About the opportunity
The Faculty of Arts and Humanities at the University of Cologne invites applications for a Doctoral Researcher to study the development of university-level computer science education in Brazil during the 1960s and 1970s. This role forms part of the ERC-funded project “Wired History. Computers, Humans, and the Making of Latin American Futures, 1950s–2000s” (WIRED), led by Professor Dr. Debora Gerstenberger in the Department of History. The project explores how people and digital technologies shaped future-oriented projects and institutions in Latin America since the mid-20th century, combining approaches from the history of computing, Science and Technology Studies (STS), and social, political, economic, and cultural history. The successful candidate will conduct independent research, complete a monograph, contribute to a co-authored project monograph, and carry out archival research in Brazil and internationally.
Salary and benefits
- Salary based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector, subject to meeting relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications
- Excellent research conditions within a dynamic and innovative team
- Diverse working environment with equal opportunities and occupational health management offers
- Support in balancing work and family life along with flexible working time models
- Extensive advanced training opportunities
Who can apply?
- Master of Arts in History or a closely related discipline such as Social/Cultural Anthropology, Cultural Studies, or Media Studies
- Master's dissertation completed with excellent marks and demonstrated research potential
- Expertise in or strong interest in archival research
- Expertise in or strong interest in the history of computing, history of technology, Science and Technology Studies, and/or Latin American history
- Excellent proficiency in English and Portuguese; willingness to learn German is an advantage
- Willingness to undertake extended research stays in Brazil
- Strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to work both independently and collaboratively
Required documents
- Cover letter explaining motivation and suitability to participate in the research group
- Curriculum vitae
- Writing sample such as an MA thesis or recent article
- List of publications if applicable
- Copies of certificates without a photo
- Names and contact details of two referees who can be contacted via email or telephone
When to apply
- Application deadline is 04 November 2026
- Interviews will take place in November or December 2026
- Position is available from 15 February 2027
How to apply
- Prepare all required application documents including cover letter, CV, writing sample, publication list, and certificates
- Submit your application online through the University of Cologne job portal at https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de referencing number Wiss2609-08
- Provide the contact details of two referees as requested
Additional information
- The reference number for this position is Wiss2609-08
- The position is offered on a part-time basis at 25.89 hours per week
- The fixed-term contract runs until 14 February 2031
- Women will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- An ideal match for researchers holding a master's degree in history or related cultural studies with a strong academic record and a focus on Latin American history or the history of technology.
- Well-suited for candidates with professional or academic proficiency in both English and Portuguese who are enthusiastic about conducting international archival fieldwork in Brazil.
- Provides an exceptional structured doctoral environment within a major European university backed by a prestigious ERC grant.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is offered on a part-time basis of 25.89 hours per week rather than a full-time schedule.
- Extended research stays in Brazil are required, which will involve relocation or significant periods away from Cologne.
- Applicants must be comfortable collaborating closely within a multi-member research team while also independently producing a doctoral monograph.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position directly supports candidates aiming to complete a funded European doctorate in history while gaining international research experience, publishing in peer-reviewed journals, and collaborating on high-profile European Research Council projects.
Our take
Early-career historians and social scientists with strong Portuguese and English language skills and a background in Latin American studies or technology history should strongly consider applying before the November deadline.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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