Postdoctoral Research Associate

45,000 students and 8,000 employees in teaching, research and administration, all working together to shape perspectives for the future – that is the University of Münster. Embedded in the vibrant atmosphere of Münster with its high standard of living, the University’s diverse research profile and attractive study programmes draw students and researchers throughout Germany and from around the world.

The Institute of Political Science at the University of Münster is seeking to fill the position of a

Postdoctoral Research Associate
Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in

(salary level TV-L E 13)

for the externally funded collaborative Research Group: “Biologization of Batteries and Materials: Developing the Battery of the Future" (BIOSTORE).

The position is available starting at the earliest possible date. We are offering a fixed-term full time (100 %) position until 31 October 2026 (corresponding to the project’s duration). Depending on the availability of additional funding possibilities, the position may be extended. Currently, the regular full-employment time is 39 hours and 50 minutes per week.

Project description

The broad concept of bioeconomy is increasingly being promoted as a potential strategy to foster sustainability transitions and address climate change. One key element is the replacement of fossil-based raw materials with bio-based alternatives, fostering more efficient use of resources and promoting innovation. Yet, sustainability benefits are by no means automatic and without appropriate governance mechanisms, bioeconomy development also carries significant risks and trade-offs. The promotion of technologically innovative, environmentally friendly and equitable bioeconomic innovation remains a major challenge for policymakers.

Within the expansive domain of the bioeconomy, the interdisciplinary joint project "Biologization of Batteries and Materials: Developing the Battery of the Future" (BIOSTORE) tackles fundamental and applied questions regarding the replacement of petroleum-based materials and environmentally harmful or rare substances with tailor-made biological alternatives using the case of batteries. From a social science perspective, this project includes analyses of social evaluation, value chain governance and technology integration of sustainable innovations.

Your Tasks

• Developing and implementing a postdoctoral research program on the governance of sustainable innovation with a focus on technology integration, value chain regulation and/or participation
• Publishing articles in peer-reviewed international journals
• Presentation of research results at workshops and conferences
• Conception, organization and implementation of at least two workshops with the aim of involving citizens and integrating other stakeholders
• Participation in the development of further research collaborations
• Participation in the development and dissemination of research results to support policy-making

Our expectations

Essential

• A PhD in Political Science or related discipline
• Demonstrable knowledge in the field of sustainability governance
• Demonstrable knowledge of research methods, ethics and international good scientific practices
• Excellent command of English both verbally and in writing
• Solid publication strategy and track record of publications in peer-reviewed international journals as appropriate for the career stage

Desirable

• German language skills would be advantageous but are not a requirement
• Demonstrable experience in using relevant software for data analysis is desirable
• Excellent time management skills would be welcomed
• Ability to work independently and as a part of a team, both virtually and in person is advantageous

Advantages for you

• Additional funding for conference and fieldwork travel as well as research hardware and software
• A dynamic international, interdisciplinary research community in the field of sustainability transitions and bioeconomy governance
• Possibility to become integrated into broader networks within the University of Münster
• Appreciation, commitment, openness and respect – values which are important to us
• Our broad range of diverse work-time models offers great flexibility – also when working from home
• If you have family members or young children in your care, our Family Service Office  offers concrete support to help you balance your private and professional responsibilities
• As an educational institution, we are deeply committed to offering occupational training and continuing education  opportunities tailored to your individual needs
• From A – Z, Aikido to Zumba, our sport and health programmes  ensure a healthy work-life balance
• As a university employee, you are entitled to numerous benefits afforded to public servants, e.g. an attractive company pension scheme (VBL ), an annual end-of-year bonus  and a position that is shielded from economic fluctuations

The University of Münster strongly supports equal opportunity and diversity. We welcome all applicants regardless of sex, nationality, ethnic or social background, religion or worldview, disability, age, sexual orientation or gender identity. We are committed to creating family-friendly working conditions. Part-time options are generally available.

We actively encourage applications by women. Women with equivalent qualifications and academic achievements will be preferentially considered unless these are outweighed by reasons which necessitate the selection of another candidate.

Applications should include the following documents in English as a single PDF:

• A CV
• A letter of motivation, including a brief outline of the intended research (max. two pages)
• Contact details of two referees
• A copy of university degrees
• A writing sample
• The earliest possible date of employment

For further information or questions, please do not hesitate to contact Professor Dr Thomas Dietz ([email protected] ); Junior Professor Dr Antonia Graf ([email protected] )

Are you interested? Then we look forward to receiving your application by 7 January 2024.

Please submit your application via email as a single PDF document  to: Ms Gabriele Erwig, Email: [email protected] .

University of Münster
Institut für Politikwissenschaft
Scharnhorststraße 100
48151 Münster

www.uni-muenster.de