Two Postdoctoral Positions in Postcolonial Hierarchies, Peace and Conflict, and Security Governance (University of Bayreuth) University of Bayreuth in Germany

The University of Bayreuth is offering two postdoctoral positions within the 'Postcolonial Hierarchies in Peace and Conflict: New Forms of Security Governance and Peacebuilding' project, based at the Chair for Sociology in Africa. The research network focuses on understanding how postcolonial hierarchies shape contemporary conflict dynamics, security governance, and peacebuilding, with a particular emphasis on Africa and the Global South.

Position 1 ('South-South security arrangements and practices') is a full-time, two-year postdoc role. The successful candidate will research intra-African military cooperation and engagement with security partners from the Global South and East, such as Colombia, China, Turkey, the Gulf states, or Russia. The position welcomes innovative research on military arrangements, expertise exchange, security force assistance, conflict mediation, or provision of equipment, with flexibility for different regional emphases within Africa.

Position 2 ('Transnational Professionals in/from the Global South') is a 75% FTE, one-year postdoc (potentially extendable). This role focuses on how transnational security and aid professionals from the Global South adapt, challenge, and transform professional practices in changing global contexts. Applicants should have prior research on transnational security and/or aid professionals and be ready to contribute to a special issue or edited volume, as well as to the consortium’s outreach activities.

Both positions require a completed PhD in International Relations, Political Science, Sociology, Conflict Studies, or related fields by the start of employment. Candidates must demonstrate a strong research profile relevant to the thematic foci, excellent English skills, and strong writing abilities. Editorial experience is a plus for Position 2. Participation in group events and interdisciplinary cooperation within the Postcolonial Hierarchies consortium is expected.

The University of Bayreuth offers an international, interdisciplinary, and multilingual work environment, with English as the working language. The research group is part of the largest hub of African Studies in Europe, including the Institute of African Studies and the Cluster of Excellence Africa Multiple. The university values diversity and is committed to gender equality, encouraging applications from women and those with children. Persons with disabilities will be given preferential consideration if equally qualified.

Funding is provided through the E 13, TV-L salary scale (100% for Position 1, 75% for Position 2), with additional support for project-related research expenses and travel. The application deadline is 17 April 2026. Applications should be submitted online via the University of Bayreuth’s portal, quoting the reference code 'Hierarchies'. Required documents include a research outline, writing sample, CV with references, and proof of PhD. For further inquiries, contact Professor Jana Hönke at [email protected].