Published: 14 Apr 2026 11 views
Constructor University is seeking a highly motivated PhD candidate to join the research project “Economic Empire. Peripheralization along Chinese-led Green Value Chains” (PI: Prof. Tobias ten Brink) within the larger Research Unit FOR 5913/1. The project focuses on the politico-economic consequences of China’s dominance in key green energy industries, especially its centrality in the value chains for solar photovoltaics, electric vehicles, and batteries. Focusing on Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Malaysia, we will be collecting data on the role of leading Chinese businesses, their alignment with state actors, and on whether and how local elites and businesses turn into subordinated partners. Candidates are encouraged to formulate their own dissertation research, which should contribute to the research goals of the project and the broader research unit.
Constructor University consistently achieves top results in national and international university rankings.
In the CHE Ranking, the most comprehensive and detailed ranking of the German-speaking higher education landscape, Constructor University has achieved top placements every year since its first participation in 2005.
The result counts: trust working hours for work-life balance
Individual on-boarding, career- and development planning
Company fitness program offers with EGYM Well Pass (former Qualitrain)
Green campus with recreation areas
Constructor University has extensive programs on sustainability and environmental sustainability
Very good M.A. degree in political science (especially International Relations or International Political Economy) or related field.
Excellent knowledge of English; applicants fluent in one or more additional relevant languages, such as Mandarin Chinese, Thai or Malay, are preferred
In-depth knowledge of China’s global resurgence and qualitative methods; willingness to experiment methodologically
A strong motivation to work in a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment
A cover letter, including potential themes for the PhD project (max 1500 words)
A curriculum vitae, including proof of C1-level English language skills or the equivalent
Copies of your academic degrees and transcripts
A representative article and/or your Master thesis
Contact details of two academic referees
Check also:
2026 Fully Funded Humboldt Research Fellowship
2026 Konrad Adenauer Foundation Scholarship
For more information, kindly visit the Constructor University webpage.
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