PhD Position in Everyday Jewish Polemics in Medieval and Early Modern History, University of Münster, Germany

Summary

The University of Münster is seeking a Research Assistant / Doctoral Candidate (65% TV-L E13) for a 3.5-year position starting February 1, 2027, within the interdisciplinary joint project 'Institute for Multidisciplinary Religious Research' (ImRe). Funded by the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR), the subproject focuses on 'Religious Everyday Polemics and Their Social Functions', specifically exploring Jewish responses to anti-Jewish polemics and Jewish anti-Christian polemics during the 15th and 16th centuries. The candidate will work on their PhD within an internationally networked research framework focusing on medieval and early modern Jewish history. Applications are accepted until November 15, 2026.

Key Facts

Employer	University of Münster
Department	Institut für multidisziplinäre Religionsforschung (ImRe)
Position Type	Research Assistant / PhD Student
Discipline	History / Religious Studies
Research Area	Jewish History of the Middle Ages and Early Modern Period
Salary	Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L (65%)
Funding	Funded by the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR)
Contract Duration	3.5 years
Employer Address	Schlossplatz 2, 48149, North Rhine-Westphalia

About the Project

The subproject investigates Jewish responses to anti-Jewish polemics as well as Jewish anti-Christian polemics during an era of persecution, expulsion, and migration (15th–16th centuries). It incorporates three methodical perspectives: analysis of theological polemical literature, examination of popular literature (such as Yiddish/Hebrew Alexander romances or minhagim books) aimed at the general population, and theoretical approaches in mentality research focusing on the perception of others.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct academic research towards a PhD within an interdisciplinary and internationally networked joint project.
• Focus on medieval and early modern Jewish history under the subproject examining the role of perception of the Christian environment in 15th and 16th-century Jewish everyday life.

Who Should Apply

Candidates interested in pursuing a doctorate in medieval and early modern Jewish history, specifically focusing on religious everyday polemics and perception of the Christian environment in 15th and 16th-century Jewish daily life.

About the Employer

The University of Münster is one of Germany's strongest research universities and a major regional employer, with over 7,000 employees dedicated to international top-level research and teaching.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline for this position?

The application deadline is November 15, 2026.

When does the position start?

The position begins on February 1, 2027.

What is the duration of the contract?

The position is fixed-term for 3.5 years.

What is the salary grade for this position?

The salary is based on the German public service pay scale Entgeltgruppe 13 TV-L (65%).

Which organization is funding this project?

The project is funded by the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR).