Doctoral Position (f/m/x) – History of Computing in Brazil at University of Cologne – Cologne, Germany

Summary

The University of Cologne is hiring a Doctoral Researcher (f/m/x) for 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 successful candidate will investigate the development of university-level computer science education in Brazil during the 1960s and 1970s. Key tasks include carrying out archival research in Brazil and internationally, publishing peer-reviewed articles, writing a monograph, and contributing a chapter to a joint project monograph. The position starts on 15 February 2027 on a part-time basis (25.89 hours per week) until 14 February 2031, with salary based on the 13 TV-L German public sector scale. The application deadline is 2026-11-04.

Key Facts

Department	Department of History
Position Type	Doctoral Researcher
Discipline	History
Research Area	History of computing in Brazil
Degree Required	Master's degree
Experience	MA dissertation with excellent marks
Salary	Remuneration group 13 TV-L of the German public sector pay scale
Funding	ERC-funded project
Contract Duration	Fixed term from 15 February 2027 to 14 February 2031
Language	English and Portuguese
Deadline	2026-11-04
Required Documents	Cover letter, Curriculum Vitae, Writing sample (MA thesis or recent article), List of publications (if applicable), Copies of certificates without photo, Names and contact details of two referees
Employer Contact	[email protected]

About the Project

The ERC-funded project 'Wired History' explores how people and digital technologies shaped future-oriented projects and institutions in Latin America from the mid-20th century onward. By combining history of computing, Science and Technology Studies (STS), and cultural/political/social history, the project examines practices of future-making and their social and material impacts.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research on the history of computer science education in Brazil
• Complete a research monograph
• Contribute a chapter to a co-authored team monograph
• Perform archival research in Brazil and internationally
• Participate in research group activities such as reading groups and workshops
• Present research at international conferences and workshops
• Publish research articles in peer-reviewed journals
• Help organize project activities including workshops, guest visits, website maintenance, and social media

Required Skills

• MA in History or a closely related discipline with excellent marks
• Interest or expertise in archival research
• Interest or expertise in history of computing, history of technology, STS, or Latin American history
• Excellent proficiency in English and Portuguese
• Willingness to undertake extended research stays in Brazil
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively on an international research team

Who Should Apply

Candidates holding a Master's degree in History or a closely related field (such as Social/Cultural Anthropology, Cultural Studies, or Media Studies) with excellent marks on their MA dissertation should apply. Applicants must have strong research skills or interest in archival research and the history of computing/technology/STS or Latin American history, excellent proficiency in English and Portuguese, and a willingness to undertake extended research trips to Brazil.

Benefits

• Excellent research conditions in a dynamic and innovative team
• Diverse working environment with equal opportunities
• Support for balancing work and family life
• Extensive advanced training opportunities
• Occupational health management offers
• Flexible working time models

About the Employer

The University of Cologne is one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe, located in Cologne, Germany, offering a dynamic research environment across a broad range of subjects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

The deadline to submit applications is 04 November 2026.

When does the position start and how long does it last?

The position begins on 15 February 2027 and is fixed-term until 14 February 2031.

What language skills are required?

Applicants must have excellent proficiency in English and Portuguese. Willingness to learn German is considered an advantage.

What is the weekly working hours policy for this position?

The position is offered on a part-time basis of 25.89 hours per week.

Who should be contacted for further inquiries?

Inquiries can be sent to Professor Dr Debora Gerstenberger at [email protected].