2025 Cost of Cybercrime PhD Scholarship at Max Planck Institute Germany

The position requires a sound understanding of economics, data analysis, IT affinity, and a high interest in crime research, especially cybercrime. The position is embedded in an international, interdisciplinary consortium project in which experts from the fields of criminology, economics, psychology, and law collaborate. As part of this application-oriented project, the prevalence of various forms of cybercrime is to be mapped, and the economic and social damages incurred are to be precisely estimated. The position also offers extensive opportunities to liaise with governmental and societal actors in the field of IT security in Germany. The project's findings may lead to improved law enforcement and legislation, and provide new approaches in line with UN Sustainable Development Goals 10 and 16, on how to ensure free access to the benefits of information technology for all without increasing the risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Table of Content

• Summary
• Requirements
• Application Documents
• Application Deadline
• How To Apply

Summary

• Application DeadlineNovember 2, 2025
• ValueFully funded
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorMax Planck Institute
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Requirements

• A completed (or nearly completed) university degree (Master's or equivalent) in economics, business informatics, or a related discipline;
• Strong IT affinity;
• Excellent English and German skills, both written and spoken, are essential;
• A high level of commitment, resilience, teamwork, and self-organization;
• Initial experience conducting online surveys, especially with expertise in statistical analysis methods, is desirable;
• Sociability and experience in professional interaction with stakeholders are a plus;
• A desire to expand competencies in the areas of statistics and methodology;
• Experience with project work in distributed teams is an advantage;
• Interest in behavioral economics and the study of human decision-making based on theory-driven approaches.

Ideal candidates are committed to Open Science and transparent research practices.

Application Documents

1. A motivation letter (max. two pages), including a clear explanation as to how your interests and profile match the project goals and selection criteria;
2. Name and email address of at least one scholar who has agreed to provide a reference for you;
3. Your CV, including a list of publications (if any, either as first author or co-author);
4. A writing sample, e.g., your Master’s thesis, a seminar paper, a first-authored journal article, etc.;
5. Study certificates and transcripts of records.

Application Deadline

November 2, 2025

How To Apply

Are you qualified and interested in this opportunity? Kindly go to Max Planck Institute on recruitingapp-5535.de.umantis.com to apply

Questions may be directed to Dr. Dr. Hannes Rusch ([email protected]) or Dr. Annika Hampel, Recruitment Officer ([email protected]).

For more information, kindly visit Max Planck Institute scholarship webpage.