Call for Papers: UNESCO x ENS-PSL Advancing Research on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence 2026
UNESCO and ENS-PSL are inviting recent PhD graduates to submit research proposals on the ethics of artificial intelligence for their 2026 initiative. This opportunity is for researchers who have completed their PhD within the last five years and are looking to present their work at an academic event in Paris. The call for papers aims to promote new research and foster discussions on AI ethics.
Application Closing Date: October 30, 2026
Location: Paris, France
Programme Duration: One-day academic event on December 10, 2026
Stipend: Not specified
Minimum Qualification: PhD completed within the last 5 years
About the UNESCO x ENS-PSL Advancing Research on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence Initiative
This initiative is a call for papers focused on the ethics of artificial intelligence, guided by the UNESCO 2021 Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. The program seeks to highlight emerging research in this critical field. It encourages interdisciplinary exchange and aims to build stronger connections between academic study, public policy, and practical applications of AI.
The goal is to support and showcase the work of early-career researchers in AI ethics. Selected authors will have the chance to present their findings at a dedicated academic event. This event will provide a platform for scholars to share their insights and receive expert feedback.
About UNESCO and ENS-PSL
UNESCO is the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. It works to build peace through international cooperation in education, the sciences, culture, and communication. UNESCO promotes ethical frameworks for emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
ENS-PSL, specifically the AI and Society Institute at École normale supérieure, is a leading academic institution. It focuses on research and education in various fields, including the societal impacts of artificial intelligence. Their collaboration with UNESCO underscores a commitment to advancing responsible AI development and understanding.
Research Topics
Submissions for this call for papers can cover a wide range of topics related to AI ethics. These include, but are not limited to, the following areas:
- Multistakeholder and adaptive governance and collaboration.
- Fairness, accountability, and transparency in AI systems.
- The relationship between human rights and AI.
- Raising awareness and AI ethics literacy.
- The ethics of AI concerning youth, mental health, and general health.
- Social inclusion and AI.
- The role of culture and knowledge systems in AI ethics.
- AI ethics in relation to the environment, sustainability, and climate action.
- Gender equality and AI.
- Addressing the needs of vulnerable or underrepresented groups through AI ethics.
- Ethical dimensions of AI in public policy, research, and innovation.
- AI ethics and the implementation of Sustainable Development Goals.
- The ethics of AI in STEM and basic sciences.
- The ethics of AI and frontier technologies.
Eligibility
This call for papers is open to researchers who meet specific criteria. Applicants must have completed a PhD within the last five years. Their research must focus on issues related to the ethics of artificial intelligence.
Applications are welcomed from researchers across all relevant disciplines and geographic regions. The initiative particularly encourages interdisciplinary and cross-sectoral perspectives. Both theoretical and empirical contributions are welcome, as are comparative, interdisciplinary, and practice-oriented submissions. If a proposal is co-authored, both authors must meet the eligibility requirements.
Application Process
To apply, researchers are invited to submit an extended abstract. This abstract should be between 800 and 1,000 words, not including references. The abstract must clearly outline the proposed paper’s title, research question, and its relevance to the call. It should also detail the conceptual or theoretical framework, methodology (if applicable), and the principal findings or argument.
The abstract should explain the paper’s contribution to the field of AI ethics research and include three to five keywords. A separate author information page is also required. This page must contain the full name, institutional affiliation, country, email address, PhD details (title, institution, year of completion), and a short biography of no more than 150 words. Submissions must be in English and provided in Word or PDF format. For review purposes, the extended abstract should be anonymized.
What the Initiative Offers
Selected participants will gain valuable opportunities to advance their research and professional network. The primary benefit is the chance to present their work at a one-day academic event hosted by ENS in Paris. This event is scheduled for December 10, 2026.
The event will bring together emerging scholars, established researchers, and representatives from academic institutions. It provides a platform for thematic discussions and offers opportunities for expert feedback on research. This exposure can be instrumental in shaping future research directions and career development in AI ethics.
Programme Duration and Location
The academic event where selected papers will be presented will take place over one day. This event is scheduled for December 10, 2026. The host institution for this event is ENS in Paris, France.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for this call for papers, applicants must meet specific academic and professional criteria. The primary requirement is that applicants must have completed a PhD within the past five years. Their doctoral research must address issues related to the ethics of artificial intelligence.
Competencies Required
While specific competencies are not listed in the traditional sense for a call for papers, certain qualities are implicitly encouraged. Researchers should demonstrate strong analytical and critical thinking skills. The ability to articulate complex ideas clearly in writing is essential for the abstract submission.
An interdisciplinary approach and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives are highly valued. Applicants should also show a clear understanding of the relevance of their research to current debates in AI ethics and public policy.
Who Should Apply?
This opportunity is ideal for recent PhD graduates who are passionate about the ethical implications of artificial intelligence. It is suited for those who have conducted significant research in AI ethics and are eager to share their findings with a wider academic community. Researchers looking to connect with peers and experts in the field will find this event beneficial.
The initiative is particularly relevant for those whose work aligns with the UNESCO Recommendation on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence. It is a chance to contribute to ongoing discussions and policy development in this rapidly evolving area.
Required Documents
Applicants are required to prepare and submit specific documents for their application. The main submission is an extended abstract of 800-1,000 words, excluding references. This abstract should detail the paper’s title, research question, framework, methodology, findings, and contribution to AI ethics research.
Additionally, a separate author information page is needed. This page must include the applicant’s full name, institutional affiliation, country, email address, PhD completion details (title, institution, year), and a brief biography (up to 150 words). Submissions must be in English and in Word or PDF format. The abstract itself should not contain identifying author information.
How to Apply
Interested researchers should submit their application through the provided online form. Ensure that all required information, including the extended abstract and author details, is accurately entered. Prepare your documents in advance to meet the submission deadline.
Make sure to carefully review your abstract and author information for any errors before submitting. The application deadline is October 30, 2026.
Important Notes
Only selected candidates will be invited to present their research at the event in Paris. Late applications will not be considered due to the strict deadline. Applicants must ensure their research directly addresses the ethics of artificial intelligence and meets the eligibility criteria.
Submissions should be in English and adhere to the specified format and length requirements. The anonymization of the extended abstract is crucial for the review process.
Closing Date
The closing date for submitting proposals for the UNESCO x ENS-PSL Advancing Research on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence 2026 initiative is October 30, 2026. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their proposals well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.
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