PhD Candidate – Project Assistant (Cooking, Gender, and Culinary Narratives) University of Graz in Austria

The University of Graz invites applications for a PhD Candidate (Project Assistant without a Ph.D.) to join the Department of History, focusing on the research project “Cooking, Gender, and Culinary Narratives: Global Perspectives on Cookbooks and Cultural Heritage.” This interdisciplinary project is situated in Contemporary History and led by Professor Christiane Berth. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research at the intersection of history, gender studies, and culinary narratives, with a strong emphasis on global perspectives, particularly the Americas and the Mediterranean region.

As a PhD candidate, you will work closely with fellows involved in the project, engaging in communication, feedback exchange, and mutual support. Your responsibilities include contributing to publication activities, organizing academic events during visits of external fellows, and participating in the research core area “Trans-Mediterranean Entanglements” at the Faculty of Humanities. The role is designed for candidates with a passion for interdisciplinary research, especially in gender studies and digital food studies.

Applicants must hold a master’s degree with excellent results in history or a related field (ethnology, cultural and social anthropology, literary studies, or Latin American studies). Language proficiency is essential: excellent German and English (C1) and good to very good Spanish (B2 or higher). Desirable qualifications include experience abroad, event organization, and knowledge of gender history or the history of food and consumption. The application requires an academic CV, motivation letter, a two-page dissertation outline, certificates (including language proof), and a PDF of your master’s thesis.

The position offers an annual gross salary of at least €52,865.40 (full-time, 30 hours/week), with the possibility of overpayment based on qualifications and experience. The contract is temporary for 15 months, starting November 2, 2026. The University of Graz provides a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive working environment, with benefits such as access to healthcare, flexible working models, and internal continuing education. The institution actively encourages applications from women and persons with disabilities, and prioritizes qualified women in cases of underrepresentation.

Applications must be submitted via the university’s web-based applicant tool by July 7, 2026. For academic inquiries, contact Professor Christiane Berth at [email protected]. Join a collaborative and forward-thinking academic community dedicated to addressing future societal challenges.