Integrative Research Institute on Transformations of Human-Environment Systems (IRI THESys) PhD Programme
Interdisciplinary PhD programme exploring human-environment dynamics with a focus on climate change and sustainability.
Best for:Best for early-career researchers with a Master’s in environmental sciences, geography, economics, or related fields, seeking interdisciplinary PhD training in human-environment systems and sustainability.
Overview
The IRI THESys PhD Programme at Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin offers a structured, interdisciplinary research environment investigating the interactions between human activities and environmental systems. Led by a consortium of leading research institutes, including PIK, IAMO, and IGB, this programme focuses on critical issues such as land-use practices, resource governance, food-fuel-fibre production, and urban-rural connections. Applicants engage in a flexible curriculum with modules for interdisciplinary collaboration, disciplinary specialization, cross-disciplinary exploration, and skill development. The programme emphasizes hybrid learning, international collaboration, and structured supervision, making it ideal for researchers passionate about sustainability and environmental transformations.
What you'll do
- Conduct original research within the scope of human-environment systems, focusing on climate change impacts and sustainability transformations.
- Participate in interdisciplinary lectures, seminars, and colloquia to develop cross-disciplinary research competencies.
- Engage in a methods laboratory to deepen disciplinary expertise and collaborate with peers on methodological development.
- Attend international guest lectures and summer schools to broaden global research perspectives.
- Develop soft skills and entrepreneurial competencies through workshops offered by the Humboldt Graduate School.
- Present research findings at bi-weekly THESys colloquia and contribute to academic discussions.
- Collaborate with postdocs and senior researchers to foster interdisciplinary knowledge exchange.
Requirements
Degree required: Master’s degree in agricultural sciences, earth and environmental sciences, ecology, economics, geography, philosophy, political science, social anthropology, or a related discipline with an excellent academic record.
Degree offered: PhD (Dr)
Language: English; C1 proficiency level required (no formal proof required).
Instruction: English
- Proven research experience in human-environment systems or related fields.
- Strong academic background in quantitative or qualitative research methods.
- Ability to work collaboratively in interdisciplinary teams.
- Fluency in English for research communication and documentation.
- Applicant must be enrolled at a university with a thesis topic aligned with IRI THESys research areas.
- Supervisor must be an IRI THESys member.
- Funding must be secured for a minimum of two years.
- No nationality or residency restrictions mentioned, but visa requirements apply for international applicants.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Applicants must contact the coordinator via email to submit their application. The application should include all required documents and confirm eligibility criteria, including supervisor affiliation and secured funding. Detailed application guidelines and required documents are available on the IRI THESys website.
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Research proposal aligned with IRI THESys research areas
- Transcripts of Master’s degree and academic records
- Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
- Letter of support from the IRI THESys supervisor
- Proof of secured funding for at least two years
Contact
Wiebke Hampel· THESys Graduate Programme Coordinator
https://www.iri-thesys.org/education/graduate-program/application/
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