The University of Göttingen has a position opening for a Post-Doctoral Researcher in Food Systems Economics (all genders welcome) to join the Research Training Group (RTG) 2654 “Sustainable Food Systems” funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG).
The position should be filled as soon as possible. This is a full-time position (100%, currently 39.8 work hours per week) for three years, with the possibility to extend for up to three more years according to the WissZeitVG (the German public law for employees in the academic sector). The salary is in accordance with the German public service salary scale E13 TVL. This is a qualification position for junior researchers pursuing an academic career after the PhD degree. The position is focused on research and has no regular teaching obligations.
The position involves interdisciplinary research on questions related to “Sustainable Food Systems”. Food and agriculture are playing key roles for many of the global challenges such as poverty, undernutrition, obesity, climate change, and biodiversity loss. It is obvious that the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) cannot be achieved without major changes in food production, distribution, and consumption. But what types of changes are useful and how these changes can be implemented politically, economically, and socially are open questions that will be addressed in the RTG, focusing on both rich and poor countries.
The Program is implemented in cooperation with the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) in Washington DC and KU Leuven in Belgium. Specific questions can be addressed to Prof. Meike Wollni (mwollni1@uni-goettingen.de). The position is based in Göttingen (Germany), but will require international travel for data collection and exchange with collaborators. As part of our work-life-balance strategy, financial support for childcare costs during travel is possible.
The main tasks of the postdoctoral researcher include:
- To conduct own research in the context of the RTG and in particular the synthesis and integration of research results from the different research activities within the RTG,
- To support the flow of information between the empirical working groups and the RTG members that are specialized in statistical modelling, and to provide an intellectual platform for joint discussions on synthesis activities,
- To counsel subprojects regarding design and analysis of their studies to facilitate their optimal integration into the overall study concept of the RTG, collaboration between subprojects and data synthesis,
- To initiate and lead joint publications.
We are looking for a candidate, who
- Holds an outstanding Master’s degree (or equivalent) and a PhD degree (completed or close to completion) in food and agricultural economics, development economics, general economics, sustainability studies, or related social sciences disciplines,
- Has experience with relevant research methods,
- Has proven interest in topics related to sustainable food systems,
- Has strong data analysis/programming skills,
- Has excellent command of the English language,
- Is an active team player with experience in scientific cooperation and publication,
- Is interested to collaborate and share ideas and data within the RTG 2654.
We offer:
- An international, interdisciplinary, flexible and motivating work environment,
- A great team to work with,
- The possibility to pursue your own career development,
- Mentoring by advanced researchers,
- Advanced career support.
The main tasks of the postdoctoral researcher include:
- To conduct own research in the context of the RTG and in particular the synthesis and integration of research results from the different research activities within the RTG,
- To support the flow of information between the empirical working groups and the RTG members that are specialized in statistical modelling, and to provide an intellectual platform for joint discussions on synthesis activities,
- To counsel subprojects regarding design and analysis of their studies to facilitate their optimal integration into the overall study concept of the RTG, collaboration between subprojects and data synthesis,
- To initiate and lead joint publications.
Recruitment procedure
The University of Göttingen is an equal opportunities employer and places particular emphasis on fostering career opportunities for women. Qualified women are therefore strongly encouraged to apply in fields in which they are underrepresented. The University has committed itself to being a family-friendly institution and supports their employees in balancing work and family life.
The mission of the University is to employ a greater number of severely disabled persons. Applications from severely disabled persons with equivalent qualifications will be given preference.
Please submit your application until 10 November 2022.
Further details regarding the application material and the information how submit the application including more information about the RTG and comprehensive FAQ pages can be found on our website: www.uni-goettingen.de/sustainablefood.
Further questions can be directed to Dr. Melanie Grosse (phone: +49(0)551-39-20202, email: mgrosse@uni-goettingen.de).
Please note: With submission of your application, you accept the processing of your applicant data in terms of the data-protection law.