Researcher (m/f/d) in the research focus “International Cybersecurity”
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OfficeBerlin
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Employment typeTemporary
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ScheduleFull time
Research for Peace and Security
The Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy at the University of Hamburg has been investigating the conditions for peace and security – on a global, regional and local scale – since 1971. The IFSH aims to contribute actively to peace by conducting outstanding and innovative research. Transferring knowledge from research to politics and society is a fundamental part of the institute's work.
We currently employ around 70 colleagues in research, transfer, teaching and administration at our locations in Hamburg and Berlin. Thanks to funding from the City of Hamburg, we are expanding our science and service teams significantly as part of a growth strategy for the coming years. The IFSH is an international and diverse institution. We combine a culture of openness, agility and short communication channels with the reputation of an established and well-connected research institution.
We are looking for a Researcher (m/f/d) in the research focus “International Cybersecurity” at the IFSH, full-time (100%). The position is classified under salary group EG 13 TV-AVH. The duty station is Berlin. The position runs until 31 December 2026, with the option of possible extension, subject to the availability of funds.
The research focus "International Cyber Security" has been funded by the Federal Foreign Office since December 2020 and works closely with political decision-makers, international research institutions, think tanks and industry. The aim is to analyze new technological developments and political trends with the aim of successfully transferring knowledge to politics and society and thus contributing to the international regulation of cyberspace. The IFSH is seeking continued funding for this research focus beyond 2026. A possible extension of the advertised position is therefore dependent on the availability of funds.
For this position we are looking for a scientist (m/f/d) with a background in either political science, computer science or natural sciences with a strong interest in security policy and technological developments in the field of cyber foreign policy & cyber security. Communication skills and the ability to mediate effectively between science and policy would be desirable. The successful candidate will work in a small team within the research focus “International Cybersecurity”.
Your mission
- You will actively contribute to basic research and scientific transfer in the field of international cyber security. Your research focuses on topics such as the role of cyber operations in the context of geopolitical conflicts; development of national cyber security strategies; cyber defense / IT security and resilience; international cooperation in the field of cyber diplomacy.
- Further development of corresponding bilateral and multilateral treaties, norms and rules in cyber foreign policy; approaches to arms control for digital technologies; hybrid warfare and information operations; long-term capacity building, confidence building and crisis management; digital dependencies vs. sovereignty efforts in Germany and Europe.
- You are interested in the current and prospective analysis of political trends in cyberspace with the aim of actively transferring knowledge to politics and society.
- You will cooperate by organizing the international conference “Shaping Cybersecurity” in Berlin
- You will publish your research findings in peer-reviewed publications and in relevant policy formats.
- You will disseminate your research findings through transfer activities vis-à-vis national, international and transnational actors, through public events and active participation in international conferences as well as through interaction with national, international and social media.
Your profile
- You have a scientific university degree or another degree relevant to the position (political science, cyber security, computer science, or natural sciences).
- Your doctorate in a relevant field has been completed or is currently being finalized. Alternatively, you have several years of comparable research experience in the field of information security (or corresponding certificates).
- You demonstrate your scientific expertise in the field of international cyber security through high-quality publications.
- You have excellent written and spoken German and English language skills.
- Communication skills, team orientation, and initiative are required.
- International research experience and networking – ideally also in the business world – is an advantage.
What we offer
In addition to exciting work in a dynamic and highly relevant research environment, we offer the following additional benefits:
A company pension scheme based on the Hamburg pension model
Individual training opportunities as part of our IFSH staff development program
Flexible working hours and the opportunity to work up to 60% from home, depending on your personal situation and job context
Additional incentive pay based on our collective agreement (TV AVH) in the form of a tax-free non-cash benefit card
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