7 Fully Funded PhD Positions in Inequality Research – University of Konstanz: Apply Now!

The Cluster of Excellence “The Politics of Inequality” at the University of Konstanz is inviting applications for seven fully funded doctoral (PhD) positions, starting 1 October 2026.

This prestigious research cluster focuses on understanding the political causes and consequences of inequality through interdisciplinary approaches, making it an outstanding opportunity for early-career researchers interested in inequality studies.

About “The Politics of Inequality” Cluster

The Cluster of Excellence “The Politics of Inequality” is a leading interdisciplinary research initiative examining how inequality emerges, persists, and shapes political systems, social structures, and public discourse.

The programme brings together scholars from diverse fields to explore topics such as:

• Political and economic inequality
• Social stratification and redistribution
• Public opinion and behavioural dynamics
• Communication and discourse on inequality
• Institutional and policy responses

Doctoral researchers will contribute to cutting-edge scholarship in a collaborative and international environment.

Position Details

• Number of Positions: 7 Doctoral (PhD) positions
• Start Date: 1 October 2026
• Funding: Fully funded for 4 years
• Contract Type: TV-L E13 (75%)
• Location: Konstanz, Germany

These positions offer both independent dissertation options and project-based PhD pathways, allowing candidates to align their research interests with ongoing cluster projects or develop their own innovative proposals.

What the Programme Offers

Successful applicants will benefit from:

• Fully funded 4-year employment contract under Germany’s TV-L E13 pay scale (75%)
• Access to a high-level international and interdisciplinary research environment
• Enrollment in the Graduate School of the Social and Behavioural Sciences
• Structured doctoral training, mentorship, and academic development
• Opportunities for conference participation, publication, and research collaboration
• State-of-the-art research infrastructure

In addition to academic excellence, the University of Konstanz offers an exceptional living and working environment.

Unique Location – Lake Constance

The university is located on the shores of Lake Constance, one of Central Europe’s most scenic regions.

Konstanz offers:

• High quality of life
• International community
• Proximity to Switzerland and Austria
• Strong academic infrastructure
• A vibrant research culture

This unique setting combines academic excellence with an outstanding living environment.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants should hold an excellent Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as:

• Political Science
• Sociology
• Economics
• Social and Behavioural Sciences
• Linguistics
• Related fields

Candidates should demonstrate:

• Strong academic performance
• Clear research interests related to inequality
• Analytical and methodological skills
• Motivation to work in an interdisciplinary research setting
• Proficiency in English (additional languages may be an asset depending on research focus)

Why Apply?

These PhD positions offer a rare opportunity to:

• Conduct high-impact research on one of the most pressing global challenges—inequality
• Join a prestigious Cluster of Excellence in Germany
• Work alongside internationally recognized scholars
• Develop independent research within a structured doctoral programme
• Contribute to innovative debates shaping policy and society

The interdisciplinary nature of the cluster allows doctoral candidates to engage with diverse theoretical and methodological perspectives while advancing their own academic careers.

Application Deadline

📅 15 April 2026

Prospective candidates are encouraged to prepare their applications early and ensure that all required documents are submitted before the deadline.

Final Note

The seven doctoral positions at the University of Konstanz’s Cluster of Excellence “The Politics of Inequality” represent an exceptional opportunity for aspiring researchers passionate about studying inequality from political, social, economic, and behavioural perspectives.

APPLY HERE

Interested candidates ready to contribute to transformative research in inequality are strongly encouraged to apply before 15 April 2026.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the scholarships. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.