Doctoral Researcher in Political Institutions and Conflict
Join an EU-funded Marie Skłodowska-Curie doctoral network investigating political violence and institutional dynamics in democracies.
Best for:Best for quantitative social science researchers with a strong background in political science, conflict studies, and empirical research methods.
Overview
The Max Planck Institute for Political and Social Science is inviting applications for a full-time Doctoral Researcher position within the Department of Political Institutions and Conflict. Affiliated with the Horizon MSCA-funded 'DIViNE' Doctoral Network, the successful candidate will examine the micro-foundations of public support for political violence and democratic erosion. The role involves conducting quantitative analysis, surveys, and fieldwork, as well as participating in network training modules and secondments. The position leads to a PhD degree defended at the University of Amsterdam and is based in Göttingen, Germany.
What you'll do
- Produce a doctoral thesis with the objective of obtaining a PhD degree from the University of Amsterdam.
- Conduct empirical research on the dynamics of support for violent movements using quantitative analysis, surveys, and interviews.
- Co-author academic publications with fellow project researchers and network members.
- Carry out field research and interviews in designated study locations.
- Contribute to administrative duties, including organizing workshops, conferences, and project events.
- Participate actively in DIViNE training network activities, research colloquia, workshops, and secondments.
Requirements
Degree required: Master's degree or equivalent in political science or a closely related discipline
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; excellent command of oral and written communication
Instruction: English
- Proficiency in social science research methods, including panel regression and causal inference
- Experience analyzing large administrative datasets, survey data, or text data using Stata, R, or similar programming languages
- Strong oral and written communication skills in English
- Demonstrated ability for independent critical analysis and creative thinking
- Capacity to work effectively both independently and within an international collaborative team
- Degree must be obtained by the start of employment
- Persons of any nationality are eligible to apply
Funding & terms
How to apply
Deadline: 2026-11-11
Submit your application online through the specified portal by the deadline. Ensure all required academic and personal documents are bundled and uploaded correctly, and be available for potential interviews in Göttingen.
- CV
- Cover letter
- Research statement
- BSc + MSc transcripts
- 2 reference letters
Contact
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