The University of Twente in the Netherlands is looking to fill a couple of positions related to the social and ethical aspects of nanotechnologies as part of the NanoNed initiative.
The PhD student is expected to study the images of, and stories about, nanoscience and nanotechnology, and the imaging strategies of different actors while a two year post doc will be expected to do critical studies of risk studies and governance, referring to background issues like the organized irresponsibility of our risk society and the challenges of governance of new and emerging science and technology. More information can be obtained from prof. dr. Arie Rip, tel. [31] 053 – 489 3345.
So why are we posting job ads on TNTlog?
Ther are two reasons. Firstly, if nanotechnologies reach even a fraction of a percent of the potential that has been postulated, we will see major changes in almost every aspect of our existence. Whether these are positive or negative is beyond the control of the average nanoscientist, and it is therefore important to have professional and expert guidance on the social and ethical issues. Well-funded and guided programs such as this will help both science and business to cut through the hype and ill informed speculation that unfortunately characterises nanotechnologies.
Secondly, we have to disclose that the majority of Cientificas senior staff has spent substantial amounts of time in the Netherlands, and despite an overenthusiastic deployment of automated speed cameras, we can still heartily recommend it as a place to both live and study.