DFG Graduate Program in Collective Decision-Making at Universität Hamburg | Fully Funded, 12 Positions

The DFG Graduate Program in Collective Decision-Making at Universität Hamburg invites applications for 12 doctoral researcher positions in Economics, Philosophy, and Political Science. This structured, English-language graduate program offers a unique opportunity for doctoral researchers to engage in interdisciplinary research exploring the descriptive and normative dimensions of collective decision-making, combining theory, experimental methods, and empirical analysis.

This program is fully funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and aims to develop researchers capable of generating innovative insights into collective decision-making processes and designing solutions for complex governance challenges in modern society.

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Background of the DFG Graduate Program

The DFG Graduate Program “Collective Decision-Making” at Universität Hamburg conceptualizes collective decision-making as a complex, interactive process shaped by individual preferences, normative beliefs, and institutional frameworks. The program integrates theoretical, empirical, and normative research methods to equip doctoral researchers with the skills to analyze, design, and improve decision-making procedures across social, political, and economic contexts.

Universität Hamburg fosters an interdisciplinary research environment allowing doctoral researchers to work across Economics, Philosophy, and Political Science. The program emphasizes cross-disciplinary competence, preparing researchers to communicate effectively across fields and contribute innovative ideas to their dissertations and the broader academic community.

Graduates of this program will emerge with the ability to:

• Engage in advanced theoretical, empirical, and normative reasoning about collective decision-making

• Develop evidence-based insights into decision-making procedures

• Contribute to solving complex governance problems in modern society

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Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications

   • A Master’s degree in Economics, Philosophy, Political Science, or an interdisciplinary program closely related to the graduate program

   • Completion of at least 300 ECTS points (Bachelor’s + Master’s combined) from a recognized university

   • Strong command of English (written and spoken)

2. Research Fit

   • Demonstrated interest in collective decision-making research

   • Ability to engage in interdisciplinary analysis across Economics, Philosophy, and Political Science

3. Other Requirements

   • Availability to work in Hamburg, with required presence for program activities

   • Commitment to the structured doctoral qualification program

Universität Hamburg is committed to equity and diversity, welcoming applications regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion, belief, disability, or chronic illness. Severely disabled applicants will receive preference if equally qualified.

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Program Details

Position Type: Part-time doctoral researcher (75% of standard work hours per week)
Salary: EGR. 13 TV-L (according to German public sector wage agreements)
Contract Duration: Fixed-term, 3 years starting 01 November 2026
Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Location: Universität Hamburg, Von-Melle-Park 9, 20146 Hamburg, Germany

Scope of Work

Doctoral researchers will:

• Participate actively in the structured graduate program

• Conduct doctoral research in Economics, Philosophy, or Political Science related to collective decision-making

• Develop and defend a doctoral dissertation under supervision within the program’s interdisciplinary framework

The program combines:

• Theoretical research – advanced study of collective decision-making models and frameworks

• Empirical methods – experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis

• Normative analysis – evaluation of ethical and procedural standards in decision-making

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Research Focus

The DFG Graduate Program focuses on:

• Decision-making procedures and institutions

• Individual preferences and epistemic beliefs

• Experimental and empirical research methods

• Cross-disciplinary integration of Economics, Philosophy, and Political Science

The program provides tools and mentorship to help doctoral researchers design innovative studies, publish research outputs, and contribute to policy-relevant insights on collective decision-making.

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Benefits

Doctoral researchers at Universität Hamburg will enjoy:

1. Reliable remuneration based on German public sector wage agreements (EGR. 13 TV-L)

2. Continuing education opportunities and interdisciplinary training

3. Access to university pensions and social benefits

4. Flexible working hours and work-life balance initiatives

5. Health management programs, including EGYM Wellpass

6. Generous vacation: 30 days per annum

7. Dynamic and supportive research environment at a top German university

Universität Hamburg is recognized as a University of Excellence, committed to innovating and cooperating for a sustainable future in the digital age, with strong global research networks.

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How to Apply

Applicants must submit their application as a single PDF via the online application portal. Required documents include:

• Tabular CV

• Personal statement describing academic interests and fit with the program

• Research project outline (~1000 words)

• Copies of Bachelor’s and Master’s degree certificates and transcripts

• Two academic reference letters (can be sent separately to bewerbungen@uni-hamburg.de with reference number 19)

• Substantial academic writing sample (~5000 words, e.g., Master’s thesis excerpt or term paper)

Application Reference Number: 19

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to online interviews in April or May 2026, with successful applicants informed shortly after.

For technical issues during application submission, contact bewerbungen@uni-hamburg.de.

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Important Dates

• Start Date: 01 November 2026

• Application Deadline: 31 March 2026

• Interviews: April – May 2026

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Contact Information

• Email: cdm.wiso@uni-hamburg.de

• Location: Von-Melle-Park 9, 20146 Hamburg, Germany

• Website/Application Portal

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The DFG Graduate Program in Collective Decision-Making at Universität Hamburg offers an exceptional opportunity for highly motivated doctoral researchers in Economics, Philosophy, and Political Science. By joining this structured program, researchers will gain interdisciplinary expertise, methodological rigor, and the ability to contribute innovative solutions to complex governance and decision-making challenges.

This is a fully funded, English-language doctoral program in Germany, providing a world-class research environment, excellent benefits, and career development opportunities for emerging scholars committed to advancing knowledge in collective decision-making.

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Click here to apply

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