The University of Cologne, one of Europe’s largest and oldest universities, invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher (f/m/x) position within the MESH - Multidisciplinary Environmental Studies in the Humanities program, specifically in the Collaborative Research Centre CRC TRR228 “Future Rural Africa.” This opportunity is part of Project A04 Future Conservation, focusing on social-ecological transformations in the Zambezi Floodplains of western Zambia.

The successful candidate will develop a PhD project centered on future conservation, with a strong emphasis on environmental anthropology and ethnographic fieldwork. The position involves conducting 12-15 months of fieldwork in Zambia, collecting and analyzing data, and presenting findings through reports, lectures, publications, and community-centered dissemination. The researcher will participate in regular project meetings and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams within the CRC, as well as support the organization of academic and policy events such as conferences and workshops.

Applicants must hold a completed Master’s degree (MA) in Social and Cultural Anthropology or a related discipline. Required qualifications include expertise in environmental anthropology, experience in empirical social science research (preferably with ethnographic methods), and a keen interest in interdisciplinary research and teamwork. Candidates should be willing to conduct extended fieldwork in south-central Africa and learn the local vernacular Silozi. Excellent English proficiency is mandatory, while knowledge of German or willingness to learn it is desirable. A driver’s licence is also required.

The University of Cologne offers a diverse working environment with equal opportunities, support for work-life balance, advanced training, occupational health management, flexible working models, and remote work options. The position is part-time (27.88 hours per week), available from 1 April 2026, and is fixed-term until 31 December 2029. Salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the German public sector pay scale. The university actively promotes diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, with preferential consideration for women under the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia.

To apply, submit your application online via the University of Cologne job portal, referencing Wiss2512-16, and include proof of required qualifications (without a photo). The application deadline is 18 January 2026. For further inquiries, contact Professor Dr Franz Krause at [email protected].