About the PhD Position
Freie Universität Berlin invites applications for a DFG-funded PhD in Sociology and Islamic Studies. The project focuses on Arabic journals. It is offered within the Department of History and Cultural Studies in Berlin, Germany.
This doctoral project focuses on analysing sociological conceptions in Arabic journals from 1885 to 1952. It contributes to ongoing research in History and Cultural Studies, addressing the evolution of sociological thought under colonial and postcolonial contexts. Prof. Dr Florian Zemmin supervises the position and is part of a larger research initiative funded by the German Research Foundation.
The role is funded for three years with a 75% part-time employment contract and offers an annual salary under Salary Group 13 TV-L FU. Research will involve critical textual analysis, historical contextualization, and interpretation of Arabic journal content during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The project provides structured doctoral training, international collaboration, and advanced research resources.
This opportunity is suitable for candidates with a background in Islamic Studies, Sociology, or related fields. It is particularly relevant for those aiming for academic, postdoctoral, or research careers in sociology, Middle Eastern studies, or historical social sciences.
Program Overview
- Position: Fully Funded PhD / Doctoral Researcher in Sociology in Arabic Journals
- Institution: Freie Universität Berlin, Germany
- Department: History and Cultural Studies
- Faculty: Institute of Islamic Studies
- Supervisor: Prof. Dr Florian Zemmin
- Location: Berlin, Germany
- Duration: 3 years (75% part-time)
- Start Date: Flexible / as soon as possible
- Funding: Gross annual salary under Salary Group 13 TV-L FU
- Employment Type: Part-time (75%)
- Number of Positions: 1
Research Focus
The project will explore:
- Sociological themes in Arabic journals between 1885 and 1952
- Colonial and postcolonial perspectives on social issues
- Historical textual analysis
- Workshop organisation and scholarly dissemination
- Regional focus: Arab-speaking countries, primarily Egypt and the Levant
- Analytical tools: qualitative content analysis, historical contextualization
Eligibility Criteria
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Islamic Studies or related discipline
- Strong academic background in sociology, history, or Middle Eastern studies
- Proficiency in English
- Ability to conduct independent research
Preferred Qualifications:
- Very good modern Arabic (C1)
- Experience with historical text analysis
- Knowledge of modern Arab societies and social sciences
- Academic publications or conference participation are a plus
Application Process
Applications must be submitted via email to Prof.Dr. Florian Zemmin (islamwissenschaft@geschkult.fu-berlin.de).
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter
- CV
- Academic transcripts
- Referee contact details
- Proof of English proficiency (if required)
- Publication list (if applicable)
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 02 March 2026
- Interviews: If applicable
- Expected Start Date: Flexible, 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: Freie Universität Berlin
- Official Notification: Job Advertisement PDF
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