Summary
The University of Bonn is inviting applications for 12 Research Associate positions (65% FTE / TV-L E13) within the newly established DFG Research Training Group (GRK 3125), “Reconciliation and its Equivalents in a Transcultural Comparison.” The positions offer fully funded doctoral research opportunities for four years, dedicated to investigating concepts, practices, and strategies of conflict transformation across diverse historical, cultural, and disciplinary contexts.
Designation
Research Associate / Doctoral Researcher (Wissenschaftliche/r Mitarbeiter/in)
65% Part-time | Fixed-term (4 Years: Feb 1, 2027 – Jan 31, 2031)
Key Details at a Glance
| Parameter | Details |
| Host Institution | University of Bonn (Bonn Center for Reconciliation Studies) |
| Funding Body | German Research Foundation (DFG – GRK 3125) |
| Number of Positions | 12 |
| Salary Scale / Remuneration | TV-L Entgeltgruppe 13 (65%) |
| Duration | 4 Years (February 1, 2027 – January 31, 2031) |
| Location | Bonn, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany |
| Application Reference Code | 2026/333 |
| Application Deadline | September 17, 2026 |
Research Area
The DFG Research Training Group 3125 investigates concepts, strategies, and practices of conflict transformation from an interdisciplinary and transcultural perspective, employing both synchronic and diachronic comparative analyses. Relevant fields include:
- Ancient History & Early Modern History
- Modern and Contemporary History
- (Historical) Peace and Conflict Studies & Reconciliation Studies
- Art History & Critical Museum and Heritage Studies
- History and Culture of the Islamicate World & Jewish Studies
- English Literature and Cultural Studies
- History Education
- Philosophy of Religion
- Law
- Social and Cultural Anthropology & Social Sciences
Location
Bonn, Germany (University of Bonn – Bonn Center for Reconciliation Studies)
Eligibility / Qualifications
- Academic Background: An above-average university degree (Master’s, State Examination, or equivalent) in one of the relevant disciplines listed above.
- Interdisciplinary Drive: Demonstrated interest in interdisciplinary research and international academic exchange.
- Language Proficiency:
- English at level B2 or higher (minimum C1 if the doctoral dissertation is to be written in English). Proof can be submitted after employment starts if necessary.
- Team Skills: Ability to collaborate productively in an international and diverse team environment.
Position Description & Benefits
Successful candidates will write an individual subject-specific doctoral dissertation aligned with the themes of the Research Training Group and actively participate in on-site qualification and study programs.
Benefits:
- Structured Supervision: High-level structured doctoral supervision within an international academic setting.
- International Mobility: Travel and research funding for extended stays abroad (lasting several months).
- Work Environment: Collegial, family-friendly, and stimulating multidisciplinary research hub.
- Remuneration: Competitive salary according to the German public service scale TV-L E13 (65%), including statutory health insurance, social security, and pension contributions.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted electronically as a single PDF document by email.
Required Application Documents:
- Two-page Cover Letter explaining your motivation and fit
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Five-page Project Outline of your proposed PhD research
- Academic degree certificates, transcripts, and references
- Proof of English language proficiency
- (Optional for initial submission) Letters of recommendation (may be provided upon invitation to an interview)
- Send Application To:
ckrueger@uni-bonn.de - Subject Line / Reference: Application code
2026/333 - Contact for Inquiries: Prof. Dr. Christine Krüger or via www.reconciliation.de
Last Date to Apply
September 17, 2026 (Selection interviews will be conducted in the first half of October 2026).
