University of Konstanz Postdoctoral Position in Sociology 2026: Full-Time Research Opportunity in Germany

Overview

The University of Konstanz in Germany is hiring a full-time postdoctoral researcher in sociology, under reference number 2026/172. The appointment is for up to 24 months starting in November 2026, at 100% on salary scale E 13 TV-L. The post sits in the working group Sociology - Social Movements, led by Professor Sebastian Koos, within the Cluster of Excellence The Politics of Inequality. The group studies the causes and consequences of political protest, civic engagement, solidarity and helping behaviour, often from an international comparative perspective, in the context of inequality, climate change and threats to democracy. The university has about 10,000 students and has been continuously funded through Germany's Excellence Strategy since 2006.

The postdoc joins ongoing group research while developing their own project and academic profile. The workload is structured to prioritise research, and the job also includes teaching experience, support for developing grant applications and professional development.

Who can apply

Applicants need a PhD in Sociology or a related field and research experience in political sociology, social movement studies or environmental sociology. Advanced knowledge of quantitative methods and survey research is required, as are excellent written and spoken English and the ability to work independently while contributing to collaborative projects. The university promotes equal opportunities and family-friendly working, seeks to raise the share of women in research and teaching, offers a dual-career programme, and gives preference to suitably qualified applicants with disabilities.

How to apply

The application must be a single PDF submitted through the university's online portal. It contains a motivation letter of no more than one page, an outline of a potential postdoctoral project of up to two pages, a CV with a publication list, degree certificates, a writing sample such as a journal article or dissertation chapter, and the names and contact details of two referees. The project outline should state the research question, theoretical or conceptual approach, methodology and likely contribution.

Key dates

The deadline is 13 September 2026, and the post starts in November 2026.