The Leibniz Institute of European History (IEG) in Mainz is a research institute within the Leibniz Association. It conducts and supports research on early modern and contemporary European history and is engaged in furthering the digital humanities.
The IEG with its DH Lab invites applications for a full-time
postdoctoral position (research associate) (m, f, x)
– Digitality of Historical Research –
to start on 1st of July 2026. In accordance with the German WissZeitVG the contract is fixed-term and limited to a maximum of five years. Salary: German pay grade TV-L EG 13. Job-sharing is possible.
Key responsibilities
- Conducting an individual research project in the field of European history since c. 1500 with a strong emphasis on digital tools and methods. We particularly welcome comparative and cross-border perspectives on the social, religious, cultural, or environmental history of Europe
- Participation in the development of the IEG’s research agenda through publications and research activities
- Consulting academic staff and guests of the IEG on the conception and application of digital tools and methods
- Taking on cross-sectional tasks in the DH Lab team at the interface of historical research and digital technologies
- Participation in the enhancement of digital research infrastructures and in the design of innovative research projects in regional, national, and European networks
- Collaboration in the Mainz Centre for Digitality in the Humanities and Cultural Studies (mainzed) and teaching within the MA programme »Digital Methodology«
Your profile
- PhD degree in a field relevant to the job description (prior to taking up the position)
- competences in the historically working humanities/cultural studies and in informatics/information science (verified e.g. by publications and/or project)
- international research outlook
- excellent communication and organisational skills, a strong team spirit, and a cooperative mindset
- understanding of interdisciplinary research
- very good command of English
- good knowledge of German or willingness to learn German within a reasonable time during the contract period
In addition, we would appreciate the following skills:
- in-depth knowledge (application and reflection) of:
- Artificial Intelligence or
- Machine Learning or
- Natural Language Processing or
- (Historical) Network Analysis
- Experience in cooperative and interdisciplinary research projects
- Initial teaching experience at university level or other proven teaching experience
We offer
- opportunities for professional development in a renowned research institute
- potential for shaping and expanding your academic profile
- a creative and motivating working environment
- collaboration opportunities in an international team
- further training
- flexible working time arrangements
Applications
Please send your application (including CV, transcripts, list of publications and a project outline of no more than 1000 words) via email to the Leibniz Institute of European History (bewerbung@ieg-mainz.de) by 09.03.2026, stating reference number WMA-DH-2026; all documents should be submitted in a single file (PDF).
The IEG promotes professional equality between women and men and is committed to reconciling work and family life. Women are particularly encouraged to apply.
Candidates with severe disabilities and appropriate qualifications will be given preferential consideration.
The IEG is strongly committed to non-discriminatory selection practices and encourages applications from individuals who will make our institute even more diverse.
For any questions, please contact Thorsten Wübbena (head of the DH Lab: wuebbena@ieg-mainz.de).
