About the Program
Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz invites applications for a fully funded PhD in Ancient History titled “Religious Separateness in Roman Urban Society: Practices and Effects (2nd century BCE – 3rd century CE)” at the Department of Ancient History and Cultural History of Graeco-Roman Antiquity. This doctoral position explores how religious communities and practices developed separately from civic society in Roman urban contexts, addressing key questions about religious diversity, social boundaries, and political regulation in the ancient Mediterranean world. The project forms part of the LOEWE-Center Dynamics of Religion (DynaRel) under the research theme “Politicization and Instrumentalization of Religious Difference.” The research is based in Mainz, Germany, with an expected start in April 2026. The post runs until December 2029 and offers strong interdisciplinary engagement across Ancient History, Religious Studies, Classics, and Cultural History, including theoretical and digital humanities approaches.
Program Details
- Position: Fully funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
- Department/Faculty: Department of Ancient History and Cultural History of Graeco-Roman Antiquity
- Supervisor: Not specified
- Location: Mainz, Germany
- Start Date (Anticipated): April 2026
- Duration: Fixed-term until 31 December 2029
- Funding: Salary according to EG 13 TV-L (German public sector pay scale)
- Working Hours: 25.35 hours per week
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline
Research Focus/Area
- Ancient History
- Religious History of the Roman Empire
- Judaism, Christianity, and minority religions in antiquity
- Religion and society in urban Roman contexts
- Cultural and social history of Graeco-Roman antiquity
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Ancient History, Classics, Religious Studies, Judaic Studies, Early Christian History, or History
Preferred Qualifications:
- Research experience in ancient historical or religious studies topics
- Strong academic record
- Knowledge of Latin and Ancient Greek
- Good command of German and English; additional Romance language desirable
- Interest in interdisciplinary and theoretically informed research
- Willingness to engage with digital humanities methods
Key Features of the Program
- Participation in the interdisciplinary LOEWE-Centre Dynamics of Religion
- Integration into a cross-university doctoral programme
- Opportunities for academic networking, conferences, and joint publications
- Training opportunities in digital humanities and social science methods
- Support for science communication and public engagement
- Structured mentoring and international research exposure
Application Process
How to Apply:
- Applications must be submitted via the Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz online application portal
Required Documents:
- Cover letter
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic certificates
- One publication or an excerpt from the Master’s thesis
Important Dates
- Applications Open: 20 January 2026
- Deadline: 16 February 2026
- Interview: TBA
Where to Apply
- University Website: Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz
- Official Notification: Click here
- Application Portal: Click here
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