PhD Position in Forest and Environmental Policy (f/m/d) at the Excellence Cluster Future Forest[...]

PhD Position in Forest and Environmental Policy (f/m/d) at the Excellence Cluster Future Forests, University of Freiburg

NEU

The Excellence Cluster Future Forests at the University of Freiburg invites applications for a PhD position in the project “Decision‑making practices in the case of anticipated disturbances: following institutionalized structures in forest SES governance” (instDMP).

instDMP investigates past, present and future adaptation and transformation pathways by focusing on institutionalized structures in decision‑making practices in forest management in the case of disturbances. The project focuses on forest risk management and fire prevention as examples of a field of practice increasingly challenged to transform and adapt its institutionalized decision‑making practices. It will analyze past institutional trajectories, current decision‑making practices in the Black Forest and Upper Rhine area, and contribute to co‑producing possible future scenarios together with forest stakeholders.

The excellence cluster is dedicated to questions of adaptation and transformation of forests and their societal use in the face of global change. The cluster brings together more than 50 researchers from four faculties and partner institutions. More information:

Your Tasks

• Design and implementation of independent scientific research in instDMP following institutions in decision‑making practices in forest risk management in the case of disturbances;
• Develop a theory‑informed analysis of institutional structures in decision‑making practices within instDMP, including their institutional characteristics, inherent power structures, specific working cultures and dominant understandings of the relationship between people and forests that shape decision‑making processes;
• Collaborate in the area of Practices of Decision Making for Future Forests and other interdisciplinary and international research teams within the cluster;
• Participate in a structured doctoral program, provide regular seminars and progress reports;
• Publish scientific research results and contribute to joint publications and presentations at national and international conferences;
• Actively participate in cluster activities, workshops, and outreach events.

Your Profile

• Academic background: Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Political or Social Sciences, Sociology, Human Geography, Environmental Governance, Anthropology or a closely related field;
• Empirical social research skills: Proven experience with methods of qualitative social science research, e.g. interview techniques, participant observation, ethnographic methods, document analysis;
• Theoretical and analytical skills: Familiarity with theories and concepts relevant to the project, e.g. (critical) institutionalism, assemblage or relational thinking, practice theory, and ability to develop and apply conceptual frameworks, conduct empirical analysis, and synthesize complex findings;
• Inter‑ and transdisciplinary orientation: Enthusiasm or experience to collaborate and co‑produce knowledge in interdisciplinary and international teams as well as with practitioners;
• Project management: Ability to work independently and organisational skills for handling fieldwork logistics, data management, and coordination within the Future Forests consortium;
• Communication: Strong academic writing in English; very good German language skills necessary for fieldwork in German‑speaking regions; ability to present findings to both scientific and policy audiences, including preparation of policy‑relevant briefs.

We Offer

• An exciting interdisciplinary environment within a newly established Excellence Cluster;
• Structured support and supervision for your scientific and career development, including initial University and cluster‑specific onboarding support;
• A diverse, collaborative, and inclusive research community;
• Opportunities for further education, attendance at conferences, and professional networking;
• Flexible working hours and support with work‑life balance;
• Salary according to TV‑L 13;
• An individually allocated budget for project‑related expenses and career development opportunities.

Application

To apply please submit a PDF containing the following documents:

• Cover letter (up to 1,500 words) outlining what motivates you and previous experience qualifying you for the position;
• Curriculum Vitae with list of publications (if applicable);
• Certified copies of your university degree(s) with grades (BA and MA certificate / Diploma certificate and transcript);
• Short summary of your master’s thesis (up to 1,000 words);
• Suggestion of two referees with contact details.

Submit by 20 January 2026 to the application portal of the University of Freiburg. The reference number is .

Contact: Dr. Sylvia Kruse, Chair of Forest and Environmental Policy, University of Freiburg, phone , email

The position is limited to 30 September 2029. Salary will be determined in accordance with E 13 TV‑L.

Recruitment Details

Bewerbungsfrist: 20. Januar 2026

Veröffentlichungsdatum: 11. Dezember 2025

Eintrittstermin: 1. April 2026

Arbeitsumfang: Part‑time position (75 %)

Kennziffer:

Address: Chair of Forest and Environmental Policy, University of Freiburg, Tennebacherstr. 479, 106 Freiburg, Germany.

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