The German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) is inviting applications for its Doctoral Researcher (f/m/diverse) position, Position No. 2026-B-02. This opportunity is linked to the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Center CRC 1780 “Food System Diversification for Sustainable Nutrition” (FoodDiverse).
The role combines professional research work with preparation of a PhD dissertation in the IDOS dual PhD Programme. In addition, the selected researcher will carry out empirical research in Ghana and Germany on behavioural strategies to diversify food consumption and plant-based protein intake.
Application Deadline:
- 14 June 2026 (23:59 CET)
Tell Me About the Position:
The German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) is recruiting a Doctoral Researcher (f/m/diverse) for the DFG-funded Collaborative Research Center CRC 1780 “Food System Diversification for Sustainable Nutrition” (FoodDiverse).
The position is part of the subproject “Behavioural Strategies to Diversify Food Consumption”, focusing on empirical research in Ghana and Germany around plant-based protein intake, discourse, and policy analysis.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Applicants should have a background in:
- Human Geography
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- Agricultural/Nutrition Sciences
Type:
- Doctoral Researcher | Germany & Ghana | 3-Year PhD Fellowship
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Hold a Master’s degree in relevant social sciences or agricultural/nutrition sciences.
- Have proven knowledge of qualitative and ethnographic research methods.
- Show strong motivation to pursue a PhD.
- Be willing to travel abroad, including tropical regions.
- Be fluent in English (German is an asset).
- Provide proof of recognition of foreign degrees via Anabin/ZAB database if applicable.
How are Candidates Selected?
- Based on research proposal fit with the subproject.
- Demonstrated methodological expertise.
- Experience in Africa is considered an asset.
- Strong writing, communication, and organizational skills.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Open internationally (foreign degrees must be recognized in Germany).
Where will the Position be Taken?
- IDOS, Bonn, Germany with fieldwork in Ghana and Germany.
How Many Awards?
- One doctoral researcher position (Position No. 2026-B-02).
What is the Benefit of the Position?
- Part-time (65%, 25.4 hours/week).
- Salary: €40,000–58,000 gross annually (EG 13 TVöD Bund, 65%).
- Duration: 3 years, extendable up to 9 months.
- Benefits:
- Flexible working hours & mobile work (up to 60%).
- Subsidized Deutschland-Job-Ticket.
- 30 days annual vacation + 6 company vacation days.
- Pension contributions (VBLU).
- Professional development training.
- Equality and diversity support.
How Long Will the Position Last?
- 3 years (extendable by 9 months).
Required Documents:
- Cover letter.
- Curriculum Vitae.
- Relevant certificates.
- Proof of recognition of foreign degree (Anabin/ZAB excerpt).
How to Apply
Applicants should submit the required application materials through the official application portal. Before applying, review the position requirements and documentation instructions carefully.
- Cover letter
- Curriculum vitae
- Relevant certificates
- Database excerpt from Anabin as proof of recognition of foreign degree by ZAB (if applicable)
👉 Visit the official fellowship page for details
