PhD – Dimensions and International Effects of Populism – Germany

The University of Freiburg invites applications for a doctoral scholarship in the new pan-European doctoral network “Dimensions and International Effects of Populism” (IDEoPOP). Funded by the Horizon Europe program – Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions – Doctoral Networks (MSCA-DN) of the European Union, IDEoPOP explores how populism relates to national and international politics and how it affects international policy. Under the guidance of some of the leading scholars in this field, doctoral candidates will be trained in the study of the international dimensions and effects of populism.

Job Duties
IDEoPOP offers training through research within a doctoral program with a unique structure that imparts complementary academic and professional competencies. A multifaceted academic training is provided jointly with seven academic partners: the University of Freiburg (Germany), Sciences Po Paris (France), the University of Gothenburg (Sweden), Bilkent University (Turkey), the University of Genoa (Italy), Jagiellonian University (Poland), and the University of Bath (UK). In addition, doctoral candidates will learn to develop and communicate academic and policy solutions relevant to the challenges posed by populism in international politics through secondments at renowned research centers (the Institute of International Relations in Prague, the International Youth Research Centre in Gothenburg, the Institute of International Economic Relations in Athens, the BRICS Policy Center in Rio de Janeiro, the Genshagen Foundation near Berlin, and the Jacques Delors Institute in Paris).

The comprehensive training in IDEoPOP will prepare doctoral candidates for careers in academia, think tanks, government agencies, international organizations, or NGOs dealing with issues of democracy and international cooperation.

Project Description: Populist Politicization of Foreign Policy (DC9)

This thesis project will focus on how populists politicize foreign policy by introducing international issues into national political debates and using them to mobilize domestic political support. The close link between foreign policy and domestic politics is one of the most important features of populist foreign policy. The thesis will explore the mechanisms of foreign policy politicization through a comparative case analysis of countries like Italy and Poland.

Requirements
We are looking for a highly motivated early-stage researcher who holds a Master’s degree in Political Science or a related discipline and possesses excellent theoretical and empirical skills. Proficiency in English is required. Applications should specifically address the topic outlined above. Please indicate if you have already applied for other positions within the IDEoPOP network.

Documents to be submitted by applicants

• Cover letter briefly describing motivation and research interests. The letter should also state whether you have already applied for other doctoral positions announced in IDEoPOP.
• Project proposal describing how the candidate would address the doctoral topic (research question, theoretical approach, proposed methods, empirical analysis approach). The proposal should be 3 pages (font size 12), excluding references.
• CV (summarizing education, previous positions, academic work, and, if relevant, publication list).
• Copy of Master’s degree(s) and full academic transcripts with grades.

Benefits
The gross monthly salary includes a 3342.20 € living allowance, a 600 € mobility allowance, and a 660 € family allowance (if applicable).

Organization/Company – University of Freiburg
Research Field – Political Science
Researcher Profile – Early Stage Researcher (R1)
Country – Germany
Application Deadline – February 25, 2025, 23:59 (Europe/Berlin)

More information Euraxess.