Applications open for an interdisciplinary PhD opportunity at Philipps-Universität Marburg Philipps-Universität Marburg is inviting applications for a doctoral position within Research Training Group (RTG) 3159, offering qualified graduates the opportunity to pursue a PhD in an international and interdisciplinary research environment in Germany. The position is particularly relevant to candidates with academic backgrounds in peace and conflict studies, gender studies, history, modern German literature, political science, law, sociology, theology or economics. The doctoral position begins on 1 February 2027 and is offered at 75% part-time employment. The position is scheduled to run until 31 January 2031, providing up to four years of doctoral employment. The application deadline is 4 October 2026. Key details of the PhD opportunity University: Philipps-Universität Marburg Research Training Group: RTG 3159 Registration number: ZE-0063-ICWC-wmz-2026 Position: Doctoral Researcher/PhD Position Start date: 1 February 2027 Application deadline: 4 October 2026 Duration: Until 31 January 2031 Employment: 75% part-time Salary: E 13 TV-H Language: English C1 minimum Location: Marburg, Germany Who is eligible to apply? The opportunity is aimed at applicants who have completed an above-average university degree, such as a Master’s degree, state examination or equivalent qualification, in a discipline relevant to the research focus of RTG 3159. Relevant academic backgrounds include: Peace and Conflict Studies Gender Studies History Modern German Literature Political Science Law Sociology Theology Economics Applicants from related disciplines may also be considered where their proposed doctoral project fits the research programme and interdisciplinary focus of the Research Training Group. Preferred academic background Previous knowledge of the Research Training Group’s core research areas is advantageous. In particular, candidates with experience or academic knowledge in international or international criminal law, transitional justice and gender studies are encouraged to apply. The position is designed for researchers interested in developing an interdisciplinary doctoral project and contributing to a broader academic research environment. Language requirements Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency at a minimum C1 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. Knowledge of German is considered an advantage. Candidates who do not already speak German may still be considered, with a willingness to learn the language regarded positively. Research and academic expectations Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate a strong commitment to academic excellence and interdisciplinary cooperation. Team spirit and the ability to work collaboratively are also important requirements. The doctoral researcher will be expected to pursue their own scientific qualification through the development and completion of a doctoral research project aligned with the Research Training Group’s overall research agenda. What the University of Marburg offers The doctoral opportunity provides more than a research position, with successful candidates joining a structured academic environment designed to support doctoral development. Benefits include: A doctoral research opportunity in an international and interdisciplinary environment Structured doctoral supervision An individually composed Thesis Advisory Committee An individual qualification and supervision programme Support tailored to the candidate’s doctoral project Access to academic and professional development resources A collegial and family-friendly research environment An LGBTIQ+-inclusive academic environment Doctoral researchers will also have access to support from the Marburg University Research Academy, International Office, Family Service and offices responsible for higher education didactics. Salary and employment conditions The position is offered on a 75% part-time basis with remuneration at E 13 TV-H. The employment is scheduled to begin on 1 February 2027 and continue until 31 January 2031. The four-year period provides successful candidates with an extended framework within which to conduct doctoral research, participate in the Research Training Group and complete their scientific qualification. Required application documents Applicants must submit their applications in either German or English. The application package should include a detailed outline of the proposed doctoral project. The research proposal must: Be no more than 10 pages, including the work and time schedule and bibliography Present an innovative research question Align with the RTG’s topic and research programme Be suitable for interdisciplinary collaboration Applicants must also provide a writing sample of no more than 25 pages. Examples of acceptable writing samples include selected chapters from a Master’s thesis, a seminar or research paper, an academic article or a relevant blog entry. Additional documents include: Letter of motivation Academic certificates and qualifications Curriculum vitae Evidence of academic activities, where applicable Transcript of records Proof of English language proficiency at C1 level or above One academic letter of recommendation or the first examiner’s report for the Master’s thesis Candidates should ensure that documents are complete and clearly demonstrate how their academic background and proposed research align with RTG 3159. Selection process The selection process will include digital interviews with shortlisted applicants. According to the announcement, interviews are expected to take place between late October and early November 2026. Applicants should therefore remain available during this period if selected for the next stage. Commitment to diversity and inclusion Philipps-Universität Marburg states that it supports women and strongly encourages women to apply. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants may receive preference where qualifications are equal. The university also welcomes applicants with children and highlights its status as a family-friendly university. Applicants with disabilities covered under the relevant provisions of Germany’s Social Security Code will also receive preference where qualifications are equal. How to apply Interested candidates should prepare the complete application package and submit it by 4 October 2026. The proposed doctoral project is a particularly important part of the application, as it must demonstrate an innovative research question and a clear connection with the RTG’s research programme. Applicants should carefully review the official Research Training Group information before preparing their proposal. Important deadline The application deadline is 4 October 2026. Candidates interested in pursuing a doctoral career in Germany are encouraged to begin preparing their research proposal and supporting documents well in advance, particularly because the proposal has specific page and content requirements. Contact for more information For further information about the doctoral position and RTG 3159, applicants can contact: Prof. Dr. Stefanie BockTelephone: +49 6421-28 23119Email: rtg3159@uni-marburg.de Further information about Research Training Group 3159 is available through the official University of Marburg website. Why this PhD opportunity is worth considering This opportunity offers qualified graduates the chance to pursue doctoral research within an interdisciplinary international environment while receiving structured supervision and academic development support. The research areas covered by the position make it particularly relevant to candidates interested in peace and conflict, gender, transitional justice, international criminal law, political science, sociology, law and related fields. The combination of a four-year doctoral employment period, E13 TV-H remuneration, structured supervision and an international research environment makes the opportunity attractive to early-career researchers seeking to build an academic career in Germany. SEE FULL TEXT HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organisation offering this doctoral position. The opportunity is offered by Philipps-Universität Marburg through Research Training Group 3159. Applicants should verify the latest eligibility requirements, employment conditions, research focus and application procedures through the official university website before applying. JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW