The Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in the profile areas Light – Life – Liberty, which provide pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments. With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, it defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation.

The Institute of Political Science seeks to fill the position of a

Research Assistant in the field of International Organizations

commencing on 1 April 2026. We offer a part-time position (50%/20 hours per week), initially offered as a fixed-term position until 31 March 2029.

The position is located at the Chair of Political Science and International Organizations headed by Prof. Dr. Christian Kreuder-Sonnen. Our research and teaching activities primarily address questions regarding the role and function of international institutions in the context of global governance, the exercise of political authority beyond the nation-state, crisis politics and crisis management of international organizations, as well as the legitimation problems of the liberal international order.

Your responsibilities:

• Independent design and delivery of classes in the subject area of the Chair (2 contact hours per week)
• Support for the Chair’s research activities, e.g., contribution to publication projects and third-party funding applications
• Participation in administrative tasks of the Chair, in particular in the context of the Master’s program “International Organizations and Crisis Management (IOCM)”
• Work on your own academic qualification project (e.g., doctoral dissertation)

Your profile:

• Completed university degree (Master’s, Diploma, or Magister) in political science, international relations, social sciences, or a related discipline (or close to completion)
• Very good knowledge of foundational theories and current research on international institutions and global governance
• Strong knowledge of qualitative and/or quantitative social science methods
• Excellent command of English and the ability to teach in English are required; good German skills are an asset
• Desirable qualifications include experience in academic research, publication and teaching, as well as with Model United Nations or other simulation formats

We offer:

• Remuneration based on the provisions of the Collective Agreement for the Public Sector of the Federal States (TV-L) at salary scale 13, including a special annual payment in accordance with the collective agreement and 30 days of vacation per calendar year plus two days off on December 24 and 31
• Collaboration within national and international research networks with leading universities and institutes
• Space to develop your own academic professional profile in research and teaching
• Flexible working hours (by agreement, flexitime, and, if applicable, home office)
• Participation in professional development measures and networks at the FSU (e.g., in the Graduate Academy for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers)
• A family\-friendly working environment with a broad range of services for families\: university family office (JUniFamilie) and flexible childcare (JUniKinder)

The position is initially limited to a duration of three years. A one-time extension for up to two years is possible, subject to suitable performance. This is a part-time position with 50% of the working hours of a full-time employee (20 hours per week).

Candidates with severe disabilities will be given preference in the case of equal qualifications and suitability.

Are you eager to work with us? Please submit your application by 30.11.2025 via our online application form, including the usual documents (cover letter, CV, outline of the planned doctoral project [2–3 pages], academic transcripts/certificates, list of publications if applicable, proof of language skills) and the contact details of up to two academic referees.