The German Institute for Global and Area Studies (GIGA), in collaboration with the University of Hamburg, is inviting applications for a Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d) position within the Cluster of Excellence “Climate, Climatic Change, and Society” (CLICCS II). This exciting opportunity offers early-career researchers the chance to contribute to cutting-edge research on climate change, knowledge co-production, and social transformation in the Global South.

About the Opportunity

The selected Doctoral Researcher will work at the intersection of two key projects:

“Co-creating narrative-based near-term climate predictions to prepare for volatile future climates”

“Varieties of Climate Agency”

These projects explore the role of knowledge co-production, narrative-based climate prediction, and adaptive agency in diverse social contexts. The position is designed for emerging scholars eager to combine academic research with meaningful contributions to global climate governance.

Key Details

Position: Doctoral Researcher (m/f/d)

Institution: GIGA & University of Hamburg

Cluster: Climate, Climatic Change, and Society (CLICCS II)

Contract Type: Part-time (65%)

Duration: 3 years

Start Date: April 1, 2026

Salary: EG 13 TV-AVH / TVöD

Location: Hamburg, Germany

Responsibilities

The Doctoral Researcher will:

• Examine the impact of narrative-based near-term climate predictions on adaptive agency.
• Develop conceptual frameworks for different types of climate agency.
• Conduct a PhD thesis on knowledge co-production in the Global South.
• Contribute to project activities such as workshops, colloquia, and publications.
• Present research findings at academic conferences and contribute to policy discussions.
• Collaborate with an international network of scholars within the CLICCS framework.

Candidate Qualifications

Applicants should meet the following requirements:

• Hold an excellent Master’s degree in the social sciences (e.g. Political Science, International Relations, Sociology, or related fields).
• Have demonstrated interest in climate governance, knowledge systems, or social agency.
• Be familiar with qualitative research methods (interviews, ethnography, participatory approaches).
• Possess strong English communication skills (German is an advantage).
• Demonstrate teamwork, initiative, and the ability to work in interdisciplinary research environments.
• International research experience and familiarity with the Global South are desirable.

Benefits

• Opportunity to pursue a PhD degree as part of the GIGA Doctoral Programme.
• Work in a renowned interdisciplinary research cluster addressing climate and social dynamics.
• Join a diverse and inclusive workplace committed to gender equality and work–life balance.
• Collaborate with prestigious partners, including the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology, Helmholtz Centre Hereon, and the German Climate Computing Centre.

About GIGA and CLICCS

The German Institute for Global and Area Studies (GIGA) is an independent social science research institute based in Hamburg, Germany. It focuses on political, social, and economic developments in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East, linking regional insights to global challenges such as climate change, governance, and inequality.

The Cluster of Excellence “Climate, Climatic Change, and Society” (CLICCS II), led by the University of Hamburg, investigates both climate dynamics and climate-related social transformations, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across the natural and social sciences.

Application Procedure

Submit your application (Ref. No. GIGA-25-11) as one combined PDF document (excluding the application form) including:

• Cover letter
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copies of credentials and diplomas
• Names of at least two referees

Apply Now

Don’t miss this opportunity to contribute to transformative climate research and earn your PhD with one of Europe’s leading research institutes.

Deadline to apply: December 1, 2025
Apply here: Application

For more information: GIGA

For more opportunities: Opportunities for Youth