Research Associate (Postdoc) § 28 Subsection 2 HmbHG

Institution: Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences, Department of Socioeconomics, Sociology, in particular Social Research Methods

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.01.2027, 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: 2026-11-11

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.

Your responsibilities will include conducting independent research, including publishing in academic journals and presenting at national and international conferences. Opportunity to participate in ongoing or future research projects within the department. Teaching of courses on social research methods and other areas of sociology in the department’s bachelor’s and master’s programs (teaching load: 5 LVS). Participation in the organization of the work area (e.g. supervision of assistants, administration of shared data sources). Participation in exchange on research and teaching in the work area and department.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.

Candidates are expected to have a very strong knowledge of social research methods (particularly quantitative) or in related fields such as social data science or computational social science. Ability to apply these methods in innovative research and incorporate them into dedicated teaching. Proven track record of relevant publications in one or more of the following areas: poverty and social inequality (e.g., work, education, impacts of climate change), transformations of welfare states, and international comparative social research. International academic experience (e.g., presentations, visiting scholar positions) is desirable. Teaching experience is expected, teaching experience in relevant subject areas is desirable. Since the department’s degree programs are primarily taught in German, sufficient German language proficiency for teaching—or the ability to acquire it within two years—is required.

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.

The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply.

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

Notice regarding the background check under Section 34a of the Hamburg security clearance act (Gesetz zur Regelung der Sicherheitsüberprüfungen, HmbSÜG): On behalf of the person chosen in the selection procedure, this office submits an inquiry to the state office for the protection of the constitution (Landesamt für Verfassungsschutz) regarding any available findings/information which meet the statutory requirements (background check and data protection information).