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Sebastian Becker-Genschow

2 weeks ago

PhD Position in Digital Education and AI Chatbots in STEM Teaching University of Cologne in Germany

Degree Level

PhD

Field of study

Computer Science

Funding

Available

Deadline

Sep 30, 2026

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Country

Germany

University

University of Cologne

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Keywords

Computer Science
Education
Didactic
Chemistry
Information Technology
Biology
Mathematics
Artificial Intelligence
Human-computer Interaction
Educational Technology
Stem Education
Science Education
Scholarly Publishing
Digital Learning
Physics
ML

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About this position

The University of Cologne is advertising a PhD position in Digital Education within the Department of Didactics of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. The role is embedded in a dynamically growing research group focused on artificial intelligence in education, especially the use of (generative) AI-based technologies to support teaching and learning processes. The project aims to generate evidence on the effectiveness of configured AI chatbots and how such tools can be transferred into school practice and teacher education.

This is a student-oriented doctoral opportunity for candidates interested in research at the intersection of digital education, STEM education, educational technology, and AI. The successful applicant will conduct an independent research project on AI chatbots in STEM teaching, analyze and visualize research data, publish findings in academic journals, and contribute to the transfer of results into teacher training. Teaching duties amount to 3 SWS, and the position also includes participation in the group’s activities.

The post is based at the University of Cologne, one of Europe’s largest and oldest universities, located in Cologne, Germany. The research environment is described as supportive and innovative, with close supervision, personal development opportunities, and access to national and international conferences, training, flexible working arrangements, and mobile work options.

Eligibility highlights: applicants need a completed Master’s or Diplom degree in biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, or mathematics, with at least a “good” grade. Strong German writing/speaking skills and very good English are required. The ad also emphasizes interest in didactics and generative AI, strong self-management, teamwork, communication, organizational skills, and a clear willingness to pursue scientific qualification and publish actively.

Funding and contract: the position is paid according to TV-L E13, subject to the relevant collective agreement and personal requirements. It is part-time (29.87 hours/week), starts on 2027-01-15, and is initially limited to 3 years with the option of extension.

Application deadline: 2026-09-30. Applications must be submitted online via the University of Cologne job portal with a cover letter, CV, and supporting certificates/documents. The reference number is Wiss2608-17.

Funding details

Available

What's required

Applicants must have a Master’s or Diplom degree in a subject or teacher-education program in biology, chemistry, physics, computer science, or mathematics with at least a grade of “good” (Gut). Very good German language skills in spoken and written form and very good English skills are required. The post also asks for interest in didactic questions and generative AI, strong motivation, independent working ability, teamwork, communication and organizational skills, and the willingness to pursue academic qualification and active publication.

How to apply

Apply online via the University of Cologne job portal. Upload a cover letter stating your motivation, CV, certificates, and proof of the required qualifications; do not include a photo. Use the reference number Wiss2608-17 and submit before 2026-09-30.

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