Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU), Germany, is inviting applications for an Academic Staff Member (m/f/d) in World Heritage Studies (Postdoctoral Researcher). The full-time position is offered for four years, with a salary at E13 level, and is based in Cottbus, Germany. The application deadline is 11 September 2026.
The position is based in the Department of Cultural Management within the Faculty of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Urban Planning. The successful candidate will teach on the English-taught Master’s programmes World Heritage Studies and Heritage Conservation and Site Management.
The role combines academic teaching with empirical research, research proposal development and participation in nationally and European-funded projects. It also provides at least one third of working time for independent advanced research towards a Habilitation or equivalent qualification.
The research role focuses on international frameworks, governance, negotiation and decision-making connected with UNESCO World Heritage and cultural and natural heritage. Relevant perspectives include governmentality studies, political economy and other critical approaches in social and cultural sciences.
Position Details
- Position: Academic Staff Member in World Heritage Studies (Postdoctoral Researcher)
- Official Reference Number: 134-26
- Institution: Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, Germany
- Department: Cultural Management
- Research Discipline(s): World Heritage Studies, Cultural Management, Heritage Studies, Social Sciences
- Location: Cottbus, Germany
- Job Type: Postdoctoral Researcher
- Contract Duration: 4 years
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Salary: E13
- Required Qualification: Relevant Master’s degree, Diplom or equivalent, plus a relevant doctoral degree
Research Areas
The position covers several connected areas of World Heritage research and cultural management:
- UNESCO World Heritage
- Cultural and natural heritage
- Heritage governance
- Governance, negotiation and decision-making
- Empirical research
- Cultural Management
- Critical social and cultural science approaches
- Qualitative and quantitative research methods
Eligibility/Qualifications
Required qualifications include:
- A completed Master’s degree, Diplom or equivalent qualification in a relevant field.
- A relevant doctoral degree.
- Very good command of English, including experience teaching in English.
- Good German language skills or willingness to acquire them.
- Experience in securing external funding for research projects.
- Experience conducting empirical research projects.
- Sound knowledge of international frameworks relating to UNESCO World Heritage and heritage governance.
- Knowledge of governance, negotiation and decision-making processes in cultural and natural heritage.
- Understanding of relevant critical approaches, such as governmentality studies or political economy.
Experience with research designs combining qualitative and quantitative methods is desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate independent research ability, flexibility and strong teamwork and communication skills.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will contribute to teaching and research activities within the Chair of Cultural Management. Main responsibilities include:
- Teaching lectures and seminars within the relevant Master’s programmes.
- Preparing and assessing oral and written examinations.
- Supervising student projects and Master’s theses.
- Conducting academic research within the Chair’s research areas.
- Developing research proposals and contributing to externally funded projects.
- Publishing and presenting research findings through academic outputs, reports and presentations.
Salary and Benefits
The position provides several academic and employment benefits associated with the four-year appointment.
- E13 salary classification.
- Dedicated conditions for academic qualifications and research.
- Opportunity for a research stay abroad for international networking and further training.
- 30 days of annual leave.
- Flexible and family-friendly working hours.
- Option for remote work.
- Job ticket for public transportation.
- Professional development and health programmes.
Application Process
Applicants should submit their application documents as one PDF file by email only by 11 September 2026 to the Dean of the Faculty of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Urban Planning.
Required application documents:
- Submit the application documents as one PDF file.
- Reference number 134-26 clearly quoted in the application.
Email: fakultaet6@b-tu.de
Further information about the position is available from Prof. Dr Jens Adam at adamj@b-tu.de or +49 355 69-3065.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: 11 September 2026
- Expected Start Date: As soon as possible
Eligible candidates should review the official vacancy information through the Apply Now button and submit the complete PDF application before the deadline.
Related Academic Opportunities
- Cultural Studies academic positions
- Ancient Studies research jobs
- Germany academic research positions
- Cultural Heritage academic jobs
- Worldwide postdoctoral research opportunities
FAQs
What is the World Heritage Studies postdoc?
It is a full-time Academic Staff Member position combining teaching, research and research project work.
Which university offers this position?
Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg in Germany offers the position.
What qualifications are required?
Applicants need a relevant Master’s degree and a relevant doctoral degree.
What is the salary?
The position offers an E13 salary.
How long is the contract?
The position is offered for four years.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is 11 September 2026.
Institutional Overview
Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU) is a technical university in Germany with a strong focus on research, teaching and practical solutions. Located in Lusatia, BTU works across six faculties covering fields including architecture, engineering, natural sciences, social sciences and information technology. Its research profile addresses major areas such as global change, transformation processes, energy transition, health and life sciences, artificial intelligence and sensor technology. The university also supports interdisciplinary research, knowledge transfer and collaboration with academic and industry partners. BTU offers Bachelor’s, Master’s and PhD programmes, alongside internationally focused study opportunities. Its Faculty of Architecture, Civil Engineering and Urban Planning provides the academic setting for research and teaching in World Heritage Studies and Heritage Conservation.
Researchers interested in Heritage Studies, Cultural studies and postdoctoral research opportunities can explore similar academic positions through HigherJobz.
