Applications are now open for the Max Planck Institute for Political and Social Science in Göttingen Fellowship 2026. This postdoctoral position offers a chance for political scientists to join a new department focused on key global issues. The deadline is May 3, 2026, so researchers interested in political institutions and conflict should prepare their materials soon.
About the Fellowship and Department
The Max Planck Institute for Political and Social Science in Göttingen studies social and political changes, with emphasis on conflict, inequality, democracy’s challenges, and social shifts. The Department of Political Institutions and Conflict, led by Ursula Daxecker, explores how political institutions link to conflict. Its main themes include institutions and political violence, changes in democratic politics, and the political economy of fair elections. The department focuses on the Global South and uses both quantitative methods like surveys and observational studies, plus qualitative work such as fieldwork and interviews. Researchers aim to address real-world problems like rising extremism, election threats, and weakening democracies.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
Fellows will conduct high-quality research that fits the department’s goals. They will write academic articles with team members and perform fieldwork or interviews in study areas. Other duties include helping recruit PhD students and junior researchers, mentoring them, and co-supervising their work. Fellows must handle some admin tasks, like organizing workshops, managing data, preparing reports, and sharing findings with wider audiences. Full-time presence at the institute in Göttingen is required, so fellows need to live nearby.
Essential Eligibility Requirements
Candidates need a PhD or equivalent in political science, completed before the start date. They should have a strong publication record in top international journals or show clear potential for it. Interest in the department’s themes is key, along with a willingness to build expertise in new subjects or regions. Strong skills in quantitative methods are essential, including panel regression, large data analysis, surveys, and programming in tools like Stata or R. Excellent English communication skills, commitment to academic integrity, independent thinking, and teamwork ability are also required.
Desirable Qualifications
Experience with causal inference methods helps. Knowledge of Global South areas like South Asia or West Africa is a plus. Skills in languages such as Hindi or Bengali are valuable for the department’s focus. Background in collecting and analyzing event data, plus fieldwork and qualitative interviews, strengthens applications.
How to Apply
Submit one PDF file by May 3, 2026. Include a CV with publication list, a two-page cover letter on your fit with the department, a two-page research proposal tied to its themes, contact details for three referees, and one published article or writing sample. For co-authored work, note your contribution. Apply through the official link: apply here.
For full details, check the Max Planck Institute page. This fellowship provides a strong platform for advancing research on pressing political challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for the Max Planck Göttingen Fellowship 2026?
The application deadline is May 3, 2026.
What are the key eligibility requirements for the fellowship?
Candidates need a PhD in political science, a strong publication record, and skills in quantitative methods like surveys and data analysis.
What tasks will fellows handle in the Department of Political Institutions and Conflict?
Fellows will conduct research, write articles, mentor PhD students, and manage tasks like workshops and data sharing.
How do I apply for the fellowship?
Submit one PDF file with your CV, cover letter, research proposal, three referees’ contacts, and a writing sample through the official link.
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