Senior Researcher (Tenure Track)

(MPIfG) conducts basic research on the governance of modern societies. It aims to develop an empirically based theory of the social and political foundations of modern economies by investigating the interrelation between social, economic, and political action. Building on the disciplinary traditions of sociology and political science, the Institute´s research program aims to combine and develop the approaches of new economic sociology and comparative and international political economy.

The MPIfG is currently seeking a

Senior Researcher in the field of Political Economy (tenure track)

to begin on October 1, 2026, or by agreement.

For this position we are especially interested in candidates working at the intersection between comparative and international political economy.

The purpose of this call is to offer researchers a long-term employment perspective from as early as two to five years after their PhD. Applications are invited from researchers at all career stages who hold an excellent PhD in political science, economics, sociology, economic geography, or a related discipline and have at least two years’ postdoc experience. Excellent English is essential. Further information on the Political Economy Research Area led by can be found on

The post is for an initial three-year period in accordance with the German law on temporary employment of academic staff (WissZeitVG). Following positive evaluation, the position can be made permanent.

Pay is according to the German public sector pay agreement (TVöD EG 13; after interim evaluation TVöD EG 14). The successful candidate will have the opportunity to pursue a habilitation and to teach at the International Max Planck Research School on the Social and Political Constitution of the Economy ().

We offer excellent working conditions in an international research institute. The MPIfG is centrally located in Cologne and easily accessible by public transport. The successful candidate will work predominantly at the Institute so that they can participate fully in its intellectual life and community.

A collaborative and collegial working environment is integral to the MPIfG. Starting from the application process, we are committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all our employees. The compatibility of career and family is one of our key concerns, as is the employment of people with disabilities. In seeking to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented, we strongly encourage women to apply for this position.

We look forward to receiving your application in English. Please upload the following documents as a single PDF to : cover letter, CV, copies of certificates, list of publications, a selected journal article, a project proposal of between two and four pages, and the names and addresses of three referees. The deadline for applications is April 20, 2026.

ABOUT US

Talent, creativity, and passion are qualities the Max Planck Society and the MPIfG rely on. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We advocate equality of opportunity and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, irrespective of gender, nationality, religion or belief, disability, age, or sexual orientation or identity. In diversity lies the basis for the cutting-edge research conducted at over 80 Max Planck Institutes.

CONTACT

Dr. Ursula Trappe
Head of Administration

March 2026

Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies
Paulstraße 3 | 50676 Köln