Research Assistant (WHK) (m/f/d) within EU-funded research projects

We are hiring a Student Research Assistant with a completed Bachelor's degree to join several EU-funded research projects based in Leipzig from the 15th of May onwards. These projects are framed under the overarching themes of socio-ecological transformation and democracy, combining empirical social research with interdisciplinary and international collaboration. The core focus is on the current threats to democratic governance, particularly the role of conspiracy ideologies, polarisation, radicalisation processes and their implications for social cohesion, climate change adaptation and evidence-based policymaking. This role offers the opportunity to be closely involved in empirical research, conference activities, and administrative project work within large European research consortia.

The position is initially limited until the end of the current year, with the explicit option of extension subject to project needs and performance.

• Support in the planning, implementation and evaluation of mixed-methods empirical research projects on socio-ecological transformation, democracy and democratic resilience, including:
• Literature searches, compilation and maintenance of bibliographies, and support for literature reviews
• Quantitative research support, including data preparation, data cleaning and statistical analyses
• Support in qualitative research, including preparation, transcription and coding of interviews and documents in English
• Support in the preparation of scientific publications, project reports and presentations
• Support in science communication (e.g. blog articles)
• Support in conference and workshop organisation, including preparation, coordination and documentation
• Assistance with administrative and organisational tasks related to EU-funded research projects

Thematic focus

The projects address topics such as climate adaptation, biodiversity conservation, trust in democracy, social cohesion, conspiracy ideologies, and dynamics of radicalisation and polarisation. A particular emphasis is placed on analysing conspiracy beliefs and related attitudes as a significant risk factor for democratic institutions, public trust and societal resilience.

What we offer

• Insight into project based work in international EU research consortia and interdisciplinary collaboration
• Active involvement in empirical research, publication processes and conference activities
• Experience with project management at the interface of science, policy and practice
• A collegial working environment with the prospect of longer-term collaboration through contract extension

Application

Please submit your application in English, including a short cover letter and CV  by the 9th of March 2026.

• Completed Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline, such as Sociology, Political Science, Psychology, Human Geography, Environmental Sciences, Biology or related fields
• Knowledge of empirical social research methods, with a clear emphasis on quantitative approaches; experience with qualitative methods is an advantage
• Good to very good statistical skills and at least basic programming skills (preferably python or R)
• Strong interest in socio-political research, particularly in political psychology, conspiracy ideologies, democracy and socio-ecological transformation processes
• Very good English skills in speaking and writing; English is the main working language of the projects and all interviews will be conducted in English
• High level of reliability, careful and independent working style, strong analytical skills and ability to work well in a team