PhD Position (Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in) in Musicology – Department Kunst und Musik, University of Cologne
The University of Cologne, one of Europe’s largest and oldest universities, invites applications for a PhD position (Wissenschaftliche*r Mitarbeiter*in) in Musicology within the Department Kunst und Musik, Humanwissenschaftliche Fakultät. The faculty unites four departments, including Education and Social Sciences, Psychology, Special Education and Rehabilitation, and the Department of Art and Music, with a central focus on the human experience in various contexts. The Department Kunst und Musik emphasizes education, mediation, and a broad cultural understanding of music.
This position is based in the area of Musicology under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Gesa Finke. The successful candidate will develop an independent research project in musicology with a focus on cultural history, preferably in the field of musicological script research. Responsibilities include teaching (4 SWS) in music mediation, music teaching, and aesthetic education programs, supporting the development of future research projects, assisting in event organization, and designing and implementing practical projects in music mediation.
The position offers a research-intensive and practice-oriented academic environment, a diverse and equitable workplace, support for work-life balance, flexible working models, extensive professional development opportunities, health management programs, and the possibility of remote work. The University of Cologne is committed to equal opportunity and diversity, encouraging applications from all backgrounds and identities. Women are given preference according to LGG NRW regulations.
The full-time position (39.83 hours/week) is available from 1 April 2026 and is fixed-term until 31 March 2029. Remuneration is according to Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L, subject to personal and tariff conditions. Applicants must hold a completed Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant music-related field (musicology, music mediation, music teaching, etc.), demonstrate independent work, commitment, communication and teamwork skills, and ideally have interest or experience in cultural studies, gender studies, or musicological script research, as well as in developing music mediation projects.
Applications should be submitted online with all required documents and proof of qualifications (without a photo) via the university’s job portal by 18 January 2026, quoting reference Wiss2512-22. For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Gesa Finke at [email protected].
