PhD Position in Energy Cultures in Transition, TU Dresden, Germany

Summary

The Schaufler Lab@TU Dresden offers a two‑year Doctoral Fellowship, extendable by 1.5 years, for early‑career researchers in North American Literature and Cultural Studies. The fellowship provides a stipend of EUR 1,850 per month, a material grant, and a family supplement, and includes office space, access to research infrastructure, conference travel funding, and mandatory English‑language training. Supervision is by Jun.-Prof. Dr. Moritz Ingwersen. Applicants must hold an excellent university degree in North American Studies or a related field, possess relevant experience in energy humanities or related areas, and demonstrate C1‑level English. The deadline for applications is 24 November 2026, submitted via SecureMail to the listed address.

Key Facts

Employer	TU Dresden
Department	Schaufler Lab@TU Dresden
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	North American Literature and Cultural Studies
Research Area	Energy Cultures in Transition
Degree Required	University degree in North American Studies or related discipline
Experience	Relevant prior experience in Environmental/Energy Humanities, Speculative Fiction Studies, or Science & Technology Studies
Salary	EUR 1,850 per month, plus EUR 150 material grant and EUR 315 per child family supplement
Funding	Doctoral Fellowship (stipend)
Contract Duration	2 years, with option to extend by 1.5 years
Language	English (C1 minimum); German optional
Deadline	2026-11-24
Employer Address	Helmholtzstraße 10, 01069, Saxony
Employer Contact	[email protected]

About the Project

The project investigates "Energy Cultures in Transition" by examining how modern energy regimes shape and are shaped by cultural, historical, political, ecological, and socio‑technological practices. Within North American literature and media, the research focuses on representations, contestations, and futures of energy relations, including speculative fiction, film, and other cultural forms, and explores links to colonialism, gender, nationalism, and social justice.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research leading to a doctorate
• Write a dissertation on Energy Cultures in Transition
• Engage in interdisciplinary dialogue with STEM partners
• Collaborate with artists in the Schaufler Residency
• Participate in science communication and outreach activities
• Attend mandatory English‑language training program

Required Skills

• Strong teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration skills
• Excellent English (C1 minimum)
• Relevant experience in Environmental/Energy Humanities, Speculative Fiction, or STS
• German language knowledge (desirable)

Who Should Apply

Early‑career researchers with a university degree in North American Studies or a related discipline, who have experience in Environmental/Energy Humanities, Speculative Fiction, or Science & Technology Studies, and who possess strong teamwork skills and C1‑level English proficiency.

Benefits

• Fully equipped office workspace
• Access to research studios, writing retreats, and excellent infrastructure
• Conference travel costs covered within project funds
• Mandatory English‑language training program
• Family‑friendly environment and inclusion policies

About the Employer

The Schaufler Lab@TU Dresden, initiated by the Schaufler Foundation and TU Dresden, brings together social scientists, humanities scholars, and artists to explore the relationships between technology, science, and society. The Lab operates under the guiding theme "Energy Cultures in Transition" for its third funding phase (2027‑2030) and emphasizes interdisciplinary research, public communication, and artistic collaboration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the fellowship?

The fellowship lasts for 2 years with a possible extension of 1.5 years.

What is the monthly stipend?

EUR 1,850 per month, plus a EUR 150 material grant and a EUR 315 child supplement.

What documents must be submitted?

Letter of motivation, curriculum vitae, recent degree certificate, research exposé, and the online application form.

Is German language required?

German knowledge is desirable but not required; English at C1 level is mandatory.