Summary
The Institute of Communication Science at Friedrich Schiller University Jena invites applications for a doctoral candidate / scientific researcher to join the DFG-funded project “Strategic Narratives in the Age of Transnational Influence Campaigns”. The position begins 1 April 2027, is offered part-time at 75% (30 hours/week) and is fixed-term for 36 months. The role combines cross-national survey experiments, publication and conference work, and the opportunity for doctoral studies within the project framework.
Designation
Doctoral Candidate / Scientific Researcher
Details
| Vacancy ID | 279/2026 |
|---|---|
| Closing Date | 31 October 2026 |
| Start Date | 01 April 2027 |
| Position Type | Part-time, fixed-term (36 months) |
| Working Hours | 75% (30 hours per week) |
| Salary | Salary scale 13 TV-L (collective agreement for the public sector of the federal states) |
| Location | Institute of Communication Science, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Germany |
| Apply Link | Apply online at uni-jena.de |
Research Area
The role is embedded in the DFG-funded research project “Strategic Narratives in the Age of Transnational Influence Campaigns”, which investigates how foreign actors tailor strategic narratives to different information environments, how domestic actors amplify those narratives, and how audiences respond across countries.
Location
Friedrich Schiller University Jena — Institute of Communication Science, Jena, Germany.
Eligibility / Qualification
- University degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Communication Science or a related discipline.
- Strong statistical knowledge and proficiency in the R programming language.
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Experience with survey research and/or experimental methods.
- Familiarity with the socio-political context of at least one project country (e.g., Russia, Poland, Hungary, Serbia, Estonia, or France) is desirable.
- Practical experience in science communication, public relations, or additional programming skills (e.g., Python) are advantageous.
Scholarship Description
This position funds a researcher for 36 months on a part-time basis (75%), including a competitive salary according to TV-L 13 and entitlement to a special annual payment. The role offers structured support for academic development, including the opportunity to pursue doctoral studies within the project, access to the Graduate Academy for doctoral candidates, participation in international conferences, and support for mobility within the project network. Additional benefits include flexible working hours, teleworking possibilities, 30 days annual leave plus two extra days off (24 and 31 December), and an appreciative, international project environment.
Responsibilities
- Design and implement cross-national survey experiments examining reception of strategic narratives.
- Analyze data and prepare results for publication in international peer-reviewed journals.
- Present findings at national and international conferences.
- Contribute to team collaboration and project-related exchange.
- Pursue doctoral qualification as part of the project framework.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their application via the online form linked below. Prepare documents that typically include a cover letter, CV, copies of academic certificates, and any relevant work or publication samples. If you have questions about the position, contact Prof. Edda Humprecht at edda.humprecht@uni-jena.de.
Apply online: https://jobs.uni-jena.de/jobposting/03eaf92e9f8247ca2b90bf92f9f8cbeaa13aeec7
Last Date for Apply
31 October 2026
Notes
- Preference will be given to candidates with severe disabilities if qualifications and suitability are equal.
- The advertised contract is fixed for the duration of the project (36 months) and offered as a part-time post at 75% of full-time hours.
