Goethe University of Frankfurt/Main

9 Doc/Post-doc positions (IZO, Goethe University, Frankfurt/Main)

Beginning in January 2014, the Interdisciplinary Centre of East Asian Studies (IZO) at Goethe University Frankfurt/Main will launch a new research project “Protecting the weak” with support from the Volkswagen Foundation´s initiative “Key Issues for Academia and Society”. The project investigates how new public claims for the protection of weak groups and interests in contemporary Japan and China are gaining social acceptance against the historical backdrop of East Asian constructions of modernity. Based on four comparative case studies devoted to (1) disaster victims, (2) employee wellbeing, (3) cultural heritage and (4) animal welfare, the project members will analyze the interactive processes of “protecting the weak” at the intersections of international and domestic spheres (for details: www.izo.uni-frankfurt.de/44349637/Protecting-the-Weak).

Within the framework of this interdisciplinary research project, the faculties of law (FB01), economics (FB02), social sciences (FB03) and linguistics, cultures, and arts (FB09) at Goethe University are searching for candidates to fill

8 Ph.D./Post Doc Positions
(E13 TV-G-U, part-time)

subject to receiving funding by VolkswagenStiftung, initially for three years.

The successful Post Doc/PhD applicants are expected to investigate one of the topics (1) – (4) mentioned above with regard either to Japan or China.

1 Post Doc Position
(E 13 TV-G-U, fulltime)

subject to receiving funding by VolkswagenStiftung , initially for three years.

The successful candidate will do research on the history of the reception and appropriation of foreign ideas on protecting the weak in late 19th and early 20th century Japan and China. He or she will also examine the question of how the emergence of modern practices of protection is related to indigenous traditions of philanthropy and religious beliefs.

Eligibility: Candidates must hold an excellent master’s (Post Doc: doctoral) degree or equivalent in Chinese studies, Japanese studies, history, law, economics/management, political sciences, sociology or other relevant disciplines. Proficiency in English as well as Japanese and/or Chinese is essential.  All candidates must be willing and able to regularly participate in the activities of the integrative research project.

We offer:

an inspiring interdisciplinary research environment,
a thriving international network, and
special funds for research in Japan or China.

To apply, send your cover letter, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, sample of publications and/or a short summary of your Master thesis/outline of your Ph.D. dissertation as well as names and contact details of two referees until 30.09.2013 via email to Prof. Dr. Heike Holbig (Holbig@soz.uni-frankfurt.de).Goethe University Frankfurt is an equal opportunity/affirmative-action employer. In case of equality of qualification and suitability of applicants, the applications made by female researchers will be given preferential consideration. We also encourage and welcome applications from disabled persons.