About the Program
Friedrich Schiller University Jena is offering seven fully funded doctoral researcher positions within the Cluster of Excellence “Imaginamics: Practices and Dynamics of Social Imagining”, beginning on 1 February 2026. This interdisciplinary initiative explores how societies imagine, narrate, and project collective futures across cultural, political, historical, and social contexts.
The program provides a stimulating academic environment with structured training, close supervision, and collaborative opportunities. With research spanning fields such as sociology, history, cultural studies, communication, literature, and political sciences, candidates will contribute to advancing theoretical and empirical knowledge at the frontiers of the humanities and social sciences. These positions are ideal for motivated scholars eager to engage in international collaboration, interdisciplinary dialogue, and innovative approaches to understanding the dynamics of social imagining.
Program Details
- Position: Fully-funded PhD Position / Doctoral Researcher
- Institution: Friedrich Schiller University Jena
- Department/Faculty: Cluster of Excellence “Imaginamics”
- Supervisor: Assigned within the Cluster (varies by project)
- Location: Jena, Germany
- Start Date (Anticipated): February 2026
- Duration: Until December 2029 (approx. 4 years)
- Funding: Full funding, TV-L E13 scale (65% positions; 100% in computer science) with annual bonus
- Working Hours: Part-time (65%) or Full-time (100% for computer science)
- Required Degree/Diploma: Master’s degree or equivalent in humanities or social sciences
Research Focus/Area
- Sociology
- Cultural Studies
- History
- Literature
- Communication Sciences
- Political Sciences
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline
- Strong academic performance
- Good command of English (German at basic level is an advantage)
Preferred Qualifications:
- Demonstrated research experience in the humanities or social sciences
- Innovative research proposal aligned with the Cluster’s themes
- Ability to work in an interdisciplinary and collaborative environment
- Organised, open-minded, creative, and team-oriented personality
Key Features of the Program
- Structured doctoral training with regular colloquia and supervision
- Participation in working groups and research forums within the Cluster
- Opportunities for international collaboration and academic exchange
- Funding for conferences, training, and professional development
- Family-friendly environment with childcare and flexible arrangements
Application Process
How to Apply:
Submit applications via the official University of Jena job portal.
Required Documents:
- CV and academic transcripts
- Research proposal (aligned with Cluster focus)
- Motivation letter
- Proof of degree (Master’s or equivalent)
- Language proficiency evidence (English, optional German)
- References (if required)
Important Dates
- Applications Open: August 2025
- Deadline: 15 September 2025 (23:59 CET)
- Interviews (if applicable): Autumn 2025
- Start Date: February 2026
Where to Apply
- University Website: Friedrich Schiller University Jena
- Official Notification: University Job Posting
- Application Portal: Apply Here
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