The Sciences Po Centre for History in Paris, France, is offering a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship focused on aerial bombardment during the Spanish Civil War, as part of the European Research Council Advanced Grant project “The Global War on Civilians, 1905-1945.” This two-year, full-time position is designed for scholars with a strong background in historical and archival research, particularly those with expertise in the Spanish Civil War and transnational history.

The successful candidate will join an international team investigating the evolution of warfare targeting civilian populations, including aerial bombardment, civil defense, food blockades, and morale campaigns. The postdoc will research the aerial bombardment of Spanish cities, examining its role as a transnational moment in strategic bombing by German, Italian, and Soviet air forces. Additional topics include the mobilization of civilians, development of home fronts, passive defense measures, air-raid shelters, and the impact on civilian morale in Spain. The project also explores how other nations learned from these events, fostering transnational connections among Britain, France, Germany, Italy, and the Soviet Union.

Reporting directly to Professor Sheldon Garon, the Principal Investigator, the postdoc will conduct extensive archival research in Spain (Barcelona, Madrid, and other bombed cities), and potentially in Italy, Germany, and France. Responsibilities include publishing at least two English-language papers (one in a collective volume edited by the PI), participating in workshops and conferences, collaborating with team members, and assisting with research for the PI’s book, “When Home Fronts Became Battlegrounds: The Global War on Civilians.”

Applicants must have completed their PhD defense before the start date and demonstrate excellent archival research skills, proficiency in Spanish and English, and reading knowledge of Catalan. Knowledge of Italian or German is advantageous. Candidates should have experience in historical data collection, strong writing and communication skills, and a collaborative approach. Legal permission to work in the European Union is required. Sciences Po is committed to diversity and encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups.

The position is funded by the ERC, with a temporary contract for 24 months and affiliation with Sciences Po in Paris. While the researcher may reside in Paris, preference is given to those based in Spain due to the emphasis on Spanish archival research. Applications should include a letter of application, CV, scanned diplomas/certificates, final dissertation report, and contact information for two academic references, submitted by email to [email protected] by 15 January 2026. Interviews will be held by 1 March 2026, and the expected start date is 1 May 2026.

For further details, visit the position link or the Sciences Po Centre for History website.