2 Postdoctoral Scholars in Human Geography (f/m/d)

The Human Geography unit of Heidelberg University’s Institute of Geography (www.geog.uni-heidelberg.de/) is seeking to appoint 2 postdoctoral scholars, starting 1 September or 1 October 2022. Under the new leadership of Prof. Natalie Koch, the group will focus on core themes in political geography, including authoritarianism, geopolitics, the state system, empire, nationalism and identity politics, natural resources and energy geopolitics, and transregional approaches to the Middle East.

Successful candidates are expected to design and conduct independent research that complements the unit’s ongoing projects, and to independently and collaboratively publish and present results in diverse outlets and conferences. Team members will assist with organizing workshops, conferences, and guest lecture series, as well as other activities to support the Human Geography program at Heidelberg. Scholars will also be invited to collaborate in designing and drafting research proposals for further funding. Teaching at the BA and MA level are mandatory (4 SWS), primarily in Heidelberg but potentially also including international field excursions. 

Your profile

§  Completed PhD in Human Geography or closely related social science field

§  Strong background in qualitative research methods 

§  University teaching experience, preferably in human geography

§  Competence in collaborative research and teaching

§  Excellent organizational and communication skills

§  Excellent command of written and spoken English

§  Desired but not required: Fluency in German and/or an additional language (esp. Arabic)

Candidates with a background in Gulf and Arabian Peninsula studies are especially encouraged to apply, but scholars with diverse regional specializations will also be seriously considered.  

The desired (but negotiable) starting date is 1 September or 1 October 2022 and successful candidates are expected to move to Heidelberg, Germany. 

All applications regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic or social origin, religion, dis/ability, age, or sexual orientation are welcome.

Offer and salary

§  Salary is determined according to university guidelines based on qualifications, at least at the E13 level

§  Initial contract for 3 years, with the possibility of one 3-year extension

§  Funding for fieldwork and conferences

§  Research support by student assistants

§  Individual office space and technology

§  Flexible working hours

§  Professional development and advising support

Application:

Deadline: 8 July 2022. Interviews for the top candidates will take place online or in Heidelberg no later than 2 August, and the final decision will be communicated shortly thereafter.

Send your application in English to Brigitte Heine: brigitte.heine@uni-heidelberg.de  It should be collected as 1 PDF (lastname_firstname.pdf) with the following elements in order: 

(1)   letter of motivation (max. 3 pages), outlining your background, expertise, and experiences that are relevant for the position; 

(2)   a curriculum vitae and list of publications; 

(3)   a writing sample (1 article or chapter only); and 

(4)   a copy of the PhD certificate – or if you have not yet completed the degree, a letter from your doctoral supervisor confirming that you will complete the degree by the end of 2022.