Call for Applications: for postdoc position at Max Planck Institute for Social Law and Social Policy in Munich, Germany, Apply by 19 February 2026

Your tasks

The selected candidate will be part of the research group headed by Dr. Simone M. Schneider and supported by the European Research Council (ERC Starting Grant, Project 101042125). The group collects legal information of social security systems in the fields of healthcare, old age security, unemployment, and minimum protection across 50 countries for three time points with the aim of creating a unique country-comparative dataset on institutionally enshrined disparities. More information on the project´s objectives is provided on our website.

The successful candidate will contribute to the group’s research and will work in collaboration with the PI primarily on the data collection and systematization. The specific tasks include: (1) contributing to the development of new analytical tools for the empirical assessment and comparison of welfare state institutions, (2) leading and coordinating the collection of legal information from policy experts, (3) assisting in the coding and creation of a cross-country comparative quantitative dataset, (4) working independently on publications and reports closely aligned with the project´s research, (5) engaging actively in all of the project´s scientific and public activities.

Your profile

The ideal candidate has excellent knowledge in the field of comparative social policy and comparative research methods. The applicant is expected to hold a PhD in Political Science, Sociology, Economics or a related discipline. Knowledge and experience in data collection, quantitative data analysis, as well as in project coordination and collaboration is highly desirable. The ability to work independently, responsibly, and to collaborate within a research team is essential. Fluency in written and spoken English is expected; command of additional languages is an advantage.

We offer

The position is based on a 18-months fixed-term contract with the option for an extension under certain conditions. It is a fully funded research position with no teaching obligations. The position can be part-time or full-time (currently 39 hours/week). Remuneration and social benefits are based on the Collective Wage Agreement for the Public Service (TVöD Bund), group 13 (entry level depending on prior experience). We offer attractive working conditions in a modern, well-equipped institute with a global network. Our institute holds the world’s largest social law library and is located in the heart of Munich.