Postdoctoral Program 2026

Max-Planck-Institut für Gesellschaftsforschung

The Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies (MPIfG) conducts basic research on the governance of modern societies. It aims to develop an empirically based theory of the social and political foundations of modern economies by investigating the interrelation between social, economic, and political action. Building on the disciplinary traditions of sociology and political science, the Institute’s research program aims to combine and develop the approaches of new economic sociology and comparative and international political economy. We are now accepting applications from

Postdoctoral Researchers (f/m/d)

in the social sciences for our research areas Political Economy (Prof. Dr. Lucio Baccaro) and Economic Sociology (Prof. Dr. Jens Beckert). Postdoctoral researchers are employed on a two-year contract starting on October 1, 2026, with salary and benefits according to the collective agreement for the public service (TVöD E13). The MPIfG provides an attractive, international research environment in which postdoctoral researchers pursue a project of their own choice within the scope of our research program. Scholars of all nationalities who successfully completed their doctoral degree no longer than three years before the starting date at the MPIfG are eligible to apply for the postdoctoral program. Successful candidates are chosen on the basis of scholarly excellence, a research proposal of up to three pages outlining a project to be pursued at the MPIfG, and a job interview. Our postdoctoral researchers are expected to work at the Institute in Cologne so that they can participate in its intellectual life and community. A collaborative and collegial working environment is integral to the MPIfG. Starting from the application process, we are committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all our employees. The compatibility of career and family is one of our key concerns, as is the employment of people with disabilities. We look forward to receiving your online application in English or German. Please note that applications by email cannot be considered. For further information on the program and how to apply, please visit our website. The deadline for applications is December 15, 2025 (23:59 pm UTC+1). Applicants will be notified whether or not they have been successful in early April 2026.