Prestigious Humboldt University of Berlin 3 Year Postdoctoral Fellowship: Call for Political Science Researchers to Apply ·Unknown

Humboldt University of Berlin has announced applications for a three-year Postdoctoral Researcher position under the DEMO-AIM project, a major initiative funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). Applications close on 15 August 2026.

Early-career researchers interested in democracy, artificial intelligence, and political behavior now have an exciting opportunity to join one of Germany’s leading research institutions.

The position offers scholars the opportunity to work within the internationally renowned Cluster of Excellence “Contestations of the Liberal Script (SCRIPTS)”, contributing to cutting-edge research that explores how artificial intelligence can support democratic resilience through innovative memorial interventions.

Advancing Research on Democracy and Artificial Intelligence

As democratic societies navigate increasing political polarization, misinformation, and digital transformation, researchers are seeking new approaches to strengthen democratic institutions and civic engagement.

The DEMO-AIM project investigates how AI-mediated memorial interventions can promote democratic resilience by examining the ways technology influences political attitudes, historical memory, and democratic values.

This interdisciplinary research combines political science with advanced data analysis and experimental methods, placing the successful postdoctoral researcher at the forefront of one of Europe’s most innovative research initiatives.

Join an International Research Environment

The successful candidate will become part of the SCRIPTS Cluster of Excellence, an internationally recognized research consortium dedicated to studying the evolution, challenges, and future of liberal democracy.

Researchers within the cluster collaborate across disciplines, bringing together expertise in political science, sociology, law, history, economics, philosophy, and related fields. This collaborative environment provides outstanding opportunities for interdisciplinary research, international networking, and academic development.

The position is supervised by leading scholars:

• Professor Heike Klüver
• Professor Macartan Humphreys
• Professor Johannes Giesecke

Working alongside internationally respected researchers offers the successful candidate valuable mentorship while contributing to globally significant scholarship.

Research Responsibilities

The postdoctoral researcher will play an active role in implementing the DEMO-AIM project and supporting its broader research objectives.

Key responsibilities include:

• Designing and implementing field experiments.
• Developing and conducting survey experiments.
• Applying quantitative research methods.
• Performing causal inference analyses.
• Supporting collaborative research activities.
• Publishing findings in leading international academic journals.
• Participating in the academic activities of the Humboldt Governance Lab.
• Contributing to seminars, workshops, and collaborative initiatives within the SCRIPTS Cluster.

The position combines independent scholarship with close collaboration among researchers working on democracy, governance, and emerging technologies.

Who Should Apply?

Humboldt University welcomes applications from highly qualified researchers who have completed—or are close to completing—a PhD in Political Science or a closely related discipline.

Competitive applicants should demonstrate:

• A PhD (or expected completion before the position begins).
• Strong expertise in quantitative research methods.
• Experience with experimental research designs.
• Knowledge of survey experiments.
• Skills in causal inference and statistical analysis.
• A strong publication record or clear potential to publish in internationally recognized journals.
• Excellent written and spoken English.

Knowledge of German is considered an advantage but is not required, making the position accessible to international researchers.

Importantly, candidates who are still finalizing their doctoral dissertation are encouraged to apply, provided their PhD will be awarded before the appointment begins.

Competitive Salary and Research Support

The appointment is offered under Germany’s TV-L E13 salary scale, providing an attractive compensation package.

The position offers:

• Approximately €5,100 gross per month.
• Comprehensive health insurance.
• Social security benefits.
• Financial support for conference participation.
• Funding for research-related travel.
• Access to world-class research infrastructure.
• Opportunities for international collaboration.

These benefits allow researchers to focus on producing high-quality scholarship while participating in international academic events and conferences.

Research in the Heart of Berlin

Berlin has become one of Europe’s most vibrant academic and research hubs, attracting scholars from around the world.

Working at Humboldt University provides access to:

• International research collaborations.
• Leading policy and governance institutions.
• A diverse academic community.
• Numerous conferences, seminars, and public lectures.
• Rich historical and cultural resources relevant to political science and democratic studies.

The city’s dynamic research environment offers exceptional opportunities for professional development and interdisciplinary engagement.

Application Requirements

Applicants should submit a single PDF containing:

• A cover letter.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Copies of academic degree certificates.
• Two representative writing samples.
• Contact details for two academic referees.

Applications should demonstrate both methodological expertise and the applicant’s ability to contribute meaningfully to the DEMO-AIM project’s objectives.

Start Date

The anticipated starting date is 1 January 2027, although an earlier start may be possible through mutual agreement.

Application Deadline

The deadline for applications is 15 August 2026.

Researchers interested in democracy, political behaviour, artificial intelligence, and experimental political science are encouraged to prepare their application materials well before the closing date.

For early-career political scientists seeking an internationally competitive postdoctoral appointment, the DEMO-AIM project at Humboldt University offers an exceptional opportunity to conduct high-impact research while working alongside leading scholars in one of Europe’s most respected research institutions.

SEE ATTACHED PICTURE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the  organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official  organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs 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.

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