PHILOSOPHY
Law, AI, and Society Research Group
Our research group investigates legal questions raised by artificial intelligence (AI) and AI-driven technological convergence. As AI transforms science, industry, and society, understanding its impacts—often diffuse, systemic, and large-scale—demands an interdisciplinary lens. We believe that meaningful engagement between law, computer science, the social sciences, and the humanities is essential to ensuring AI benefits society and that regulation is responsive to its real-world application contexts.
How We Work
In our group, we:
- Ground our interdisciplinary research in deep legal expertise. A strong command of legal research methods is a foundation for meaningful engagement across disciplines.
- Collaborate closely with technical experts. We seek to understand how AI systems function in practice, working alongside peers at the CZS Institute, within the Tübingen AI community, and beyond.
- Hold space for paradox. We explore tensions within and between law and technology, embracing complexity and allowing for multiple, even conflicting, perspectives.
- Seek the blind spots. We investigate where both legal and technological frameworks fall short in capturing AI’s societal effects—and look to the social sciences and humanities for deeper insight.
- Acknowledge that interdisciplinary work requires translation and care. It demands active “meta-work”—navigating differences in language, assumptions, and goals across fields.
- Value lived experience. We believe our personal histories, identities, and intersectional lives shape our ability to notice the overlooked impacts of AI.
- Strive to create an inclusive, safe, and supportive environment. We recognize the richness of our diverse, international, and multicultural setting—and are intentional about building a lab culture where everyone can thrive.
Mentorship Philosophy
As a mentor, I:
- Emphasize strong foundations. I believe solid methodological and theoretical grounding in your field is essential before venturing into interdisciplinary work.
- Hold research integrity as non-negotiable.
- Support diverse paths. There is no single way to be a scholar. I encourage experimentation, exploration, and the discovery of your own voice and style.
- Promote studying problems of pressing societal relevance.
- Encourage accountability—to oneself, to others. I steer towards scientific autonomy and alignment with roles beyond academia.
- Foster trust and openness. I aim to create a space where both strengths and vulnerabilities can be shared without fear.
- Encourage proactive thinking. Planning ahead, rather than reacting, helps us navigate the complexities of research life.
- Believe weak ties. Often, the most valuable insights and opportunities come not from our inner circles, but from the peripheries of our networks. I encourage you to be curious, open, and kind—you always meet twice.