About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The Max Planck Institute for the History of Science (MPIWG) is a research institute of the Max Planck Society (MPG) with currently two research departments, several research groups, and a graduate school. At the MPIWG, around 150 scholars from all over the world investigate the sciences past and present, working together on a collective, collaborative, and transdisciplinary basis. The MPIWG is renowned worldwide as a hub for reflection on the role of the sciences in politics and society. It is located in southwestern Berlin, close to the campus of the Free University Berlin and other research institutions.
The MPIWG’s Department “Knowledge Systems and Collective Life,” led by Prof. Dr. Etienne Benson, seeks to appoint a Student Assistant (m/f/d) starting as soon as possible for up to 19 hours per week.
Researchers in the Department “Knowledge Systems and Collective Life” use historical and ethnographic methods to study the relationship between knowledge systems and forms of collective life in the past and present. We seek to foreground neglected histories, trace cross-cultural connections, engage with diverse publics, expand the boundaries of the political, challenge conventional definitions of science and technology, critically reflect on our own political and ethical commitments, and experiment with new methods and media. Further information about the department can be found here. The working language of the department is English.
Your responsibilities
Assist director with research
Research and compilation of scholarly literature
Assistance with organization and annotation of research materials
Organizational support for scholarly events
Assistance in maintaining the department’s website
Aim and Benefits of Student Assistant (m/f/d) Training
Remuneration at the student employee rates of the MPG support for junior scientists and scholars: currently €17.17 for Master’s students who can demonstrate completion of their Bachelor’s degree
Working hours to align with your studies
Work in an international setting with staff and guests from more than forty countries
Close contact with all research and research-support units and the opportunity for direct, personal dialogue
Promotion of your professional interests and research interests
Use of the on-site reference library
Access to the wide range of training courses offered by the MPG’s Planck Academy
Occupational health management: weekly in-house yoga classes; regular information on courses offered by our partner health insurance companies
A student representative for equal opportunities.
Requirements for Student Assistant (m/f/d) Training Qualification
Currently enrolled in a Master’s program (first or second semester) at a university in Germany in History, History of Science, or a closely related field
Excellent language skills in English; German language skills desirable
An interest in one or more of the following research fields: 19th and 20th century environmental history, history of science, science and technology studies with a focus on the relation between environment and politics
Proficiency in MS Office applications
The ability to work both independently and in a team, good communication skills, a talent for organization
An interest in and enthusiasm for work in an international research institution
How to apply