The DFG Cluster of Excellence TransforM at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) is inviting applications for 1-2 doctoral or postdoctoral positions to help develop and run the Startup-Industrial-Exchange Hub (SIX). This research infrastructure aims to connect academic research on transformation and innovation with the Munich innovation ecosystem, including partners such as UnternehmerTUM and the Rise Europe network. The positions are ideal for candidates interested in linking research to real-world problems faced by individuals and organizations, and in building a vibrant research infrastructure in collaboration with TransforM.

TransforM is a leading center for social science research on transformative technologies and societal change, funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG). The SIX hub will serve as a bi-directional interface with the Munich innovation ecosystem, closely connected to the TUM Entrepreneurship Research Institute and UnternehmerTUM, and will leverage ties with leading innovation initiatives and companies such as BMW, Siemens, Google, and others. Researchers will have the opportunity to work in a highly interdisciplinary and international environment, collaborating with top academic and industry partners across Europe.

Candidates should have strong backgrounds in management, economics, or related disciplines, with good German and English language skills, methodological and conceptual proficiency, and an interest in teaching and working with corporate organizations and entrepreneurship hubs. Networking skills and interest or expertise in technological and political (especially EU) domains are also valued. The positions are open to both doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, and applications from women and disabled persons are encouraged.

Funding is provided through fixed-term contracts (up to three years, with possible extension), with pay grades from 50% to 100% E13. TransforM is funded for seven years initially, and contract details are negotiable. The research environment is vibrant and well-resourced, offering significant opportunities for career development in Germany, Europe, and worldwide.

To apply, candidates should send a single PDF (surname_six.pdf) including a cover letter, a one-pager with their idea(s) for SIX, and a CV (max three pages, including up to three most generative publications) to [email protected]. The deadline is March 15, 2026, but applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. For questions, contact Professor Holger Patzelt at [email protected].

For more information, visit the TransforM Cluster website or the linked job advertisement. This is a unique opportunity to join a leading research initiative at the intersection of management, economics, innovation, and entrepreneurship, and to contribute to the development of transformative technologies and societal change.