PhD Position in Digital Platform Ecosystems (DFG Research Training Group 2720) at University of Passau University of Passau in Germany

The University of Passau, in cooperation with the German Research Foundation (DFG), offers a unique PhD opportunity within the Research Training Group (RTG) 2720, "Digital Platform Ecosystems (DPE) – Digital platform-based value creation and its implications for data exchange, organisation and socio-economic development." This interdisciplinary programme is dedicated to exploring the foundations and impacts of digital platform ecosystems, which are central to the modern digital economy and society. The RTG draws from a variety of disciplines, including information systems, business administration, economics, and communication science, providing an integrated and systemic perspective on platform-based business models.

The DPE RTG is structured to promote both interdisciplinary openness and deep disciplinary specialisation. Doctoral students benefit from a comprehensive qualification concept embedded in the University of Passau's established structures for young researcher development. The programme aims to foster independent scholars capable of internationally recognised research and prepares them for both academic and non-academic career paths. Supervision is structured through mentoring tandems with principal investigators and external senior mentors, supported by supervision agreements, frequent meetings, and annual self-reports to ensure close mentorship and individual development.

The curriculum includes DPE-specific seminars, off-site events, and the DPE Forum conference, which facilitate scientific exchange and networking within the RTG community and with external audiences. Each doctoral student develops an individual curriculum tailored to their disciplinary needs. The programme also supports extended research visits of up to three months at other institutions and promotes international exchange by inviting distinguished scholars as guest lecturers and awarding Mercator Fellowships to renowned academics for longer research stays in Passau.

International elements are integral to the programme, including guest lecturers, specialist literature in multiple languages, language training, and intercultural skills development. The RTG uses English as its main language, and doctoral supervision and thesis writing can be conducted in English. No tuition fees are charged, and the semester contribution is approximately 120 EUR, covering student services and bus pass fees. Living costs are estimated at a minimum of 992 EUR per month, and international students must demonstrate sufficient funds for visa purposes.

Funding opportunities include scholarships from the International Office for degree-seeking students, the Deutschlandstipendium (300 EUR/month for one year, renewable), and emergency hardship grants for international students. The DFG Research Training Group also provides funding support for doctoral students. Applicants must hold a relevant academic degree (typically a Master's) in fields such as information systems, business administration, economics, communication science, or related disciplines. There are no specific language requirements, but applicants should be able to work in English or German.

Applications are accepted at any time, depending on advertised fellowships. Current vacancies and fellowship announcements are posted on the RTG's website. The University of Passau offers additional support services for international students, including career advisory, accommodation assistance, and cultural preparation. For more information and application instructions, visit the DAAD programme link provided.