PhD Researcher

Max Planck Institute for Political and Social Science

The Max Planck Institute for Political and Social Science in Göttingen conducts interdisciplinary research into pressing issues of social and political change, with a particular focus on conflict, inequality, the erosion of democracy and processes of social transformation.

At the Institute, the Research Group: “Teachers, Inequality and Collective Action“ is inviting applications for the position of Researcher (m/f/d) | TICA (Up to twelve months, expected start 1 September 2026)

The newly established research group “Teachers, Inequality and Collective Action” (TICA) led by Dr. Hania Sobhy, investigates how teachers' social, political and professional profiles shape their orientations toward inequality, educational transformation and collective action. The advertised Researcher position(s) is (are) designed to support advanced postdoctoral or doctoral research and collaboration on education, inequality and/or collective action.

Your tasks

• Conduct independent research aligned to TICA’s thematic focus toward a defined publication output to be submitted during the employment period;
• Present work in progress at research group seminars or events during the appointment period;
• Participate actively in the intellectual life of the research group and the Institute. Regular presence at the Institute is expected, and researchers are required to reside within commuting distance of Göttingen.

Your profile

• For doctoral candidates: Enrollment in a doctoral program in Political Science, Sociology, Education, or a closely related discipline;
• A research project in progress, relating to inequality or collective action in education, with a clearly defined argument, contribution to the field, and anticipated or contracted publication output;
• A strong record of, or clear trajectory toward, peer-reviewed publications; as appropriate to career stage;
• Excellent command of written and spoken English;
• Preference will be given to applicants working on the MENA region or on Germany, but research projects on other regions will be considered based on thematic fit.

Our offer

• A full-time (or part-time) position in a stimulating and internationally renowned research environment.
• Employment according to the collective wage agreement for the German public service (TVöD Bund, EG 13/EG 14 for researchers at the postdoctoral level and TVöD E13 (75%) for doctoral researchers), depending on qualifications and experience.
• Excellent opportunities for academic development, international networking, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Access to Institute resources, library facilities and research infrastructure.
• Initial assistance with finding housing in Göttingen and support towards relocation costs.