Research Associate for the Project “Carbon dynamics and climate futures in drylands of Southern Africa” in CLICCS § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Cluster of Excellence „Climate, Climatic Change, and Society (CLICCS)“ (climate research)

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.10.2026, fixed until 30.09.2028 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-05-15

Scope of work: full-time position suitable for part-time

The Cluster of Excellence “Climate, Climatic Change, and Society” (CLICCS) investigates climate dynamics and climate-related social dynamics, as well as the interactions between the two. To this end, we are looking for colleagues from a wide range of disciplines, including the natural sciences as well as the social sciences. We are proud to work together in a truly integrating manner. Our partners, e.g. the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology, Helmholtz Centre Hereon or the German Climate Computing Centre are also hiring. All jobs:

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications.

The main responsibility will be to conduct an ethnographic study investigating indigenous knowledge of soils and their susceptibility to climate change in Namibia. The candidate is expected to draw on their prior ethnographic experience in Namibia for this work. The successful candidate will also be expected to contribute to joint, interdisciplinary publications within the team that address the overarching aim of investigating the various ways in which climate change is perceived and experienced.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate in anthropology.

Extensive knowledge of environmental anthropology and experience of fieldwork in Namibia, enabling continued work there. Experience of collaborating with natural scientists and with working in interdisciplinary teams.

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Michael Schnegg

Location

Edmund-Siemers-Allee 1
20146 Hamburg

Reference number

Application deadline

2026-05-15

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:

cover letter
CV
copies of degree certificate(s)
electronic copy of dissertation and one relevant publication
research proposal (max 2 pages)

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.