PhD Position in Historical Studies of Wetlands, University of Augsburg, Germany

Summary

The University of Augsburg’s Philologically-Historical Faculty offers five PhD positions within the DFG‑funded research group “Thinking with Wetlands. Histories from the Quaking Zone, 1630‑1997”. The positions are 65% TVL‑13 contracts for four years, starting 1 April 2027, and focus on interdisciplinary historical studies of European wetlands. Applicants must hold a master’s degree (M.A., M.Sc. or equivalent) with very good grades, submit a range of documents including a motivation letter and a project proposal, and demonstrate proficiency in English and German (or willingness to acquire German). The group emphasizes diversity, equality, and support for candidates with disabilities.

Key Facts

Employer	University of Augsburg
Department	Philologisch-Historische Fakultät
Position Type	PhD
Discipline	History
Research Area	Historical studies of wetlands
Degree Required	Master's degree (M.A., M.Sc.) or equivalent
Salary	TVL-13 (65% position)
Funding	DFG-funded
Contract Duration	4 years
Language	German and English
Deadline	2026-12-11
Required Documents	Online application form, Motivation letter (max 400 words), Implementation proposal (max 1500 words), Curriculum vitae (max 2 pages), Copies of university degrees, Scientific thesis or comparable longer text
Employer Contact	Prof. Dr. Simone M. Müller ([email protected])
Employer Address	Bavaria

About the Project

The DFG‑funded “Thinking with Wetlands” project investigates the multifaceted histories of wetlands in Central and Western Europe from 1630 to 1997. By examining contested visions, practices, and narratives surrounding marshes, bogs, and floodplains, the research aims to give voice to previously invisible ecological actors and reveal the complex interplay between human societies and wetland environments across centuries.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research within an assigned subproject of the “Thinking with Wetlands” group
• Engage in interdisciplinary dialogue and collaborative formats
• Participate actively in joint research projects and group events

Required Skills

• Advanced historical research and analysis
• Ability to work in interdisciplinary teams
• Proficiency in English and German (or willingness to learn German)
• Excellent academic writing and presentation skills

Who Should Apply

Applicants with a master’s degree in history or related disciplines, strong historical research skills, and an interest in interdisciplinary wetland studies. Candidates must be proficient in English and German (or be able to acquire German within two years) and be willing to engage in collaborative, interdisciplinary research and group activities.

Benefits

• Structured PhD program with mentorship
• DFG‑funded 65% TVL‑13 salary
• Support for diversity and equal opportunity
• Family‑friendly policies at the University of Augsburg

About the Employer

The University of Augsburg’s Philologically‑Historical Faculty hosts the DFG‑funded interdisciplinary research group “Thinking with Wetlands”. The university promotes gender equality, supports applicants with disabilities, and offers a structured doctoral programme within a collaborative international network.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does the position start?

The research group and the positions begin on 1 April 2027.

What is the contract length?

The contract is for a fixed term of four years.

Which languages are required?

Applicants must know English and German, and those whose first language is not German must acquire German within the first two years.