2026 Research Associate at the University of Hamburg

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. 

Duties include academic services in the project “Isomorphism through AI? Exploring Journalistic AI via Industry Awards” (Postdoc). Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities.

The DFG-funded project investigates how artificial intelligence is implemented in journalism and how institutional pressures shape the convergence or divergence of AI use cases across news organizations. Taking global journalism AI awards as field-configuring events, the project combines longitudinal quantitative content analysis, qualitative interviews, and surveys to study institutional logics, isomorphic pressures, and innovation diversity in journalistic AI. 

Table of Content

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

Summary

• Application DeadlineFebruary 15, 2026
• Study LevelPostdoctoral Fellowships
• SponsorUniversity of Hamburg
• City to studyHamburg
• School to studyUniversity of Hamburg
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements
• Continuing education opportunities
• University pensions
• Attractive location
• Flexible working hours
• Work-life balance opportunities
• Health management, EGYM Wellpass
• Educational leave
• 30 days of vacation per annum

Additional benefits:

• a key role in a DFG research project advancing journalism research
• excellent conditions for academic publishing and career development
• intellectual freedom to develop theory-driven, independent research
• integration into an internationally connected research group in journalism and communication studies
• a supportive and inclusive academic environment at a University of Excellence
• family-friendly working conditions and flexible working arrangements

Requirements

• completed PhD in Communication Studies, Journalism Studies or a related discipline
• solid knowledge of organizational and/or institutional theory (e.g. organizational sociology, institutional theory, field and innovation theories)
• solid training in empirical social science methods
• experience with quantitative and qualitative data analysis
• proven or emerging track record of international peer-reviewed academic publications
• excellent command of English (written and spoken)

Desirable

• experience with AI-, data-, or technology-related research in journalism
• familiarity with mixed-methods or longitudinal research designs
• interest in journalism, media innovation, and democratic implications of technology
• experience working in collaborative and interdisciplinary research environments
• command of German (written and spoken)

Application Documents

• cover letter
• CV
• copies of degree certificate(s)

Check also:
2026 Fully Funded Humboldt Research Fellowship
2026 Konrad Adenauer Foundation Scholarship

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Appications are made via the Application form.

For more information, kindy check the University of Hamburg website.