Hartmut Leppin

The LOEWE Center "Dynamics of Religion: Ambivalent Neighbourhoods between Judaism, Christianity and Islam in Historical and Contemporary Constellations" is offering 15 PhD positions at Goethe University Frankfurt, in collaboration with Philipps University Marburg and Justus Liebig University Giessen. This interdisciplinary center, funded by the Hessian Ministry of Science and Research, Art, and Culture, focuses on the complex religious, cultural, and socio-political dynamics among Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, both historically and in the present day. The research spans five program areas and 31 subprojects, covering topics such as religious dialogues in late antiquity, interreligious relations, migration, multiculturalism, and the politicization of religious difference. PhD candidates will join an international, interreligious, and interdisciplinary research environment, working on their own research project within one of the subprojects. The positions are based at the Department of Protestant Theology at Goethe University Frankfurt, with coordination by Prof. Christian Wiese and deputies Prof. Armina Omerika and Prof. Antje Röder. Supervisors from various disciplines and partner universities are involved, offering expertise in religious studies, history, philosophy, anthropology, sociology, education, and related fields. Applicants must hold a good academic degree (Master or equivalent) in a relevant field and demonstrate strong theoretical, interdisciplinary, and independent research skills. Excellent English and good to very good German skills (or willingness to acquire them) are required, along with additional language and methodological competencies depending on the subproject. The positions are fully funded (E13 TV-G-U, 65% part-time) until December 31, 2029, with salary and social benefits according to the university's collective agreement. PhD students will participate in the interdisciplinary doctoral program, contribute to collaborative research, and engage in academic events, colloquia, and publications. The center offers excellent mentoring, integration into international networks, and opportunities for professional development in both academic and public engagement contexts. For detailed project descriptions and specific requirements, applicants should consult the project website. Applications, including all usual documents in a single PDF, should be sent by email to [email protected] by January 9, 2026. For further information, contact Prof. Christian Wiese or Prof. Armina Omerika. This is an outstanding opportunity for early-career researchers interested in the study of religion, interreligious dynamics, and their societal implications.