Job Openings

Working as a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies

 
The Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies conducts basic research on the governance of modern societies. It aims to develop an empirically based theory of the social and political foundations of modern economies by investigating the interrelation between economic, social, and political action. Using primarily an institutional approach, it examines how markets and business organizations are embedded in historical, institutional, political, and cultural frameworks, how they develop, and how their social contexts change over time. The institute seeks to build a bridge between theory and policy and to contribute to political debate on major challenges facing modern societies. The research program allows for a variety of topics and methodological approaches and offers researchers at all stages of their careers the opportunity to pursue their own research in this field.
 

After your MA degree

PhD program
 
Apply for a doctoral position in the International Max Planck Research School on the Social and Political Constitution of the Economy. The IMPRS-SPCE is a joint international doctoral program from the MPIfG, the Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences at the University of Cologne, and the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Duisburg-Essen. The program offers excellent research conditions to especially talented German and foreign doctoral students in the fields of political economy, economic sociology, and organization studies. In a structured program with a broad curriculum and intensive advising as well as international contacts, you will be fully funded for 42 months to work on your dissertation project.
 
Most IMPRS-SPCE alumni teach and conduct research at universities in Germany and abroad. Others work for commercial companies, in political and trade associations, and for international organizations.
 

After your PhD

Postdoctoral program
 
You can apply for our postdoctoral program up to three years after completing your PhD at a university in Germany or abroad. We offer you the opportunity to publish your research results and develop new research projects. As a postdoctoral researcher, you will work on your chosen project within the Institute's research program and actively participate in the life of the Institute. You will benefit from the Institute’s training programs and support for travel and conference organization.
 

During and after your Habilitation

Habilitation positions
Research group leader positions (MPG)
 
If you've already gained some postdoctoral experience after successfully completing your PhD, then apply for a six-year position as a Research Fellow (wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin/wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter). We will support you in your career development with an eye to your individual qualifications and project requirements.
 
We occasionally offer individual positions as Research Fellow at the MPIfG for PhD holders.
 
Experienced researchers who have (nearly) completed their Habilitation may apply for a position as Research Group Leader. Research groups are initially limited to five years, but they can be extended or made permanent (with tenure).
 

Visiting Researchers at the MPIfG

 
We regret that our Visiting Researchers Program is suspended until further notice due to the coronavirus pandemic. Information about the continuation of the program will be made available here in due course.
 
Visiting Researchers Program
Scholar in Residence
 
Enrich your academic career as a PhD student, postdoc, or senior researcher with a stay as a visiting researcher at the MPIfG. As a visiting researcher, you can concentrate entirely on your research. The MPIfG is a place where researchers from around the world can meet, discuss, and work together. The Institute offers an ideal environment to spark research ideas and build your interdisciplinary and international networks. The MPIfG views international cooperation as the most promising basis for excellent research.