HPI is recognized as one of the leading university institutes for computer science (www.hpi.de). Our goal is to strengthen Europe's digital sovereignty with excellent research and practice-oriented teaching in computer science. At HPI, we are convinced that excellence is created when knowledge from different disciplines is collaboratively combined to create responsible and pioneering solutions for the future.
In our research clusters "Systems," "Data and AI," "Foundations," "Digital Health," "Security," and "Business and Society" researchers from various disciplines work together on topics relevant to solving the challenges facing society. The Digital Engineering Faculty of the University of Potsdam and HPI offers a computer science engineering degree program that is unique in Germany.

In the course of its strong growth, the Hasso Plattner Institute is looking for the earliest possible start date for a

The position is temporary and full-time.

Compensation is based on the salary range of TVL-14, higher compensation may be considered in order to remain competitive and attract exceptionally qualified candidates.

Humboldt Professor Prof. Dr. Sandra Wachter, (MSc Oxon) – the Chair of the Department of Technology and Regulation at the Hasso Plattner Institute (HPI) – is currently seeking to fill a full time postdoctoral research position and is inviting applications from excellent candidates working at the intersection of law, policy, technology, and innovation. This is an exceptional opportunity for a highly motivated and talented individual to conduct cutting-edge and interdisciplinary research and contribute to publications in international and peer-reviewed journals and conferences. A clear commitment to teaching is just as important as the desire to contribute to knowledge transfer (e.g. interaction with policy makers, NGOs, and industry).

The post-holder will work on some of the following or similar areas:

The post-holder will report in the first instance to Prof. Dr. Sandra Wachter (HPI/Oxford). Additionally, the post will require collaboration with the Governance of Emerging Technologies (GET) research group at the Oxford Internet Institute at the University of Oxford, in particular with Prof. Brent Mittelstadt (Oxford), and Prof. Chris Russell (Oxford) as well as with other national and international researchers and stakeholders from government, civil society and industry.

This full-time position is available immediately for 36 months, with possibility of renewal thereafter. A later start date is also possible. The position is located at HPI in Potsdam and the candidate is expected to move to Germany to take up the position. Sponsorship for a work visa can be provided.

The Hasso Plattner Institute (HPI) is Germany’s center of excellence for digital engineering where world-renowned fundamental and cutting edge research meets knowledge transfer and entrepreneurship. HPI offers an engineering computer science program that is unique in Germany and particularly practice-oriented. The institute is located near Berlin, which offers a variety of educational opportunities, recreation, tourism, and culture.

Have we caught your interest? Then we look forward to receiving your application documents. The application should include a cover letter (max 3 pages) detailing your fit with each of the essential qualifications (see above), CV including a list of publications, and contact information for two referees. Please apply exclusively via our careers page by June 18, 2026. Online Interviews are planned for the week commencing 13th July 2026.

Contact HR Recruiting
Nicola Mertens
nicola.mertens@hpi.de

Hasso-Plattner-Institut für Digital Engineering gGmbH
Prof.-Dr.-Helmert-Str. 2-3
14482 Potsdam