University of Cologne has announced an excellent opportunity for aspiring researchers: a fully funded PhD Candidate and Research Assistant position at the Chair of Entrepreneurship and Management within the Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences. This position is ideal for graduates in business, economics, psychology, or related disciplines who want to pursue a doctorate while gaining hands-on experience in empirical research and university teaching.

The University of Cologne PhD Candidate and Research Assistant position in Entrepreneurship and Management is an outstanding opportunity for motivated graduates seeking rigorous doctoral training in Germany. With a competitive salary, strong supervision, teaching responsibilities, and research opportunities in high-impact areas such as entrepreneurial well-being and sustainability, this role offers a solid foundation for an academic or research-intensive career. If your interests lie at the intersection of entrepreneurship, strategy, and international management, this position deserves a place at the top of your application list.

Application Deadline: 14 June 2026
Start Date: 1 August 2026
Location: Cologne
Employment Type: Full-time (39.83 hours/week)
Contract Duration: 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2028
Salary: TV-L E13 (German public sector pay scale)

---

Why Consider the University of Cologne?

Founded in 1388, the University of Cologne is one of the oldest and largest universities in Europe. It is internationally recognized for excellence in economics, management, and social sciences and offers a vibrant research environment in one of Germany’s most dynamic cities. This position offers three highly valuable components: A fully funded pathway to a PhD in Germany. Intensive research training with publication opportunities. Formal teaching experience in entrepreneurship and management. For candidates targeting academic careers or research-oriented roles in consulting, policy, and industry, this is a particularly strong opportunity.

The Chair of Entrepreneurship and Management, led by Christian Schwens, conducts empirical research in:

• Entrepreneurship
• Strategic management
• International management

Research themes include:

• Entrepreneurship and well-being
• Hybrid entrepreneurship
• Environmental innovations
• Strategic alliances
• International partnerships

---

Research and Teaching Responsibilities

Successful applicants will contribute to both scholarly research and teaching.

Research Duties

• Participate in empirical research projects in entrepreneurship and management
• Co-author and independently advance publication projects
• Analyze quantitative data using software such as Stata or SPSS
• Develop research ideas suitable for top academic journals

Teaching Duties

• Teach seminars and lectures independently
• Help design entrepreneurship courses
• Supervise bachelor’s and master’s theses

Doctoral Qualification

The position explicitly provides the opportunity—and expectation—to complete a PhD.

---

Candidate Profile

Applicants should hold an excellent degree in one of the following areas:

• Economics
• Business Administration
• Business Informatics
• Organizational Psychology
• Business Psychology
• Related disciplines

Preferred Qualifications

• Strong interest in entrepreneurship and management research
• Knowledge of quantitative methods and statistical software
• Experience with empirical research
• Excellent written and spoken English
• High motivation and resilience
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively

---

Salary and Funding

The position is remunerated according to TV-L E13, the standard salary scale for doctoral researchers at German public universities.

Depending on tax class and personal circumstances, the net monthly salary is typically competitive and includes:

• Public health insurance contributions
• Pension benefits
• Paid vacation
• Social security coverage

---

Benefits of the Position

The University of Cologne offers a supportive and flexible work environment, including:

• Structured doctoral supervision
• High-quality academic training
• Flexible working hours
• Remote work options
• Family-friendly policies
• Occupational health management
• Equal opportunity and diversity support

---

Research Topics of Particular Interest

Candidates with interests in the following areas are especially well aligned with the chair’s expertise:

• Entrepreneurial well-being
• Startup management
• Environmental and sustainable innovation
• Strategic alliances
• International entrepreneurship
• Organizational behavior

How to Apply

Required Documents

• Curriculum Vitae
• Degree certificates and transcripts
• Proof of qualifications
• Motivation letter or research statement (if requested)
• Additional supporting documents
• Applications must be submitted online through APPLY NOW
• The deadline is 14 June 2026.

Important: Applications should be submitted without a photo, in accordance with German hiring practices.

---

Contact Information

For academic questions regarding the position, applicants may contact: Professor Dr. Christian Schwens
Email: schwens@wiso.uni-koeln.de

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is this a fully funded PhD position?

Yes. The position is a salaried employment contract under TV-L E13, which provides full funding.

Do I need to know German?

The advertisement emphasizes very good English skills. German proficiency is not explicitly required, though it may be helpful for living in Cologne.

Can international applicants apply?

Yes. The University of Cologne welcomes qualified applicants from all countries.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is 14 June 2026.

How long is the contract?

The initial contract runs from 1 August 2026 to 31 July 2028.

Is remote work possible?

Yes. The university explicitly states that remote work opportunities are available.

What statistical software skills are preferred?

Knowledge of Stata or SPSS is highly desirable.

Is teaching experience required?

Formal teaching experience is not mandatory, but willingness to teach and supervise students is essential.