Doctoral Researcher Position in Germany in Social Sciences (Fully Funded)

Applications are now open for the Doctoral Researcher – Science Futures position at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) in Bonn, Germany. This is a paid, part-time research role (65% workload) that fully funds your PhD studies through a salaried employment contract under the German public sector tariff. It combines professional experience in development research and policy advice with the completion of a PhD dissertation, focused on science-policy interfaces in rural development in Kenya and Tanzania.

The opportunity is in the field of social sciences (e.g., Human Geography, Sociology, Anthropology, Area Studies, Science & Technology Studies), with emphasis on qualitative/ethnographic methods and topics like science-based policy advice in agriculture, infrastructure, and education. The position is open to candidates of all nationalities, and there is no application fee. You can check out BS, MS, PhD and postdoc positions here.

Key Details:

• Degree Level: PhD
• Host Country: Germany
• Open to All Nationalities
• Funding Type: Fully funded
• Application Fee: None
• Application Deadline: 22 February 2026

What This Opportunity Offers:

• Salary: €40,800 – €58,500 gross per year (at 65%), based on German public sector pay scale
• Paid employment with German public sector benefits, including special annual payments, employer pension contributions, up to 36 days of vacation, and subsidized public transport.
• Structured dual PhD program at IDOS: group mentoring, peer support, one-on-one supervision (supervised by Prof. Dr. Anna-Katharina Hornidge), and at least 50% dedicated dissertation time
• Professional development through trainings, interdisciplinary collaboration, and fieldwork experience in East Africa

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Eligibility Criteria:

• Master’s degree in a relevant social science field (e.g., Human Geography, Sociology, Anthropology, Area Studies, Science & Technology Studies)
• Proven experience with social science research methods, especially qualitative and ethnographic approaches
• Strong motivation and commitment to completing a PhD
• Fluent written and spoken English
• Willingness to travel abroad, including to tropical countries (tropical suitability required)

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How to Apply:

Submit your application exclusively through the official IDOS application portal by 22 February 2026 at 23:59 CET. Include the position number 2026-B-01 in your application. Interviews are expected in March 2026.

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