About the Program
The University of Cologne invites applications for a fully funded PhD in Environmental Anthropology titled “Future Conservation” at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities. This doctoral researcher position is embedded within MESH – Multidisciplinary Environmental Studies in the Humanities and the Collaborative Research Centre CRC TRR228 “Future Rural Africa”. The project focuses on social-ecological transformations in the Zambezi Floodplains of western Zambia, examining how conservation practices shape future-making processes in rural Africa.
Supervised by Professor Dr Franz Krause, the PhD combines ethnographic fieldwork, qualitative data analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration across anthropology and environmental humanities. The research duration runs until December 2029, is based in Cologne, Germany, with extended fieldwork in Zambia, and is expected to start in April 2026. The programme offers strong academic training, international collaboration, and career development within a globally recognised research environment.
Program Details
- Position: Doctoral Researcher (PhD Position)
- Institution: University of Cologne
- Department/Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Humanities
- Supervisor: Professor Dr Franz Krause
- Location: Cologne, Germany (with fieldwork in Zambia)
- Start Date (Anticipated): April 2026
- Duration: Until 31 December 2029
- Funding: Fully funded salaried PhD position (TV-L E13, German public sector pay scale)
- Working Hours: 27.88 hours per week (part-time)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
Research Focus/Area
- Environmental anthropology
- Social and cultural anthropology
- Future conservation practices
- Social-ecological transformations
- Rural Africa and future-making
- Ethnographic fieldwork methodologies
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Social and Cultural Anthropology or a related discipline
- Strong background in environmental anthropology
- Excellent command of English
- Valid driving licence
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience with ethnographic research methods
- Interest in interdisciplinary research and teamwork
- Willingness to conduct long-term fieldwork in South-Central Africa
- Willingness to learn the local language, Silozi
- Knowledge of German or willingness to learn German for professional communication
Key Features of the Program
- International and interdisciplinary research environment
- Long-term funded PhD position within a major research centre
- Extensive ethnographic fieldwork in Zambia (12–15 months)
- Advanced academic training and professional development
- Participation in conferences, workshops, and policy events
- Strong institutional support and an equal opportunities framework
Application Process
How to Apply:
Applications must be submitted online via the University of Cologne job portal.
Required Documents:
- Proof of required academic qualifications
- Application documents submitted without a photo
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 2 January 2026
- Deadline: 18 January 2026 (23:59, Europe/Berlin)
- Start Date: April 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: University of Cologne
- Official Notification: click here
- Application Portal: click here
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