Applications are open for the Postdoctoral Researcher in Migration Studies (m/f/d) at Danube University Krems (University for Continuing Education Krems). This fellowship is part of the ERC-funded project Ethics in Action and focuses on a comparative study of sanctuary and solidarity cities in the United States and Latin America.
The selected fellow will lead Work Package 3 and contribute to high-quality research, fieldwork, publications, and stakeholder engagement. In addition, the appointment is part-time at 30 hours per week for an initial period of 3 years, starting on 1 November 2026 or shortly thereafter.
Application Deadline:
- 24 August 2026 (23:59 CET / Europe-Vienna)
Tell Me About The Program:
The University for Continuing Education Krems (Austria) is recruiting a Postdoctoral Researcher to join the ERC project “Ethics in Action: Navigating Ethical Dilemmas of Migrant Solidarity”, led by Professor Julia Mourão Permoser. The project investigates how policymakers and civil society actors navigate ethical dilemmas in supporting irregular and precarious migrants.
This postdoc will lead Work Package 3, focusing on local policymakers in sanctuary/solidarity cities in the United States and Latin America, conducting comparative qualitative research and contributing to theory‑building at the intersection of political theory and empirical migration studies.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Applicants with expertise in:
- Migration Studies
- Urban Governance
- Political Science
- Sociology & Public Policy
- Comparative Research
Type:
- Postdoctoral Fellowship | ERC Project | Austria
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Hold a PhD (by 15 October 2026) in political science, sociology, public policy, urban studies, migration studies, or related fields.
- Have an excellent publication record in migration studies.
- Demonstrate expertise in urban governance and multi‑level migration governance.
- Possess strong qualitative research skills and comparative research design experience.
- Have excellent knowledge of United States and Latin America.
- Be fluent in English (C1) and Spanish/Portuguese (C1).
- Provide two writing samples (preferably single‑authored).
- Be willing to relocate to Krems/Vienna or surrounding areas.
Desirable:
- Prior research on sanctuary cities or solidarity policies.
- Experience with sensitive data and ethical research standards.
- Ability to link empirical research with political theory.
- Collaborative project experience.
How are Applicants Selected?
Selection is based on:
- Academic excellence and publication record.
- Quality of proposed research outline (2–3 pages).
- Fit with ERC project goals.
- Language skills and regional expertise.
- Ability to work collaboratively and mentor junior researchers.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All countries worldwide.
Where will the Program be Taken?
- University for Continuing Education Krems, Austria.
How Many Awards?
- One postdoctoral position.
What is the Benefit of the Program?
- Part‑time (30 hrs/week) for 3 years.
- Salary: €5,014.30 gross/month (14x annually, full‑time equivalent).
- Support for fieldwork, publications, and international networking.
- Collaboration with leading scholars in migration politics and political theory.
- Flexible working hours, option to work from home (up to 2 days).
- Internal training, coaching, and family‑friendly support services.
How Long Will the Program Last?
- 3 years (starting 1 November 2026 or shortly thereafter).
Required Documents:
- Cover letter (max 2 pages).
- Curriculum Vitae.
- Research outline (2–3 pages).
- Copies of degrees and transcripts.
- Two writing samples.
- Contact details of 3 referees.
How to Apply:
- Prepare all required documents.
- Submit online application via: University of Krems Vacancies Portal.
- Deadline: 24 August 2026 (23:59 CET).
👉 Visit the Application Webpage for details
