Student Assistant (m/f/d) | Historical Epistemology of the Final Theory Program

Job Offer from January 30, 2024

The Max Planck Institute for the History of Science (MPIWG) is an internationally respected research institute of the Max Planck Society (MPG) with three research departments, several research groups, and a graduate school. At the MPIWG, around three hundred scholars from all over the world investigate the sciences past and present, working together on a collective, collaborative, and transdisciplinary basis. The MPIWG is renowned worldwide as a hub for reflection on the role of the sciences in politics and society. It is located in southwestern Berlin, close to the campus of the Free University Berlin and other research institutions.

The Max Planck Research Group “Historical Epistemology of the Final Theory Program”, led by Dr. Alexander Blum, seeks to appoint a Student Assistant (f/m/d) for up to 10 hours a week, from April 1, 2024 – January 31, 2025

Max Planck Research Group “Historical Epistemology of the Final Theory Program” is dedicated to examining and assessing the century-long quest for a theory of "quantum gravity," a term coined to describe the hypothetical merging of Albert Einstein's general theory of relativity and the emerging quantum theory. The roots of this challenge date back to 1916 when Einstein first proposed the need for such a synthesis. The group employs the methods of historical epistemology, which involves investigating the historical development of scientific ideas and their underlying epistemological frameworks. In this context, the researchers aim to provide a novel and historico-critical perspective on the status and prospects of the ongoing search for a final, fundamental theory in physics. For more detailed information, please visit the department website .

• assisting with editorial work on scientific texts (especially in English), including formatting according to style guide
• maintaining and updating the department webpages, databases, and digital repositories
• supporting project members with the organization of scientific events
• general support of research

• currently enrolled in a Bachelor’s program (in at least your second semester) or a Master’s program (first or second semester) at a university in Germany
• excellent language skills (Native English speakers (or similar level) are encouraged to apply)
• good IT skills
• the ability to work both independently and in a team, good communication skills, a talent for organization
• an interest in research
• an interest in and enjoyment of work in an international research institution

• remuneration at the student employee rates of the MPG support for junior scientists and scholars: currently €12.41 per hour for Bachelor’s students and €14.33 for Master’s students who can demonstrate completion of their Bachelor’s degree

• working hours to align with your studies
• work in an international setting with staff and guests from more than forty countries
• close contact with all research and research-support units and the opportunity for direct, personal dialogue
• promotion of your professional interests and research interests
• use of the on-site reference library
• access to the wide range of training courses offered by the MPG’s Planck Academy
• occupational health management: weekly in-house yoga classes; regular information on courses offered by our partner health insurance companies
• a student representative for equal opportunities

The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer that strives to foster an inclusive workplace. As an institute of the MPG, the Max Planck Institute for the History of Science supports a working community for all free from discrimination and harassment. We explicitly encourage applications from qualified individuals who belong to groups that are often underrepresented in the workplace due to age, disability, ethnicity, family status, gender, nationality, race, sex, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, or religion.

Please follow the links to find out more about the MPIWG’s policies on gender equality and  hiring practices for people with disabilitys   as well as Germany’s anti-discrimination laws as outlined in the General Equal Treatment .

Please submit your application with complete documents, preferably without a photograph, through our application portal. Include cover letter, curriculum vitae and a copy of your current enrolment certificate.

Applications must be received by February 28, 2024 (23:59 CET)

Please note that we can only accept electronic applications submitted through the portal.

For any questions about the position or the application process, please contact Kseniia Mohelsky .

Further information on the MPIWG can be found at our website .