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The German Centre for Astrophysics (DZA) is currently being established in Lusatia as a major research institution. Its mission is to combine scientific excellence and strategic leadership in German astrophysics with an active contribution to regional structural transformation.
The Department of Transformation Research and Regional Development supports this process through scientific research and investigates regional effects as well as the conditions that shape successful transformation processes in the context of the DZA’s establishment.
The following position is to be filled permanently at the earliest possible date:
Research Associate (f/m/d) – Regional Socio-Economic Transformation
Depending on personal qualifications, renumeration based on pay grade E 13 TVöD Bund (according to the German federal pay scale)
YOUR TASKS:
- Conduct independent socio-economic research on regional processes of transformation and structural change in the context of the DZA
- Analyse socio-economic effects, value chain dynamics, and sectoral changes in the region
- Apply and further develop quantitative empirical methods to analyse causal relationships
- Work with complex datasets (e.g. regional, administrative, panel data)
- Establish and operate a scientific monitoring system, including the development of indicators and modelling approaches for analysing long-term transformation processes
- Prepare and disseminate results for scientific publications, conferences and policy-relevant contexts
- Collaborate with partners from academia, policy, and regional practice
YOUR PROFILE:
- Completed university degree and a PhD, or equivalent professional experience, in economics, economic geography, or a related quantitative social science field with a strong empirical research focus.
- Strong expertise in quantitative methods for causal inference (e.g., econometrics, advanced statistical modelling, quasi-experimental designs)
- Experience in working with complex datasets (within the German context)
- Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively in an interdisciplinary team
- High proficiency in English and German. Knowledge of a West Slavic language is a plus.
WE OFFER:
- The opportunity to contribute to building Germany’s largest research center for astrophysics
- Active participation in the structural transformation of Upper Lusatia within a scientifically and socially significant project
- Creative freedom in developing forward-looking personnel and organizational structures to support groundbreaking research initiatives
- A dedicated, international, and interdisciplinary working environment with renowned experts from science and industry
- Remuneration according to TVöD Bund, including annual special payments and additional attractive public-sector benefits
- Strong commitment to work-life balance, flexible working hours, and opportunities for part-time employment
The German Centre for Astrophysics (DZA) is committed to equal opportunities and diversity. We welcome applications regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social background, religion or belief, disability, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity.
The DZA aims to increase the proportion of women in science and therefore expressly encourages women to apply. Applications from persons with severe disabilities are particularly welcome. In the case of equal suitability, preference will be given to severely disabled applicants or persons with equivalent status in accordance with German Social Code IX (SGB IX).
Please submit your application by 31 July 2026 via our online application portal. Please upload your complete application documents (cover letter, detailed CV, copies of certificates, and your possible starting date) include reference number TR-26-08 in your application.