Bilkent University is seeking one postdoctoral and two predoctoral researchers for the ERC Consolidator Grant project COUNSTER, led by Associate Professor Efe Tokdemir in the Department of International Relations. The project investigates government strategies for countering insurgency and terrorism by focusing on the interactions between governments, non-state armed actors (NSAAs), and their constituents. COUNSTER introduces a novel triadic framework to understand the causes and outcomes of government efforts to sever ties between NSAAs and their supporters, employing mixed-method comparative analyses and original data collection.

The postdoctoral position is open to candidates with a PhD in Social/Political Sciences or Computer Science (including those who will defend by Summer 2026). Applicants should have expertise in computational social science methods, including machine learning, large language models, and natural language processing. Experience in International Relations subfields such as peace and conflict studies or security is preferred. Full-time commitment is required. The position offers a competitive salary, subsidized on-campus housing, meal vouchers, private health insurance, and access to campus facilities, with additional support for researchers with children.

The predoctoral positions are for candidates already enrolled in a PhD program in international relations, political science, or a related field. Applicants should have knowledge of or interest in quantitative and computational methods and preferably focus on peace and conflict studies or international security. Full-time commitment is required. The position provides a competitive stipend, meal vouchers, health insurance, and access to campus facilities.

Application deadlines are February 20, 2026, for the postdoctoral position and March 1, 2026, for the predoctoral positions. Applicants should submit a CV, cover letter, contact information for recommenders, and a writing sample via the provided application links. For further information or questions, contact [email protected]. Zoom interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.

This is an excellent opportunity for researchers interested in international relations, political science, computational social science, and conflict studies to join a leading research group at Bilkent University and contribute to innovative research funded by the European Research Council.