About the Program
The Max Planck Institute for the History of Science invites applications for a fully funded PhD in History and Philosophy of Science titled “Knowledge and Its Resources: Historical Reciprocities” under the International Max Planck Research School (IMPRS-KIR). This doctoral programme focuses on examining how knowledge is historically shaped by political systems, technologies, social interactions, material objects, and media, and how knowledge itself functions as a critical cultural resource. The research addresses global and long-term historical processes within HPSTM, drawing on interdisciplinary methodologies from history, STS, global studies, media studies, and digital humanities. The PhD duration is 3.5 years, based in Berlin, Germany, with an expected start date of September 2026. The programme offers a highly international research environment, strong interdisciplinary training, access to global archives, and collaboration with leading Berlin universities.
Program Details
- Position: Fully Funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Max Planck Institute for the History of Science
- Department/Faculty: International Max Planck Research School – Knowledge and Its Resources (IMPRS-KIR)
- Supervisor: IMPRS-KIR Principal Teaching Faculty
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Start Date (Anticipated): September 2026
- Duration: 3.5 years (extension of 6 months possible)
- Funding: Fully funded employment contract (2/3 E13 TVöD or TV-L)
- Working Hours: As per German public sector doctoral contracts
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant humanities or social science discipline
Where Did We Come From? Turn the Page and See
Research Focus / Area
- History and Philosophy of Science, Technology, and Medicine (HPSTM)
- Historical-political epistemology
- Science and Technology Studies (STS)
- Global and Regional Studies
- Media studies and digital humanities
- Environmental studies and archaeology
- Art history, literary studies, and philology
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant field
- Proficiency in English (minimum B2, preferably C1)
- Strong academic background and research proposal aligned with IMPRS-KIR themes
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in interdisciplinary or historical studies
- Ability to work with archival, textual, or digital sources
- Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the research topic
Key Features of the Program
- Structured doctoral training and coursework in collaboration with FU Berlin, HU Berlin, and TU Berlin
- International and interdisciplinary research environment
- Dedicated research budget for archival and conference travel
- Optional semester at international partner universities
- Training in digital humanities methods and academic skills
- Teaching opportunities and professional development support
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted online via the official IMPRS application portal only. Applications sent by email or post will not be accepted.
Required Documents:
- Cover letter with motivation statement (max. 1,000 words)
- PhD research proposal (max. 2,500 words, excluding bibliography)
- Curriculum vitae (1–2 pages)
- Master’s degree certificate or proof of completion
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English language proficiency (if required)
- Contact details of two academic referees
Important Dates
- Applications Open: December 2025
- Deadline: 15 January 2026 (23:59 CET)
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates only
Where to Apply
- University Website: Max Planck Institute for the History of Science
- Official Notification: click here
- Application Portal: IMPRS Online Application System
Learn about more PhD opportunities: HigherJobz
