The Graduiertenkolleg (Research Training Group) 2638 addresses questions regarding the connection between norms and their critique, as well as the link between norms and social change. The aim is to examine specific structures of normative practices shared by the arts, law, religion, language, and morality. The research agenda of the Graduiertenkolleg follows the hypothesis that the application of a rule in the full sense always involves critically reflecting on it. Therefore, the application of norms is bound up with their transformation. The Graduiertenkolleg investigates this transformative aspect of normativity in the mentioned contexts and analyzes the respective commonalities and differences. The Graduiertenkolleg's question opens up an interdisciplinary comparison of normative practices from a critical and transcultural perspective.

The Graduiertenkolleg is designed to cover a wide disciplinary range, crucial for addressing its foundational theoretical theme. It brings together the expertise of 14 professors from the fields of art history, dance studies, film studies, law, linguistics, literature, musicology, philosophy, religious studies, and theater studies. Early-stage researchers in these fields are invited to apply. The Graduiertenkolleg forms a bilingual context (German/English). We invite international applicants, explicitly including those from the so-called Global South, to apply, while considering the mentioned language requirements.

A detailed description of the school can be found on the Graduiertenkolleg’s website: www.fu-berlin.de/normativity-critiquechange.de

The professors supporting the school are located at the Freie Universitat Berlin, the Humboldt University of Berlin, and the Berlin University of the Arts. Doctoral candidates will be employed at one of the participating universities based on their primary supervision. The intended start date of employment is October 1, 2024.

Job description

• Independent execution of a self-conceived research project within the framework of the Graduiertenkolleg, with the goal of completing a dissertation within the contract period of three years;

• Participation in shaping the program of the school through interdisciplinary, international conferences, lecture series, and workshops;

• Regular and active participation in the school's events, including presenting and discussing own research results.

Requirements:

• Completed academic studies (Magister's/Master's) in one of the mentioned or closely related disciplines.

Desirable:

• Excellent academic performance in one of the disciplines of the Graduiertenkolleg or a closely related discipline;

• Very good knowledge of the issues in the thematic area of Graduiertenkolleg 2638;

• Demonstrated affinity for (foundational) theoretical work through academic achievements;

• Interdisciplinary dissertation project with a relevant research question.

• Team-oriented work approach;

• Very good German and English language skills. Applicants without a German university degree must demonstrate B1+ GER. By the start of the position in October 2024, B2/C1 proficiency should be attained.

For further information, please contact Dr. Tobias Wieland (tobias.wieland@fu-berlin.de / +49 30 838-58918).