Dr. Fabian Lütz’s work sits at the forefront of these debates, focusing on how law can respond to and shape the societal impacts of AI. An expert in AI regulation, gender equality, and non-discrimination, his research is driven by a clear objective: to ensure that emerging technologies advance, rather than undermine, fairness and human dignity.
Currently a postdoctoral fellow working with the Canada Research Chair in International and Comparative Artificial Intelligence Law at the University of Ottawa, under the supervision of Professor Céline Castets-Renard, Dr. Lütz conducts comparative research on AI regulation across Canada, the United States, and Europe. His work is structured around two main pillars: analyzing the implementation of regulatory frameworks – particularly the European AI Act and its equality dimensions; and assessing the societal impacts of AI systems, especially in relation to discrimination and the need for legal reform.
What distinguishes Dr. Lütz’s work is its strong connection to practice. With more than a decade of experience in public administration and private practice, including roles at the European Commission and with Equinet (the European Network of Equality Bodies), he brings a deeply informed, applied perspective to his research. He has also contributed to high-level international initiatives, most recently serving as an expert on Gender and AI for the United Nations CEDAW Committee.
Below, Dr. Lütz explains the influences of his current work, and offers some advice to current doctoral students.
What influences your work?
Fabian Lütz:My work is deeply influenced by my previous practical experience in both the private sector and, especially, public administration. I always try to keep in mind the constraints and challenges of real-world practice, which is often the subject of academic research. I therefore aim to conduct and present my research in a way that is both theoretically rigorous and practically relevant. In addition, my work draws on disciplines beyond law, including philosophy, sociology, economics, and the behavioural sciences. I regularly engage with interdisciplinary scholarship on technology, artificial intelligence, equality, and non-discrimination to gain broader and often illuminating perspectives.
Is there a publication you would like to share with our community?
F.L.: One of my earlier publications reflects an idea that remains central to my current work and a forthcoming co-authored book: identifying when biased, stereotypical, or discriminatory behaviour caused by AI systems crosses the legal threshold. In other words, when do AI-generated or AI-assisted decisions become legally relevant and subject to regulation?
- Lütz, F. “Gender equality and artificial intelligence in Europe: Addressing direct and indirect impacts of algorithms on gender-based discrimination.” ERA Forum 23, 33–52 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12027-022-00709-6
Do you have any advice for those completing their PhD?
F.L.: While there are many different approaches and everyone must find what works best for them, I would offer three suggestions. First, only a completed PhD is a real PhD. Despite the desire for perfection or to incorporate the latest developments, at some point it is essential to finalize the manuscript and submit it. Second, closely related to this, is motivation. I recommend clearly defining your motivation – both within and beyond your doctoral work – as this helps sustain progress and reach the final goal. Third, I encourage PhD candidates to resist over-reliance on AI systems in their research and to use such tools in accordance with applicable rules and standards. Taking pride in your own work can make the writing process more creative, meaningful, and ultimately more rewarding.
What are you currently reading?
F.L.: I am currently reading works by Hartmut Rosa (Situation und Konstellation), Tom Griffiths (The Laws of Thought), Bernhard Schlink (Gerechtigkeit), Carissa Véliz (Prophecy), David Oppenheimer (The Diversity Principle), Ibram X. Kendi (Chain of Ideas), and Mazarine M. Pingeot (Inappropriable: Ce que l’IA fait à l’humain).
What three words best describe you?
F.L.: Curiosity, perseverance, motivation.