Research Associate (Doctoral Student) (m/f/x) in Entrepreneurship and Family Enterprise

TUM School of Management at TUM Campus Heilbronn invites applications for a Research Associate (m/f/x) at the level of TV‑L E13 (public sector pay scale) at the Global Center for Family Enterprise (Prof. Dr. Miriam Bird). Expected starting date is mid‑April 2026 or by mutual agreement. The research associate (doctoral student) is expected to work and conduct research in the area of entrepreneurship and family enterprise while participating in the doctoral program. The position is limited to 36 months (extension for another 12 months possible).

About Us

Founded in 2002, TUM School of Management is part of TUM, one of the leading technical universities in the world. It is a University of Excellence and is known for strong research environment and close ties to industry. The school is building a unique bridge between management and technology and the TUM Campus Heilbronn is a dynamic organization that aims for excellence in research, teaching and impact.

Your Tasks

• Conduct research under the supervision of Prof. Dr. Miriam Bird with a focus on entrepreneurship and family business at one of Europe’s leading universities, on topics such as entrepreneurial teams, sustainable entrepreneurship, or the role of AI in entrepreneurship.
• Contribute to teaching activities at the Global Center for Family Enterprise at TUM Campus Heilbronn.
• Actively participate in the doctoral program of the TUM School of Management.
• Support third‑party funded research projects.

We Offer

• The opportunity to gain, create, and share knowledge on current topics in entrepreneurship and family business at a leading European university.
• The chance to actively engage with the international research community.
• Access to comprehensive training programs and individualized development support to foster your academic growth.
• An inspiring, dynamic, and multidisciplinary research environment in a high‑tech region, shaped by innovative German Mittelstand, offering excellent research conditions and a high quality of life.

We Look For

• A person with a high level of independence combined with strong team skills.
• A strong Master’s degree (with very good grades) in a relevant field such as management, entrepreneurship, economics, (organizational) psychology, finance, or business informatics.
• Ideally having academic or practical experience in the field of entrepreneurship and/or family business.
• Possessing solid knowledge of empirical research methods, ideally in quantitative, qualitative, or experimental research designs, with knowledge of Python, Stata or R.
• Demonstrating proficiency in data collection, processing, and analysis, preferably using innovative methods such as natural language processing.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; knowledge of German is an asset but not required.

Application

Please send a cover letter (specifying a possible starting date), your CV and relevant university and work certificates in one PDF file until February 11, 2026 to For further information about this position, please contact Ms. Angelina Haag ( ).

The position is suitable for disabled persons and will be given preference to disabled applicants if otherwise essentially equal suitability, ability and professional performance apply. TUM is an equal‑opportunity employer and encourages applications from women and others who would bring additional diversity dimensions to the university. The position can also be filled as a part‑time position.

Data Protection Information

By applying to a position with the Technical University of Munich (TUM), you are submitting personal information. Please note the data protection information pursuant to Art. 13 of the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). By submitting your application, you confirm that you have acknowledged the above data protection information of TUM.