contract will start no later than March 1, 2023, and last until August 31, 2026, with a possibility of further engagement in other BSC projects.
Requirements:
- The candidate must be either (i) a PhD student or (ii) a PhD holder.
- We are looking for candidates who have affinity with the project’s topic, are motivated to participate in an international and interdisciplinary project, are keen to learn and advance their research careers.
- An interest in food systems, digitalisation, stakeholder engagement will be viewed as an asset.
- The candidate should be fluent in English, have proven skills in public and scientific communication (including writing and presenting). Proficiency of Latvian language is optional.
- Track record of participation in research projects and preferably also authorship of scientific publications is expected.
- The candidate should be able to start the work no later than March 1, 2023.
- Applicants must have a work permit to work in Europe.
Requirements specific for the PhD students:
- The PhD student is expected to link his/her doctoral thesis with the research work in the Data4Food2030.
Benefits:
- Academic environment: We offer work in a professional, vibrant, friendly and international environment and a space to pursue one's scientific ideas and ambitions.
- Financial provision: The successful applicant will be employed for the period of 42 months with a gross salary (on top of that BSC will pay employer’s social contributions) of a) EUR 2350 per month (for a PhD student); b) EUR 3400 per month (for a PhD holder).
- Researcher training: The hired person will gain support and mentoring for her/his continuous involvement in project activities. Joint work with the Data4Food2030 project partners’ organisations will facilitate sharing of international research experience and interdisciplinary perspectives as well as promote networking and collaboration. The person will gain access to the knowledge pool of BSC’s national and international projects and research infrastructure and will be encouraged to become integrated into BSC’s international networks.
- Employment conditions: The position allows for a flexible work arrangement.
How to apply: Applications in English should consist of a motivation letter, a CV and a writing sample of an academic output (e.g. master or PhD thesis, journal article) should be sent by December 21, 2022 to info@bscresearch.lv. For more information about the DATA4FOOD2023 project and vacancy contact Prof. Tālis Tisenkopfs at talis.tisenkopfs@bscresearch.lv.
About BSC: Baltic Studies Centre (BSC) is a leading private non-profit research organisation in the field of social sciences in Latvia. Since establishment in 1991 BSC has carried out over 45 research projects including 18 EU Framework Programme projects. The areas of BSC expertise include sociology, sustainable agriculture, food supply chains, innovation networks, peri-urban agriculture, community development, public policy analysis, science and technology studies. BSC undertakes action-oriented research strategies and cooperates with producers’ organisations, policy makers, municipalities, SMEs, and other research and advisory organisations nationally and internationally. More information: http://www.bscresearch.lv