Postdoctoral Researcher in Comparative Area Studies with a Focus on Sub-Saharan Africa Charles University in

Charles University (Faculty of Arts, Prague, Czech Republic) is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher in Comparative Area Studies with a focus on Sub-Saharan Africa through the Centre for Multidisciplinary Area Studies (CenMAS) and the ERA Chair in Multidisciplinary Area Studies project (ERA-AREAS).

The position is part of a Horizon Europe-funded research environment and is designed for scholars working at the intersection of area studies and social science approaches. The successful candidate will join an international research group and work closely with the ERA Chair Holder, Prof. Mariana Llanos, the Project Coordinator, Prof. Karel Kouba, and the research group leader, Dr. Mahmoud Farag.

Research themes include the causes and consequences of contemporary crises in Sub-Saharan Africa, such as political crises, economic shocks, coups, democratic breakdowns, social protests, early government terminations, threats to democracies, and political violence. The post emphasizes comparative methods, causal inference, and regionally grounded research that can speak to broader global debates. The disciplinary focus is flexible, with sociology, political science, economics, contemporary history, and anthropology highlighted as especially relevant.

This is a full-time, fixed-term postdoctoral appointment for two years, with the possibility of extension. The salary is 2,000–2,600 EUR per month (take-home pay approx. 1,600–2,040 EUR). The role also includes limited teaching duties, publication expectations, external grant development, and engagement with policy, media, and public outreach. Limited travel support for conferences is available, and relocation support may assist with visa, housing, and healthcare registration.

Eligibility highlights: a completed Ph.D. (or equivalent) in a relevant social science discipline, awarded no more than five years before the deadline, strong English proficiency, international publication record, and demonstrated ability to work across disciplinary boundaries. If the Ph.D. is not yet completed by the deadline, it must be finished by 1 April 2027 and supported by a supervisor confirmation letter.

Deadline: 14 September 2026 at 23:59 CEST. Start date: 1 April 2027.

How to apply: Submit the online application form and upload a single PDF containing your CV, cover letter/supporting statement, work sample, publication list, and two referees’ contact details. Include the supervisor confirmation letter if applicable.