The Professorship of Science & Technology Policy (Prof. Dr. Ruth Müller), based at the Munich Center for Technology in Society (MCTS) and affiliated with the School of Life Sciences, Technical University of Munich, announces an open position for a doctoral researcher in Science & Technology Studies (STS) (TV-L E13, 65%, 3 years, fixed term) as part of the project “Plastics – Publics – Politics”. The position is available immediately and should be filled as soon as possible.
The project “Plastics – Publics – Politics” is part of transdisciplinary research consortium “SubμTrack” (funded by the German BMBF), which explores the toxicological, ecological, social, and political aspects of the growing presence of small plastic particles in human environments and bodies. The project will study how different publics perceive and relate to small plastic particles as a part of human environments and will explore opportunities for social and political action in the face of potentially significant ecological and health effects. The project will employ qualitative social science research methods such as media analysis, interviews with citizen-activists, and focus groups. The project will further foster public dialogue and stakeholder engagement.
As a doctoral researcher, you will work on the project with your supervisor, Prof. Dr. Ruth Müller. You will be part of the Science & Technology Policy research group at the MCTS, a collaboratively oriented research group. You will interact with the “SubμTrack” consortium partners, who come from a range of different academic disciplines and public and private organizations. You will develop an innovative research question for you PhD thesis as part of the project, together with your supervisor. You will regularly meet with your supervisor to discuss and support the progress of your thesis. Beyond the group, you will be part of an inspiring and lively STS research community at the MCTS. You will actively participate in the academic life at the center, present your work at international academic meetings, gain initial experiences in teaching and academic publication, and assist in the organization of academic events and other activities of the group. As a PhD student, you will be enrolled in the TUM Graduate School, which provides a structured PhD program and offers a rich program of courses in academic and transferable skills.
Job requirements include, among others: a Master’s degree in the social sciences, humanities, or the life sciences; familiarity with STS and experience with social science research methods (desirable); interest in working across the disciplines and in engaging with other knowledge cultures.
The application deadline is October 10, 2017.
For further information, check the full job posting (PDF).