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University of Kassel

PhD Position in Urban Sociology and Social Structure at University of Kassel University of Kassel in Germany

PhD Position in Urban Sociology and Social Structure at University of Kassel

Keywords

Sociology
Geography
Urban Planning
Social Structure
Urban Sociology
Stata
Geospatial Analyses
Qualitative Social Research
Quantitative Research Methods
And Urban Studies

Description

The University of Kassel is seeking a PhD researcher to join the project “Social structure and forms of sociality in the new suburbia” within the Institute for Urban Developments, Department of Urban and Regional Sociology, led by Prof. Dr. Carsten Keller. This DFG-funded research project focuses on the analysis of social structures and sociality in suburban environments, with a strong emphasis on both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The successful candidate will be involved in conducting, analyzing, and documenting research using geodata, with tools such as Stata and QGIS, and will participate in the DFG research group “Urban Expansion in Times of Reurbanization – New (Sub-)Urbanity?” Applicants should hold a completed academic degree in social sciences, human geography, urban studies, or urban planning by the start date. Experience in quantitative social research is required, and familiarity with geodata analysis tools is expected, though willingness to learn is sufficient. Good English skills are necessary, and experience in qualitative research or additional language skills are advantageous. The position is part-time (20 hours/week), paid according to EG 13 TV-H, and is fixed-term until December 31, 2027. The University of Kassel offers a supportive, interdisciplinary team environment, professional development opportunities, and a range of public sector benefits, including pension, family support, annual bonus, and free public transport. Applications should be submitted online with the usual documents and reference number. For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Carsten Keller. The application deadline is January 4, 2026. For more information, visit the university's job portal and FAQ pages.

Funding

The position is part-time (currently 20 hours per week) and paid according to EG 13 TV-H (German public sector pay scale). The contract is fixed-term until 31.12.2027. Benefits include public sector advantages such as additional pension (VBL), optional child allowance, family-friendly policies, annual bonus, and subsidized sports and health programs. Public transport is currently free for employees. No explicit mention of tuition or stipend amount.

How to apply

Submit your application with the usual supporting documents and the reference number via the university's online application form. In exceptional cases, applications can be sent by post or email, including the reference number. Refer to the university's FAQ for more details.

Requirements

Applicants must have a completed academic university degree in social sciences, including human geography, urban studies, or urban planning. The required degree must be obtained by the employment start date. Solid experience in quantitative social research is necessary. The project involves analysis of geodata using Stata and QGIS; willingness to learn these tools is expected if not already experienced. Good knowledge and research orientation in urban and regional sociology, and possibly suburban studies, are required. Good English skills are necessary. Experience in qualitative social research and knowledge of an additional foreign language are advantageous.

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