The research group “Conquering (with) Concrete. Global Construction Companies as Global Players in Local Contexts” is inviting applications for two doctoral positions (both TV-L E13, 65%). Starting date: 1 January 2021, duration of contract: three years. The research project is funded by the VolkswagenStiftung as part of the Freigeist Fellowship programme.

For more information about the research project, please follow the link: https://leibniz- irs.de/en/research/projects/project/conquering-with-concrete-german-construction- companies-as-global-players-in-local-contexts/

Requirements for candidate 1
A master’s degree (M.A.) or equivalent in (Human) Geography or related discipline in the humanities and social sciences is required by the time of appointment. Beneficial for the project is advanced knowledge of theories and concepts such as global commodity chains, internationalisation of companies, temporary organisation of projects or geography of the built environment. Readiness to conduct fieldwork in the “Global South” (research stays of two to three months), preferably in Latin America, is a necessary precondition. Therefore preference will be given to applicants with a previous training/experience in extra-European contexts. Profound expertise in methodologies of interviews as well as an interest in economic databases, including an affinity for statistical tools and mapping are important assets.

Requirements for candidate 2
A master’s degree (M.A.) or equivalent in social anthropology, ethnology or related discipline in the humanities and social sciences is required by the time of appointment. Especially relevant for the project is advanced knowledge of theories and concepts of urban and infrastructural anthropology, ethnography of material culture (esp. construction materials) or science and technology studies. Readiness to conduct fieldwork in the “Global South” (research stays up to six months), preferably in sub-Saharan Africa, is a necessary precondition. Therefore preference will be given to applicants with a previous training/experience in extra-European contexts. Profound expertise in participatory observation and knowledge of interview techniques and methodologies are important assets.

General requirements
Language proficiency in English is required. Advanced knowledge of German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch or other languages relevant to the doctoral thesis is a further benefit. Both applicants should demonstrate ability to conduct fieldwork, showing sensitivity towards diverse local actors and circumstances as well as understanding of environmental contexts. The candidates should be able to pursue challenging research in an independent manner, while also committing to teamwork. Previous international academic experience (study, research, publications, conferences etc.) is an asset. Resourcefulness in logistic and administrative matters is expected.

Applications in English (unless otherwise stated) must include:
1) cover letter (max. 500 words),
2) CV,
3) position piece demonstrating how your previous research expertise and personal interests are related to the project “Conquering (with) Concrete” (max. 1,500 words, including references),
4) two writing samples (one in English, one preferably in German/ French/ Spanish/ Portuguese/ Dutch, if this is not possible, then also the second text should be in English; max. 5,000 words each),
5) officially confirmed diplomas/certificates (in English/German, otherwise a translation is required),
6) if applicable: certificates of employment/job references (in English/German, otherwise a translation is required),
7) names and contact information of two academic referees.
Please submit all documents in a single PDF (max. 2 MB) with the reference number 5420 for candidate 1 (geography) or 5520 for candidate 2 (social anthropology) to bewerbungen@leibniz-irs.de by 1 August 2020, 23:59 CET.

Until 15 August selected candidates will receive the invitation to present a potential case study in a form of a 5-minute pitch with one slide, giving insights in their theoretical and methodological backgrounds. Interviews are scheduled for 10 and 11 September 2020 and will be conducted either in person in Erkner (on condition that the Covid-19 regulations will allow it) or via video call (Skype/Ms Teams).

The IRS is committed to the principle of equality of opportunities. Female applicants are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants with disabilities with equivalent qualifications and aptitude will be given preferential consideration. The IRS supports the compatibility of career and family and was certified as a family-oriented employer in 2015.

For further information and questions regarding the positions and the research project please contact the principal investigator Dr Monika Motylinska: monika.motylinska@leibniz-irs.de