Senior Research Fellow (Postdoc) (d/f/m)

European security and integration are undergoing profound transformations in response to geopolitical shifts. The law and governance of security and defence in Europe are being reshaped, affecting inter alia actors, tools, decision‑making, financial arrangements, and international cooperation. The Max Planck Research Group ENSURE (European Security Revisited) led by Dr Carolyn Moser is exploring these changes through interdisciplinary research that combines legal analysis with political science and other disciplines. ENSURE’s research portfolio spans democracy, accountability, diplomacy, and capability. The new Senior Research Fellow (PostDoc) will complement these strands by focusing on law and governance questions related to technology (e.g. cyber, AI) and critical infrastructure (e.g. energy, supply chain security).

Job Description

We are seeking an enthusiastic Senior Research Fellow (PostDoc) to conduct innovative research in the fields of international and European law and governance, focusing specifically on EU security matters. The successful candidate will develop and lead their own multi‑year research project(s), aligned with ENSURE’s agenda, and contribute to joint projects, publications and academic events. There are no formal teaching requirements attached to this position.

Profile and requirements

• A completed PhD in law or political science (ideally related to the research topic of the group)
• Publication record commensurate with the level of the position
• Outstanding analytical and writing skills
• Excellent command of written and spoken English; command of German or French is an advantage
• Versatile team player, able to handle deadlines
• Experience with matters of technology and critical infrastructure are a plus.

Conditions of employment

• The position is to be filled as soon as possible.
• The initial appointment will be for 1 year, on a full time basis (39 h/week), with the possibility of renewal based on funding.
• The salary and social benefits are determined in accordance with salary group 14 of the German public service pay scheme (TVöD‑Bund).
• The workplace is Heidelberg, Germany (remote work options are available).
• The successful candidate will join a dynamic and interdisciplinary team that forms part of a vibrant international research community at one of Europe’s most renowned public law institutes that offers outstanding research conditions.
• 30 days of vacation entitlement, 31 days from 2027, additional days off on Christmas Eve (December 24) and New Year's Eve (December 31).
• Subsidised job ticket for public transport.
• A workplace that is easy to reach by public transport and free employee parking spaces.

Application

The Max Planck Society has set itself the goal of employing more people with severe disabilities. Applications from severely disabled persons are expressly encouraged. The Max Planck Society strives for gender equality and diversity. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society aims to increase the proportion of women in areas where they are under‑represented. Women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply.

How to apply

Have We Sparked Your Interest? Please Submit Your Application Using Exclusively The Online Application System On Our Website. Make Sure To Submit Your Documents In Two Separate Files

• your CV and
• a single PDF for all remaining files.

The application deadline is Sunday, 19th April 2026 (midnight, CET).

Applications Should Include The Following Documents

• CV, including a list of publications
• Research proposal (max. 3 pages) outlining the candidate’s research agenda (including methods) and its connection with the research group
• Copies of academic records
• Up to three manuscripts, such as a chapter of the PhD thesis or an article (max. 50 pages in total)
• Contact details of up to two academic referees

Contact information

For inquiries about the group or the position, please contact Dr Carolyn Moser or her assistant Rocío Bargon Sánchez at