The Leibniz Institute for Regional Geography (IfL) in Leipzig, Germany, invites applications for
the position of:
Scientific Researcher (PhD‐position, TV‐L 13, 65%, 36 months)
This position is part of an international joint research project, Agents of Change in Old‐industrial Regions in Europe (ACORE), funded by the Volkswagen Foundation. The project is coordinated by the IfL and includes the following project partners: Lund University, Jan Evangelista Purkyně University in Ústí nad Labem, Cardiff University and the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. The main ambition of the ACORE project is to investigate how old‐industrial regions located outside major European agglomerations can deal with unfavourable structural conditions and create a new development path leading to prosperity and well‐being, contributing to the social cohesion and stability of Europe as a whole. The successful candidate is expected to become an engaged member of the joint research project. The IfL is an independent research institute specialising in human geography, and is a member of the Leibniz Association, which includes Germany’s leading research institutions. The institute is funded by the State of Saxony, the Federal Republic of Germany, and by project funding.
We offer
- The position of a Scientific Researcher based within the Department for Regional Geography of Europe funded for 36 months, starting from 01.01.2019
- Opportunities to develop and implement research ideas within the framework of the ACORE project
- Opportunities to pursue a doctoral degree at Leipzig University
- Family‐friendly working conditions that encourage the compatibility of work and family life, flexible organisation of working time, and a good working environment
- Generous travel allowance to cover conference attendance, and additional funding for publication activities
- Institutional support, office space, access to IfL library resources
- Compensation according to the regulations for level TV‐L 13
Your responsibilities
- To design and implement a research project that contributes to the overall goals of the ACORE project
- To work on two Germany‐based case studies; both are non‐metropolitan urban centres located in old‐industrial regions
- By drawing comparisons with other countries, contribute to the findings and the scientific outputs of the ACORE project
- Assume a fair share of responsibility in preparing project workshops, conferences, and outreach activities, and to actively participate in such events
- Contribute to project dissemination activities through peer‐reviewed academic and policy publications, and presentations at national and international conferences
- To contribute to and participate in the Institute’s research activities and events
- The fulfillment of the tasks requires the willingness to travel in the study region and abroad
Our expectations
- Academic background (Master’s level) in human geography, European studies, public policy, urban and regional planning, or related disciplines
- Familiarity with the current debates on European cohesion, spatial policy, and urban and regional development
- Experience in qualitative research methods and in designing and conducting semi‐structured interviews
- High proficiency (spoken and written) in German is essential, as the fieldwork will be conducted in German
- High proficiency in English (spoken and written) is important for communication within the project
- Experience in presenting at international conferences
- Publications in peer‐reviewed academic journals and policy outlets is an advantage
Personal qualities
- High level of motivation and the ability to meet deadlines
- Ability to work as part of a team
- Personal commitment and reliability
The IfL follows the goal of professional equality of women and men and has received the Total E‐Quality seal for its efforts. Applications from qualified women are most welcome. Recognised persons with disabilities receive preference by equal qualification. We welcome applications from individuals with a migration background.
Please send your application in English in a single pdf file (maximum 30 pages) with the subject line “Job Application: Scientific Researcher ACORE” to: personal@ifl‐leipzig.de. Your application should include CV, motivation letter, copies of relevant certificates and degrees, themes of prior work, including projects and relevant publications. The motivation letter may include a short description of your proposed contribution to the ACORE project.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview conducted in late November 2018.
Deadline for receipt of applications: 31 October 2018
Further information: Dr Nadir Kinossian n_kinossian@ifl-leipzig.de