Job Description

Postdoctoral Researcher – Democracy Work Revisited (gn)

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We are looking for a

Postdoctoral Researcher (gn)

part-time (32 hours per week), to start as soon as possible. The contract will be limited for 12 months, extensions are envisioned but depending on the availability of funding. The successful candidate will serve as connecting point between Johanna Mair and three PhD students working on organizing and innovation for democracy.

Your tasks:

Lead a cutting-edge research program on "Democracy Work Revisited", integrating perspectives from political innovation, civil society, and democracy studies to contribute to innovative theory building. Conduct in-depth qualitative research on civil society and social movement organizations in Germany, Europe, and internationally. Co-develop high-quality academic manuscripts based on empirical and qualitative research, leveraging both existing datasets and original data collected through rigorous fieldwork. Collaborate closely with a diverse team of PhD researchers and team leads at the School of Transnational Governance at the EUI (Italy) and the University of Fribourg (Switzerland), leading data analysis and scholarly writing efforts. Engage actively with interdisciplinary literature spanning political science, sociology, organizational studies, and social movement research. Organize and lead knowledge dissemination activities such as panel discussions and roundtables aimed at broadening public understanding and fostering informed debates on democracy and political organizing.

Your profile:

Strong methodological expertise in qualitative research methods, with a demonstrated ability to employ innovative analytical tools; experience in cross-country comparative research is highly desirable. Quantitative skills are an asset. A PhD in political sociology, organizational studies, political science, or a closely related field, with a clear research focus on democracy, civil society, or social movements. Proven ability to collaborate effectively in diverse, multidisciplinary teams, with experience mentoring junior researchers and managing collaborative projects. Experience with third-party funding acquisition is a plus. An international research profile with a strong interest in European democratic processes and political innovation. Intellectual curiosity and capacity to engage with and synthesize literature from multiple social science disciplines.

We offer:

30 days paid holidays per year and up to 20 days workation possible
Flexible Working Hours
Good Traffic Connections
International and diverse work environment
Commuter Ticket
Mobile working possible
please submit the following documents via the button below:

An up-to-date CV A cover letter describing your fit for and interest in this position A writing sample (article, excerpt from dissertation)

We will review applications on a rolling basis and recommend applying early.


Please contact Johanna Mair, Professor of Organization Management & Leadership, for further information about the position.