Research assistant (PhD student)

Position Details

registration number: ZE-0042-MCAW-wmz-2026

Entry date:

Application deadline:

Salary: E 13 TV-H

Duration: 3 years

Volume of employment: part‑time (65%)

About the Institution

The University of Marburg, founded in 1527, offers a wide range of excellent programs for around 22,000 students and confronts important topics through​ research across a broad spectrum of sciences. The Marburg Centre for the Ancient World (MCAW) hosts the DFG‑funded Research Training Group 2844 "Staging Religious Atmosphere in Ancient Cultures".

Position Overview

At MCAW, twelve part‑time positions (65% of regular working hours) as Research assistant (PhD student) are available. Positions are on a 3‑year contract starting 1 November 2026 with salary and benefits commensurate with a public service position in the state of Hesse, Germany.

Responsibilities

• Scientific services in research and teaching
• Writing a dissertation in the subject area of the Research Training Group
• Active in‑person participation in the activities of the Research Training Group within the supervision and qualification programme

Eligibility Requirements

• Completed academic degree (Master’s, state examination or equivalent) with above‑average success in any of the following subjects: Ancient History, Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Celtic Studies, Christian Archaeology and Byzantine Art History, Classical Archaeology, Egyptology, Greek Studies, Historical‑Comparative Linguistics, Latin Studies, Law (ideally focusing on Roman Law, Medicine, New Testament, Old Testament, Pharmacy, and Religious Studies/History of Religion)
• Ability to work in a team, determination, and readiness for interdisciplinary cooperation
• Basic knowledge of German is desired

Commitment to Doctoral Study

Disposition to own scientific qualification is expected. The position is limited to a period adequate for the completion of a doctoral degree and complies with Section 2 (1) of the German Academic Fixed‑Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG). The appointment offers ample opportunity to conduct the independent scientific research required for a doctorate.

Benefits and Support

• Writing a dissertation in an outstanding research environment with international fellows
• Structured doctoral supervision through a mentoring programme
• Comprehensive self‑guided study and qualification programme that can be shaped individually
• Collegial and family‑friendly working environment
• Training, counselling, and support services from the Marburg University Research Academy (MARA), International Office, and Departments for Education and Human Resources at Philipps University of Marburg

Additional Professional Development

We actively support the professional development of junior researchers through MARA, the International Office, and the Higher Education Didactics Office.

Application Process

Please submit your proposal for a doctoral project, which may stem from the following subjects: Ancient History, Ancient Near Eastern Studies, Celtic Studies, Christian Archaeology and Byzantine Art History, Classical Archaeology, Egyptology, Greek Studies, Historical‑Comparative Linguistics, History of Pharmacy/History of Medicine, Latin Studies, Law focusing on Roman Law, New Testament, Old Testament, and Religious Studies/History of Religion. In addition to the usual documents (cover letter, curriculum vitae with publication list, qualification certificates, proof of academic activities), submit a three‑page proposal (including work plan and timetable) based on a research question of interdisciplinary relevance to the RTG theme. Two letters of recommendation from university teachers, and, if applicable, your thesis, are also required. Interviews will be conducted in person on 23 June 2026.

Contact Information

Contact for more information: Solvejg Langer
Phone: +49 6421‑28 24953
Email: Solvejg‑ ‑marburg.de

Equality and Family‑Friendly Policies

We support women and strongly encourage them to apply. In areas where women are underrepresented, female applicants will be preferred when qualifications are equal. A reduction of working time is possible, supporting work‑life balance.

Disability

Applicants with a disability as described in the Social Security Code (Section 2(2) and (3) of Book IX of the Social Security Code (SGB IX)) will be preferred when qualifications are equal. Application and interview costs are not refundable.

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to equal opportunity for all candidates and comply with all applicable laws regarding hiring and discrimination.