We are delighted to announce that Cecile secured a LINAS award for her research project, which investigates the multi-fold challenges posed by algorithmic decision-making in the realm of online content moderation. It focuses particularly on the development of technological and regulatory solutions that prioritize the preservation of fundamental rights and freedoms whilst allowing for effective and accurate moderation of user-generated content (UGC).

Algorithmic-powered content moderation tools are often deemed less likely than their human counterparts to understand and interpret context and to computerize legal requirements, and, therefore less likely to make consistent decisions accordingly. Moreover, the scale at which algorithms moderate content can usher systematic and gross violations of free speech, due process and other rights. Here lies an overall tension between the need to foster clean online spaces, to preserve online service providers’ (OSP) interests, and to foster human rights. This research project is critical in fostering a delicate equilibrium between algorithmic innovation and the development and enforcement of regulatory safeguards for a human-centric approach, as one of the primary challenges faced in OSP governance today is the tension between the rights of the various parties and the interests of the platforms.

 Cecile “Having completed an LLM in International Human Rights Law at the University of Galway and the Law and Technology LLM here at Queen’s, I am thrilled to further my academic education and pursue research at a doctoral level on a project which intertwines both areas of expertise. LINAS shows to be the most enriching space to conduct research on the convergence and interplay between algorithmic solutions, their utilization in public decision-making processes, and the ensuing social, societal and political implications. The collaborative dimension of the programme provides opportunities to develop open-minded and innovative ways of conducting doctoral research necessary to bring meaningful contribution to the field.”

Professor Giancarlo Frosio said, “Cécile's doctoral project stands at the cutting edge of legal and technological research. This project promises to offer innovative solutions to the pressing issues surrounding online content moderation. This research is expected to contribute significantly to the field, enhancing our understanding and implementation of algorithmic systems in a manner that upholds and promotes fundamental human rights. We are thrilled to support Cécile in this ambitious project and eagerly anticipate the impact her work will have on the digital public square and beyond."

Cecile will be supervised by Professor Giancarlo Frosio (School of Law) and Dr Oluwafemi Olukoya (School of EEECS).

We welcome PhD applications from prospective students. Further details on how to apply can be found at https://www.qub.ac.uk/schools/SchoolofLaw/study/postgraduate-research/