Event details

14. July 2026

Research Associate (m/f/d) - Reference Number: 37-2026 IBIRA-J

Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences | Application deadline: August 25, 2026

At Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, at the Institute for Transformation, Housing, and Social Spatial Development (TRAWOS), a part-time position (30 hours/week) is available—subject to funding—as of October 1, 2026, in the project “Institutional Approaches to Islamist Radicalization Among Young People—Subproject Social Work East: Religion, Youth, and the Socio-Spatial Approach to Islamist Radicalization in the Regional Case of Görlitz,” a part-time position (30 hours/week) is available as of October 1, 2026, for a

Research Associate (m/f/d)
- Reference: 37-2026 IBIRA-J-

to be filled on a fixed-term basis until September 30, 2029.

The project is part of a collaborative research initiative that examines how (attributed) Islamist radicalization among young people is addressed at the institutional level (by the police, social services, and the judiciary). The HSZG subproject focuses on the institutional response by the social work profession, using the Görlitz/East regional study as a case example. The aim is to reconstruct the professional interpretive patterns, rationales for action, and professionalization strategies, as well as the structural interrelationships between the (de-)problematization of Islamism and the specific structural and socio-spatial contexts.

As part of the project, the position holder (m/f/d) will be responsible in particular for the following tasks:

  • Designing, conducting, and evaluating qualitative data collection in the regional studies, particularly (expert) interviews and focused ethnography, grounded theory methodology, and sequence analysis;
  • Collaborating on and independently preparing publications (articles, project reports) and presentations at national and international conferences,
  • Collaborating on the design and implementation of formats for translating research into practice and for science communication,
  • Assisting in the preparation and execution of events.

The following knowledge and skills are required

  • At least a good degree in the humanities or social sciences (such as sociology, cultural studies, education, social work, management of social change, or criminology) from a university (Magister, Diplom, or Master’s) or a university of applied sciences (Master’s),
  • Good knowledge of and at least some experience in applying qualitative-reconstructive research methods (e.g., grounded theory methodology, objective hermeneutics, documentary method, or similar),
  • Interest in the fields of religion and social work, Social work and social control in the social sphere, social work addressing religious and political-ideological radicalization, preferably with some prior research experience (course papers and theses during your studies, work as a student research assistant, or similar).

In addition, the following are desirable:

  • initial experience in science communication and in transferring scientific findings into social practice,
  • an intention to pursue a Ph.D. in this field of research and the ability to combine this position with the start or continuation of a dissertation project.

We expect you to

  • a structured, solution- and service-oriented, and independent approach to work,
  • willingness to travel for work,
  • a willingness and interest in furthering your professional and personal development,
  • commitment, reliability, and flexibility,
  • strong communication and teamwork skills.

We offer you

  • an interesting and challenging field of work,
  • flexible and family-friendly working hours in accordance with the applicable employment agreement,
  • opportunities for personal and professional development through targeted continuing education and training,
  • attractive employee benefits (company pension plan, annual bonus, capital-forming benefits),
  • a workplace health management program with initiatives to promote employee health, as well as
  • the option to use a job ticket.
More Information

If the candidate meets the personal qualifications, compensation will be in Pay Grade 13 of the TV-L collective bargaining agreement. The primary place of work is Görlitz. Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences strives for a balanced workforce and therefore welcomes applications from individuals of all genders. Persons with severe disabilities will be given preferential consideration if they have equivalent professional qualifications. Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences has set a goal of increasing the proportion of women in teaching and research and therefore expressly encourages women to apply.

 

 

Have we piqued your interest? If so, we look forward to receiving your detailed application (including a cover letter, resume, and degrees and employment transcripts) by August 25, 2026 ( date of receipt) via email to :

stellenangebote@hszg.de
(documents must be in PDF format only)

To help protect the environment, we kindly ask that you refrain from sending applications by mail[1] (we are unable to return application materials). Please understand that any costs you incur during the selection process cannot be reimbursed.

If you have any technical questions, please contact the project director, Prof. Dr. phil. Nadine Jukschat (Phone: 03581 374-4854; Email: Nadine.Jukschat@hszg.de). For more information, please visit www.hszg.de.

 

[1] Mailing address: Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, Human Resources and Legal Affairs division, Theodor-Körner-Allee 16, 02763 Zittau

Prof. Nadine Jukschat
Prof. Dr. phil.
Nadine Jukschat
Faculty of Social Sciences
02826 Görlitz
Furtstrasse 2
Building G I, Room 2.11
2nd upper floor
+49 3581 374-4854
M.A.
Heike Kallweit
Human Resources and Legal Division
02763 Zittau
Theodor-Körner-Allee 16
Building Z I, Room 1.06.1
1st floor
+49 3583 612-3060