Leuphana University PhD Positions in Transformation Research

The newly established international doctoral programme “Embracing Transformation” invites applications from academically outstanding and committed Master’s graduates striving to become part of a new hub for transformation research at Leuphana University of Lüneburg. The doctoral scholars will take part in a unique university-wide research endeavor, combining both disciplinary and interdisciplinary seminars, workshops and conferences related to international transformation research. The unique and internationally competitive doctoral programme provides cutting-edge methods and advanced theories in six interdisciplinary research fields (Key Subject Areas) of which the following are still open for applications: 

• Key Subject Area “Climate Futures in Digital Cultures”

Research Theme: Climate Futures in Digital Migration and Border Control

• Key Subject Area “Companies as Drivers of Sustainability Transformations”

Research Theme 1: Reconfiguring Stakeholder Relations for Sustainable Transformation in the Digital Age

Research Theme 2: Business as a lever for sustainable development

• Key Subject Area “Toward a Regenerative Society”

Research Theme: Regeneration in Governance and Law

• Hub Science “Psychology of Transformation”

Research Theme: Key Agents of Transformation: Politics

The best research proposals for each research theme are eligible for an excellence-based scholarship – candidates, who do not receive a scholarship may also be considered for inclusion in the doctoral programme if they meet the academic criteria and have other funding sources (self- or external funding) available. The six Key Subject Areas are carried out under the umbrella of the new Leuphana Transformation Lab and are a joint endeavor of Leuphana’s five schools of research: Culture and Society, Education, Management and Technology, Public Affairs as well as Sustainability.

Table of Content

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

Summary

• Application DeadlineFebruary 14, 2026
• Study LevelPhD
• SponsorLeuphana University of Lüneburg
• City to studyLower Saxony
• School to studyLeuphana University of Lüneburg
• Eligible CountryAll Countries

Benefits

• Unique doctoral programme featuring interdisciplinary seminars on transformation research
• Monthly stipend of € 1,850 with additional child allowance for the top applicants (3 years, starting in April 2026)
• Exclusive professional programme on “Transformative leadership and responsibility”
• Eligibility for research funding covering for research expenses up to € 4,000 annually
• Access to dedicated office space within Leuphana’s outstanding campus facilities

Requirements

• Excellent Master’s degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject area
• Profound interest in transformation research

Application Documents

• A qualified research proposal of the envisaged dissertation project
• Letter of motivation stating your interest in participating in the interdisciplinary research project
• Curriculum Vitae
• Master's degree certificate
• If already applicable: copy of your enrolment for Leuphana's doctoral studies – Please note: Enrolment for doctoral studies at Leuphana is a prerequisite for the final granting of the scholarship.
   

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

Application Deadline

How To Apply

• Please visit the website for more information regarding the research themes, the programme, and the application process.