The Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research (MPIDR) is recruiting a postdoctoral researcher to join the research group “Gender Inequalities and Fertility”, led by Dr. Nicole Hiekel.

The research group investigates the determinants and consequences of gender inequalities and their role in explaining fertility behavior and outcomes of family formation and family enlargement. A particular focus is drawn on contexts of diverse and complex partnership forms and dynamics.

We welcome applications from researchers with a PhD in demography, sociology or related disciplines. The successful candidate will develop their own research agenda and contribute to the successful realization of collaborative projects within the research group. We are seeking creative, self-driven, and collaborative researchers with remarkable social and communication skills. Strong quantitative analysis skills and knowledge of the statistical software packages R or Stata are required. Experience with survey data analysis on the individual and household level, as well as the analysis of administrative data using longitudinal data analysis as well as cohort analysis is an advantage.

We provide a stimulating research-oriented community, an excellent infrastructure, and opportunities to work with exciting datasets. The successful applicant will be offered a contract for 3 years with the possibility for an extension of 2 more years. Remuneration commensurate to experience (starting from approx. 57,000 EUR gross per year for researchers who have just completed their PhD, up to approx. 71,000 EUR gross per year for more senior scientists), based on the salary structure of the German public sector (Öffentlicher Dienst, TVöD Bund). It is expected that successful applicants will be in residence at the MPIDR. Support for relocation costs is available.

Please apply online via https://survey.demogr.mpg.de/index.php/438595?lang=en and include in a single PDF file:

- Curriculum Vitae

- Letter of interest (max. 1 page)
Briefly state why you are interested in joining the MPIDR, how the MPIDR could foster your professional development and career trajectory, and how your interests fit those of the Research Group on Gender Inequalities and Fertility.

- Research Statement (max. 2 pages)
Briefly describe your research accomplishments, as well as ongoing and future research plans. Describe your technical skills, areas of expertise, as well as the type of advanced training that you would like to receive as a research scientist.

- A writing example (e.g., one of your publications)

- Contact information for up to 2 academic referees

In order to receive full consideration, please apply by September 19. Interviews are planned for the week from October 24 to 28 and will be held virtually. The exact starting date is flexible but latest in the first quarter of 2023. Applicants should have completed their doctoral degree; however, PhD students who expect to obtain their degree in 2022 or early 2023 may apply.

For inquiries about the position, please contact Nicole Hiekel at hiekel@demogr.mpg.de.

The MPIDR is one of the leading demographic research centers in the world. It is part of the Max Planck Society, a network of 86 institutes that form Germany’s premier basic-research organization. Max Planck Institutes have an established record of world-class, foundational research in the sciences, technology, social sciences and the humanities. They offer a unique environment that combines the best aspects of an academic setting and a research laboratory.

The MPIDR is an equal opportunities employer. Our work atmosphere includes respectful treatment of each other, with gender, nationality, religion, disability, age, cultural origin, and sexual identity playing no role. We aim to have an institutional culture that enables everyone to develop their individual skills and competencies.

The Max Planck Society offers a broad range of measures to support the reconciliation of work and family. These are complemented by the MPIDR’s own initiatives. For more information, see: demogr.mpg.de/go/work-family.

In addition, there are a range of central initiatives and measures primarily geared towards helping young female researchers and mothers to advance their career. See the link below for some examples: demogr.mpg.de/go/career-development.

We value diversity and are keen to employ individuals from minorities and under-represented groups.

The Max Planck Society is committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such qualified individuals. Furthermore, the Max Planck Society seeks to increase the number of women in those areas where they are underrepresented and therefore explicitly encourages women to apply.