Fully Funded PhD Scholarships at Kiel University – Apply by 17 June 2025

About Position/Job

The Johanna Mestorf Academy (JMA) at Kiel University, Germany, invites applications for four fully funded PhD scholarships in connection with the establishment of the ARCWorlds research building. ARCWorlds is a world-class interdisciplinary research hub focused on human-environment dynamics from the Late Stone Age (~12,000 BC) to the end of the pre-modern era. This opportunity offers structured doctoral training at the intersection of the Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Life Sciences.

Position/Job Details

Position: Doctoral Fellow (PhD Scholarship)
Institution: Kiel University
Department: Johanna Mestorf Academy (JMA)
Research Field: Archaeology, Anthropology, Environmental History
Location: Kiel, Germany
Number of Post: 4
Job Type: Full-time, Funded PhD
Start Date (Anticipated): As soon as possible
Working Hours: Full-time doctoral research
Salary Range: €1,900/month (scholarship grant)
Required Degree/Diploma: MA/MSc or equivalent

Research Area

Human-environment dynamics
Geoarchaeology and dendroarchaeology
Archaeobotany and archaeozoology
Physical anthropology and social archaeology
Migration and cultural transformation
Spatial, urban, and settlement archaeology

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

MA/MSc in archaeology, anthropology, environmental studies, or a related discipline
English language proficiency
Research interests aligned with ARCWorlds themes

Preferred Qualifications:

Experience in interdisciplinary research
Demonstrated academic excellence
Innovative research ideas fitting ARCWorlds themes:
- The World of Entangled Space
- The World of Built Spaces
- Worlds in Motion

Key Responsibilities

Conduct independent PhD research aligned with ARCWorlds
Collaborate across JMA and affiliated projects (ROOTS, CRC 1266)
Publish and present research outcomes
Engage in structured doctoral training and academic events
Contribute to the academic environment at Kiel University

Application Process

How to Apply

Submit a single PDF containing all required documents + a separate PDF of your Master’s thesis.

Required Documents:

Project proposal (max 4 pages incl. references)
Curriculum Vitae
MA/MSc thesis (PDF)
Academic credentials
Proof of English proficiency
Two letters of recommendation
Written confirmation from a potential supervisor (ROOTS or CRC 1266)

Email to:
📧 application@roots.uni-kiel.de
Subject: ARCWorlds PhD Application – [Your Name]

Note: Applicants must contact potential supervisors before applying to ensure thematic alignment with ARCWorlds.