Research Associate for the Project “CLICCS II M1 – Decarbonization dynamics of companies” § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG

Institution: Cluster of Excellence „Climate, Climatic Change, and Society (CLICCS)“ (climate research)

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.05.2026, fixed until 30.04.2030 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).

Application deadline: 2026-02-13

Scope of work: full-time position suitable for part-time

The Cluster of Excellence “Climate, Climatic Change, and Society” (CLICCS) investigates climate dynamics and climate-related social dynamics, as well as the interactions between the two. To this end, we are looking for colleagues from a wide range of disciplines, including the natural sciences as well as the social sciences. We are proud to work together in a truly integrating manner. Our partners, e.g. the Max Planck Institute for Meteorology, Helmholtz Centre Hereon or the German Climate Computing Centre are also hiring. All jobs:

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities.

The Research Associate will work in the following sub project:

“Internal decarbonization dynamics in companies (WP1): To explain what kind of practices are taken into consideration, we analyze the internal dynamics within companies (Busch & Hoffmann, 2011; Engels et al., 2020; Wruk et al., 2019b) and among stakeholder groups (Sprengel & Busch, 2011), such as employees and unions, internal structures, such as management structures and professions, and the relationship towards climate change, such as reactions to extreme events and material conditions for production. To do so, we will broaden the CLICCS company panel with 20 large companies from Germany, the US, Brazil, Hong Kong, and Japan, by adding companies from South Africa and Iran. By asking in-depth questions repeatedly, central internal dynamics become visible (M1.C).”

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field.

Applicants should have a master’s degree in Sociology or adjacent disciplines, with several years of professional experience in the qualitative analysis of companies; doctorate desirable.

Further requirements are excellent qualitative and/or quantitative research methods skills, profound English skills, interests in the area of corporate carbon/climate strategies, willingness to publish high-level research papers. As we analyze companies in their societal environments, a proven publication record in this field is required.

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply. Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Anita Engels

Anika Hummel

Location

Allende-Platz 1
20146 Hamburg

Reference number

Application deadline

2026-02-13

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the following documents:

cover letter
CV
copies of degree certificate(s)

If you experience technical problems, send an email to .

More information on in selection procedures.