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Organisation/Company Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz Research Field Cultural studies » Other Researcher Profile First Stage Researcher (R1) Positions PhD Positions Country Germany Application Deadline 11 Jan 2026 - 23:59 (Europe/Berlin) Type of Contract Temporary Job Status Part-time Hours Per Week 25,35 Is the job funded through the EU Research Framework Programme? Not funded by a EU programme Reference Number 283-2025 Is the Job related to staff position within a Research Infrastructure? No

Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) is one of the largest universities in Germany. Thanks to its location in the Rhine-Main science region, the university can unfold to its full potential and showcase its innovative power and dynamism. Its status as a comprehensive university allows for multidisciplinary learning and teaching and has great potential for internationally renowned, interdisciplinary research. Almost all of its institutes are located on a single campus close to the Mainz city centre – creating a lively academic culture for researchers, teaching staff, and students from every continent.

The research project “Theater in Competition: Diversity as a Criterion for Funding the Arts” at the Institute for Film, Theater, Media, and Cultural Studies (FTMK) at Johannes Gutenberg University is seeking a motivated and committed individual to fill a position as an academic staff member as soon as possible.

The project forms part of the DFG Collaborative Research Center CRC 1482 “Studies in Human Differentiation.” This centre investigates the fundamental theoretical question of how we differentiate between people—that is, how they differ from one another, for example, in terms of nationality, ethnicity, religion, age, gender, performance, or sexual preference. The subproject examines how the selection of “eligible” theatre makers in the course of efforts to diversify cultural policy draws on distinctions based on human categories.

• Carrying out an independent doctoral project on the topic of the subproject
• Empirical research on cultural promotion in the theatre context, including research trips
• Collaboration within the CRC “Studies in Human Differentiation” (regular work meetings)
• Collaboration on subproject-specific events (e.g., conferences, workshops) and publications
• Presentation of own research results at national and international conferences and workshops as well as within the internal framework of the CRC
• Proportional assumption of tasks within the subproject (e.g., conducting qualitative interviews, artist talks)

In addition to the general requirements according to public services law, applicants must meet the recruitment requirements stipulated in § 57 of the Hochschulgesetz of Rhineland-Palatinate.

• A scientific university degree (MA) with above‑average grades, preferably in theatre studies, or alternatively in other disciplines such as cultural studies or sociology
• Good knowledge of and interest in qualitative empirical research (e.g., participant observation, interview methods, etc.)
• Practical experience in the field of cultural policy or theatre is appreciated, preferably in the context of management, production, or fundraising
• Very good German and English language skills (at least B2 in each)
• Strong team, organisational, and communication skills

• A wide range of offers for the development of your talents and perspectives
• Secure and transparent remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement of the federal states as well as additional benefits such as an annual special payment and company pension scheme
• Flexible working hours, 30 days' vacation and fair rules for balancing work and family life
• Home‑office – proportionate opportunity for mobile working
• Together, we are advancing science and society on this lively and dynamic campus
• Support for parents and carers, daycare places and a wide range of health and sports facilities on campus
• We believe in success through a motivating and appreciative culture, equal opportunities and diversity. That is why we promote open exchange, respectful interaction and competent leadership.
• Located close to the city centre of Mainz, the campus is easily accessible by all means of transport and with our job ticket you have a lively and culturally diverse city within easy reach
• Strong support for your own academic career

Selection process

Are you ready for a new challenge and interested in this varied and responsible position? Then submit your complete application [cover letter, CV, short outline of your doctoral project, relevant (work) certificates (with German recognition if applicable)] by 1/11/2026, via the “ Apply now ” button.

Additional comments

The position is paid according to EG 13 TV‑L and is to be filled as soon as possible, for a fixed term until June 30, 2029.

The position serves the purpose of academic qualification (doctorate).

JGU is diverse and welcomes qualified applications from people with varied backgrounds.

We aim to increase the number of women in the field of research and teaching and therefore encourage female researchers to apply.

People with severe disabilities and people with disabilities who are treated equally in accordance with Section 2 (3) SGB IX will be given preferential consideration if they are suitable.

Number of offers available 1 Company/Institute Institute for Film, Theater, Media, and Cultural Studies (FTMK) Country Germany State/Province Rhineland‑Palatinate City Mainz Postal Code 55122 Street Saarstraße 21 Geofield