PhD-Researcher (m/f/d) for the research project 'Extreme Adaptation to Climate Change'

Internetchemie; Hamburg; Hybrid; EUR 30.000 - 40.000; Teilzeit

Zusammenfassung

A leading research institute in Hamburg is seeking a PhD Researcher for a project on 'Extreme Adaptation to Climate Change'. The role involves conducting independent research on climate adaptation strategies, developing a PhD thesis, and presenting findings at conferences. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in political science or related fields and possess strong analytical and writing skills. The position offers part-time hours, flexible working locations, and various benefits including pension schemes.

Leistungen

Company pension scheme

Individual training opportunities

Flexible working hours

Tax-free benefit card

Qualifikationen

• Very good Master’s degree in political science, sociology, or related fields.
• Proficient knowledge of debates in international relations and security studies.
• Strong analytical and writing skills connecting empirical research with theory.
• Excellent team player with strong communication skills.
• Very good written and spoken English.

Aufgaben

• Conduct independent research on climate adaptation in security policies.
• Develop a PhD thesis on a project-related topic.
• Present findings at conferences and publish in relevant journals.
• Plan and implement project activities such as workshops and publications.

Kenntnisse

Analytical skills

Writing skills

Communication skills

Team orientation

Understanding of international relations

Ausbildung

Master’s degree in political science or a related discipline

Jobbeschreibung

PhD‑Researcher (m/f/d) for the research project 'Extreme Adaptation to Climate Change'

Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy (IFSH), part of the University of Hamburg, is a leading peace research institute in Germany. An international team conducts research on conditions for peace and security in Europe and beyond, exchanging knowledge with politics and society.

Job Summary

Part‑time (65 %), 42 month term, starting 1 February 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Remunerated according to EG 13 TV‑AVH. Position based in Hamburg.

Research Project A4 'Extreme Adaptation to Climate Change'

The project investigates how societies worldwide respond to severe climate change scenarios. Focus is on extreme adaptation strategies—planned, future‑oriented and drastic collective responses—and their social acceptance, conflicts and impacts in the context of inequality and marginalization. Interdisciplinary insights explore how communities anticipate, negotiate and confront drastic climate‑related transformations.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent field and desk research on emerging and extreme forms of climate adaptation in security and defence policy, with a focus on technological, infrastructural and speculative dimensions.
• Develop a PhD thesis on a project‑related topic.
• Present research findings at academic conferences and publish in internationally relevant journals.
• Participate in planning and implementation of project activities such as workshops, colloquia, joint publications and public outreach formats.

Qualifications

• Very good Master’s degree in political science, sociology, science and technology studies, human geography, peace and conflict studies, or a related discipline.
• Proficient knowledge of key debates in international relations, critical security studies or adjacent fields concerning technology, environment and governance. Familiarity with debates on climate adaptation, military and security technologies or speculative approaches to security and futures research is desirable.
• Strong analytical and writing skills; interest in connecting empirical research with conceptual and theoretical reflection.
• Excellent team player with strong communication skills, team orientation and initiative.
\Very good written and spoken English language skills.

Benefits

• A company pension scheme based on the Hamburg pension model.
• Individual training opportunities as part of IFSH staff development programme.
• Flexible working hours and opportunity to work up to 60 % from home, depending on personal situation and job context.
• Additional incentive pay based on the collective agreement in the form of a tax‑free non‑cash benefit card.

EEO Statement

The IFSH promotes the careers of women and is particularly interested in applications from women in under‑represented areas. Priority is given in accordance with the Hamburg Equal Opportunities Act for qualified applicants. Strongly encourage applications from individuals with disabilities.

Application

Cover letter detailing research interests and initial PhD topic ideas, academic CV (including list of publications if applicable), copies of degree certificate(s) and one writing sample. Apply via the IFSH career portal by 24 December 2025.

Contact Person

For further information, please contact Dr. Delf Rothe at ifsh.de/rothe.