Apply before 14/11/2025 (DD/MM/YYYY) 23:59 (Brussels Time)
* Faculty of Law and Criminology
* Department: RE23 - Criminologie, Strafrecht en Sociaal Recht
* Occupancy rate:100%
* Number of positions: 1
* Type of employment: Contract of limited duration
* Term of assignment: 31/12/2027
* Wage scale: WM1 to WM4 (master degree)
* Required diploma:Master
ABOUT GHENT UNIVERSITY
Ghent University is a world of its own. Employing more than 15,000 people, it is actively involved in education and research, management and administration, as well as technical and social service provision on a daily basis. It is one of the largest, most exciting employers in the area and offers great career opportunities. With its 11 faculties and more than 80 departments offering state-of-the-art study programs grounded in research in a wide range of academic fields, Ghent University is a logical choice for its staff and students.
UGent Crime Lab conducts research on the mathematical modeling and simulation of crime. This research group unites computational and quantitative criminology with data science and spatial analysis. We conduct fundamental and applied research to generate robust, actionable insights on crime and societal responses. Crime Lab has a sustained, peer‑reviewed record in spatial criminology and micro‑geography of crime, informing place‑based interventions; behavioral modeling of offenders' responses to policing and justice interventions; predictive and risk modeling for enforcement; and acquisition, integration, and analysis of sensitive multi‑agency justice data.
YOUR TASKS
UGent Crime Lab is looking for a full-time junior researcher with a quantitative background and knowledge of game theory. You will contribute to an interdisciplinary research project that investigates how criminal risk can be modeled and how deviant patterns can be detected in operational environments, such as ports. The project develops interpretable AI techniques that support law enforcement agencies in risk assessment and decision-making in situations where information is incomplete, uncertain, or strategically manipulated by criminal actors. In this way, game theory helps to understand how criminal actors adapt their tactics and how law enforcement agencies can anticipate this.
Specifically, the tasks will consist of:
* Analyzing strategic criminal behavior using game theory techniques to provide insight into possible responses by criminal actors and thus support decision-making by law enforcement agencies.
* Contributing to the development of hybrid models that combine expert knowledge with data-driven insights.
* Actively participating in consortium meetings, stakeholder interactions, and co-creation sessions.
* Contributing to the dissemination of research results, including through active participation in national and international conferences and co-authoring research publications in national and international scientific journals.
YOUR PROFILE
* You hold a Master's degree with relevant knowledge for this position (e.g., social sciences, criminology, experimental psychology, economics, statistical data analysis, statistics, applied mathematics), or you can convincingly demonstrate that you will have this degree in January 2026.
* You have knowledge of game theory and an interest in modeling strategic behavior.
* You have experience with a statistical software program.
* You work independently, but also function well within an interdisciplinary team.
* Experience with academic writing and presenting is recommended.
* An affinity with the field of criminology is an asset.
* Knowledge of English is required.
* Knowledge of Dutch is a plus.
WHAT WE CAN OFFER YOU
* We offer you a contract of definite duration until subject to project approval), with the possibility of an extension if additional funding is secured.
* The start date is expected at the earliest on
* Your remuneration will be determined by salary scale WM1 to WM4. Click here for more information about our salary scales.
* In addition, every Ghent University staff member can count on a number of benefits, such as a wide range of training and education opportunities, 36 days of vacation leave (on an annual basis for a full-time position), a bicycle allowance, eco vouchers, etc. A complete overview of our staff benefits.
INTERESTED?
Apply online through the e-recruitment system before the application deadline (see above). We do not accept late applications or applications that are not submitted through the online system.
Your application must include the following documents(in Dutch or English):
* In the 'Cover letter' field: a motivation letter (max. 2 pages) introducing yourself and explaining why you are a good fit for this position.
* In the 'CV' field: your CV.
* In the 'Diploma' field: a copy of the required diploma, or an interim document if the degree has not yet been obtained.
* In the 'Other documents' field – optional: proof of experience with behavioral modeling (e.g., a recent scientific publication).
Please note: each field has a maximum size limit of 10 MB.
Interviews will be scheduled on a rolling basis starting November, 15th. The final candidate will be selected by mid-December.
As Ghent University maintains an equal opportunities and diversity policy, everyone is encouraged to apply for this position.
MORE INFORMATION
For more information about this vacancy, please contact Prof. Christophe Vandeviver, / or Dr. Joke Geeraert ).
Do you have a question regarding the online application process? Please read the FAQ or contact us via or