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 Cultural Studies. The fellowship provides a monthly stipend of EUR 1,850, a material grant of EUR 150 and a family supplement of EUR 315 per child. Fellows will conduct independent research on the guiding theme “Energy Cultures in Transition”, write a dissertation, collaborate with STEM partners and artists, and engage in science communication and outreach. The position includes a fully equipped office, access to research studios, writing retreats, conference travel funds, and mandatory participation in an English‑language training programme. Applications are due by 24 November 2026.

Key Facts

Employer	TU Dresden
Department	Schaufler Lab@TU Dresden
Position Type	Doctoral Fellowship
Discipline	Cultural Studies
Research Area	Energy Cultures in Transition
Degree Required	University degree in Cultural Studies or comparable field (e.g., Geography, Anthropology, History)
Salary	EUR 1,850 per month plus material grant and family supplement
Funding	Fellowship
Contract Duration	2 years, with option of extension by 1.5 years
Language	English (C1)
Deadline	2026-11-24
Employer Address	Saxony
Employer Contact	[email protected]

About the Project

The project investigates "Energy Cultures in Transition", examining energy as a cultural phenomenon across aesthetic, historical, political, ecological, economic and socio‑technological dimensions. It draws on Energy Humanities, STS, and Digital Humanities to explore how modern energy regimes shape infrastructures, subjectivities, power relations, narratives, geopolitics, ecologies and knowledge systems, and how these in turn influence energy futures.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct independent research and academic qualification toward a doctorate
• Write a dissertation on a topic within "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
• Use shared office spaces and research infrastructure
• Attend mandatory English‑language training program

Required Skills

• Strong teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration skills
• Excellent English language skills (minimum C1)
• Willingness to engage with artists and STEM researchers
• Ability to conduct independent research in Cultural Studies

Who Should Apply

Early‑career researchers holding an excellent university degree in Cultural Studies or a comparable discipline (e.g., Geography, Anthropology, History), with strong teamwork skills, willingness to work across disciplines, and at least C1‑level English proficiency. German language knowledge is desirable but not required.

Benefits

• Monthly stipend of EUR 1,850
• Material grant of EUR 150 and family supplement of EUR 315 per child
• Fully equipped office workspace
• Access to research studios and writing retreats
• Conference travel funding (subject to project funds)
• Mandatory English‑language training program
• Inclusive and equal‑opportunity environment
• Family‑friendly policies and priority for candidates with disabilities

About the Employer

TU Dresden promotes a cosmopolitan, innovative university culture with a strong emphasis on diversity and mutual appreciation. The Schaufler Lab@TU Dresden, founded by the Schaufler Foundation, brings together social sciences, humanities and artists to explore technology, science and society. The Lab’s third funding phase (April 2027–September 2030) focuses on "Energy Cultures in Transition" and offers eight doctoral fellowships and an Artist in Residence program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the fellowship?

Two years, with a possible extension of 1.5 years.

What is the monthly stipend?

EUR 1,850 per month, plus a material grant and family supplement.

Which documents must be submitted?

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

Is German language required?

German knowledge is desirable but not mandatory.

When is the application deadline?

24 November 2026.