Research Associate (Postdoc) in Political Theory § 28 Subsection 2 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences, Social Sciences, Political Science program

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 1 October, 2026, fixed for a period of three years (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).The contract provides for a maximum extension of up to three years depending on the associate’s achievements during the first stage. Providing that a position is available and that requirements have been fulfilled, the associate may apply for temporary civil servant status in accordance with Section 28 subsection 2 HmbHG.

Application deadline: 2026-06-28

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

Your responsibilities

Duties include teaching and research in the respective department or institute. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications as well as acquire teaching experience. These duties are intended to promote academic achievement. Therefore, at least one-third of set working hours will be made available for the associate’s own academic work.

Independent teaching of seminars within the Bachelor’s and Master’s degree programmes with Political Science involvement, particularly in the area of Political Theory and the History of Ideas, amounting to 5 teaching hours per week. Further qualification for the purpose of postdoctoral qualification. Development of personal research and training projects, and contributions to the research projects of the professorial and program area. Participation in academic self-governance.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.

Excellent university degree in a relevant area. Excellent specialist knowledge of political theory, particularly political philosophy, democratic theory, theories of collective decision-making and/or the history of political theory. High quality research in your MA/M.Sc. thesis, doctoral dissertation and journal publications, as well as international experience. High quality further qualification project, demonstrated awareness of gender and diversity issues.

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. Peter Niesen

Location

Allende-Platz 1
20146 Hamburg

Reference number

150

Application deadline

2026-06-28

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

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)
• two-page outline of the qualification project

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.