Academic Research Assistant Position (PhD Candidate) (f/m/d) - Chair of Economic Policy

The Chair of Economic Policy conducts research on the economic, institutional, and societal implications of technological transformation. Current research focuses on topics such as innovation and technological change, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, critical infrastructures, global public goods, sustainability transitions, and international governance. A particular emphasis is placed on understanding how technological competition, systemic risks, and institutional adaptation interact in an increasingly interconnected world. Research combines formal economic modelling with modern empirical methods, including quantitative text analysis, computational social science, causal inference, and policy evaluation. The Chair is embedded in a highly interdisciplinary environment and contributes to several national and international research initiatives. Doctoral researchers benefit from close interaction with scholars from economics, political science, data science, sustainability research, and technology assessment. Your Tasks The position offers the opportunity to pursue doctoral research within an internationally connected and interdisciplinary research environment at the interface of economics, public policy, technological change, and global governance. Your Responsibilities Contribute to ongoing theoretical and empirical research projects of the Chair Develop an independent research agenda with the objective of completing a doctoral dissertation Support the preparation and implementation of Bachelor’s and Master’s courses in German and English Assist in the acquisition and management of research projects and third‑party funding Participate in academic events, workshops, conferences, and research seminars Contribute to selected organizational and administrative activities of the Chair Your Profile Applicants should hold a Master’s degree (or be close to completion) in Economics, Industrial Engineering, Business Economics, Political Economy, Business Mathematics, Data Science, Statistics, or a related discipline. We particularly welcome candidates with an interest in one or more of the following areas: Innovation and technological change Artificial intelligence and digital transformation Global governance and international institutions Sustainability and resilience Political economy Economic policy and regulation Computational social science The successful candidate should have: Strong analytical and quantitative skills Experience with at least some of the following tools: R, Python, LaTeX, Matlab, Mathematica, or related software Excellent English language skills, written and spoken Good German language skills (B2 or higher) or willingness to acquire them The ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an interdisciplinary environment We Offer Science for Impact: Engage with topics of societal relevance—in an excellent scientific environment that enables change. Career‑Building and Developmental Opportunities: We provide you with a structured onboarding program, a broad spectrum of continuing‑education options, and personalised support, thereby fostering your individual growth. Flexible Working Hours: Take advantage of flexible‑hours schemes, remote‑work options, part‑time models, and a 30‑day annual leave entitlement to achieve an optimal work‑life balance. Family‑friendliness: The “KIT‑Family+” program assists you in reconciling work and family life by offering childcare services, holiday activities, a parent‑child office space, and assistance with caring for relatives. Stay Healthy: Under the motto “Fit at KIT – Body, Mind and Soul,” we promote your well‑being through fitness classes, mental‑health programmes, and regular preventive health examinations. Individualised Extra Benefits: Enjoy a corporate pension (VBL), a €25 monthly contribution toward a JobTicketBW, plus a broad selection of cultural and recreational programmes. Job location Karlsruhe (and Eggenstein‑Leopoldshafen) Salary Salary category 13 TV-L; classification is based on personal and professional qualifications. Contract duration until Contact person in line‑management Prof. Dr. Ingrid Ott Questions about the application process Raquel Carrasco Sanchez Personalservice (PSE) At KIT we value the diversity of our employees; different perspectives and backgrounds enrich our work. We therefore welcome applications from all candidates. Women are especially encouraged to apply. Applications from recognized severely disabled individuals are given preferential consideration when qualifications are equal. Application up to: Job posting number: 1146/2026 #J-18808-Ljbffr