Political Economy of Fintech Postdoc

In this project, we propose to theoretically and empirically analyze the emerging field of fintech from the political economy perspective/s. The rapidly expanding fintech sector is upending traditional business models, offers increasingly more diverse opportunities for consumers, and presents multiple challenges for policy-makers and regulators. Furthermore, different countries have adopted strikingly different approaches to fintech regulation. Interestingly, the phenomenon has not yet attracted much attention from political scientists and political economists.

The main objective of the project is to describe and explain the divergent approaches toward fintech regulation. As such, the project can be addressed using different theoretical and empirical/methodological approaches, including qualitative methods with in-depth studies of individual countries’ experiences as well as quantitative large-N tools.

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to define an independent research program with ample research funding, excellent administrative support, and a flexible work schedule, including teaching opportunities if interest is expressed.

Enquiries regarding this position should be addressed to dr. Vytautas Kuokštis by email vytautas.kuokstis@tspmi.vu.lt.

Essential requirements for the candidates:

• PhD degree in political science, economics, or a related discipline completed during the last 5 years (the 5-year period does not include the duration of a granted pregnancy, maternal or parental leave);
• Proficiency in English both written and oral. 

Advantageous requirements:

• Research interests in the field of fintech or political economy more broadly;
• Publications in international peer-reviewed journals;
• Experience in international research projects;
• Methodological skills (good knowledge of a specific method which could be either qualitative, quantitative, or a mixed approach). 

What we offer

• Conduct independent research on specific research questions of one’s own choosing and/or in collaboration with scholars at the Institute, especially those in the political economy research group;
• Flexible teaching arrangements: none required but teaching opportunities available if the candidate expresses interest (with additional remuneration);
• Generous research support (conferences, summer schools, etc.);
• Very supportive administrative staff;
• Work in Vilnius – a dynamic city with high quality and low cost of living, which has developed into a key fintech hub in Europe. 

How to apply

The application has to be sent to dr. Vytautas Kuokštis (vytautas.kuokstis@tspmi.vu.lt) and must include:

• Application form (https://www.tspmi.vu.lt/en/karjera/);
• Free-form description of life and scientific activities (CV);
• List of scientific publications (list up to 10 of your most important publications);
• Recommendations from two researchers.