Research Assistant in Human Geography

At the University of Göttingen -Public Law Foundation-, Geographisches Institut - Abt. Humangeographie, there is a position as

to be filled. Starting date is as soon as possible. The position is limited to three years.

It is funded by the Lower Saxony Ministry of Science and Culture on the topic of “Dynamics of Resource Use and Environmental Conflicts.” The project “Dynamics of Resource Use and Environmental Conflicts” is part of the overarching strategy of the Chair of “Geographic Resource and Environmental Conflict Research.”

The aim is to investigate which framework conditions, multiscale interrelationships, and social factors influence—and in what ways—the course, dynamics, and outcomes of resource use and environmental conflicts. The geographical focus of this project will be on selected case study regions in the Global South that are undergoing particularly dynamic development. One case study region will be located in Indonesia.

Your Tasks:

• Design and implementation of a comparative case-study research approach related to the above-mentioned research focus;
• Independent data collection and analysis in selected case studies in Indonesia and another region;
• Establishment of partnerships (in academia and practice) in the selected case study regions;
• Assistance with third-party funding aquisition, as well as applying for independent research grants; 
• Writing scientific publications (particularly in peer-reviewed journals);
• Presenting findings at academic conferences;
• Research management tasks (e.g., science communication, organizing a symposium) and the development of teaching materials.

Your Profile:

• An excellent degree from a university (Master’s or equivalent) in human geography, sustainability studies, or a related field;
• Ph.D. in human geography or a discipline related to spatial or sustainability studies, completed with a grade of “very good”;
• Excellent knowledge of research methods in human geography and the social sciences;
• Research experience in the Global South is desirable;
• Knowledge of theories and concepts in sustainability-oriented transformation research, geographical conflict research, political ecology, or similar fields;
• Interest in interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research approaches;
• Experience publishing in peer-reviewed academic journals;
• Ability to work in a team, high level of commitment, and ability to work independently;
• Willingness to travel for work, undertake extended research stays, and give presentations;
• Very good command of German and English (spoken and written).
• Knowledge of Bahasa Indonesia is an asset.

We offer:

• excellent conditions for research and professional development;
• a wide range of continuing education opportunities;
• a collegial and open-minded work environment that encourages initiative and independent work;
• flexible work hours to help balance family responsibilities and professional obligations.

The University of Göttingen is an equal opportunities employer and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply in fields in which they are underrepresented. The university has committed itself to being a family-friendly institution and supports their employees in balancing work and family life. The University is particularly committed to the professional participation of severely disabled employees and therefore welcomes applications from severely disabled people. In the case of equal qualifications, applications from people with severe disabilities will be given preference. A disability or equality is to be included in the application in order to protect the interests of the applicant.

Please upload your application in one pdf file including the usual documents until 8/31/2026 on the application portal of the university using this link: http://obp.uni-goettingen.de/de-de/OBF/Index/76607. For more information get in touch with Jana Zscheischler directly via E-Mail: jana.zscheischler@uni-goettingen.de, Tel. +49 551-39-28022 .

Please note:
With submission of your application, you accept the processing of your applicant data in terms of data-protection law. Further information on the legal basis and data usage is provided in the Information General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

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