PhD Position Power Dynamics Conservation Humboldt University Berlin (2026)

The Geography Department at the Humboldt University of Berlin is officially inviting applications for a research role focused on understanding and shifting power imbalances within biodiversity conservation movements. This PhD Position Power Dynamics Conservation Humboldt University Berlin is a central component of the “POWERSHIFT” project, which is funded by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG). The successful candidate will join an international consortium aimed at fostering more just and sustainable governance through the integration of insights from social change movements.

Organization Name	Humboldt University of Berlin (Geography Department)
Project Name	POWERSHIFT
Remuneration	E13 TV-L, 65% (German Public Sector Scale)
Duration	3 Years
Job Location	Berlin, Germany (includes field travel)

Project Objectives & Research Focus

The POWERSHIFT project investigates the operation of power across multiple scales in biodiversity conservation. Key research areas for this role include:

• Understanding Power Dynamics (WP1): Analyzing how power operates within local interventions and collaborative conservation networks to influence social-ecological outcomes.
• Policy and Scaling (WP4): Testing how power-sensitive strategies can be integrated into policy contexts and scaled through cross-sectoral collaborations.
• Methodological Framework: The research utilizes qualitative methods, transdisciplinary workshops with practitioners, and scenario-based visioning.

Tasks and Responsibilities

The candidate selected for this position will be responsible for the following tasks:

• Design and execute an independent PhD project aligned with the POWERSHIFT framework.
• Conduct fieldwork in arid mountain ecosystems and participate in research visits to consortium partners.
• Engage with policy-makers in the EU and field sites to contribute to policy-relevant outputs.
• Analyze data using qualitative or mixed methods and publish results in peer-reviewed journals.
• Support project coordination, including the organization of transdisciplinary workshops.

Qualification Requirements

Applicants must meet specific academic and professional criteria to be considered for this research opportunity.

Required Qualifications

• Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Human Geography, Political Ecology, Sociology, or Conservation Science.
• Demonstrated interest in themes of power, justice, and governance within conservation contexts.
• Training in qualitative social research methods, including semi-structured interviews and ethnography.
• Excellent command of written and spoken English.

Desirable Qualifications

• Experience in transdisciplinary work or engaging with policy-makers.
• Working knowledge of German, Russian, or Kyrgyz.
• Basic experience with quantitative research methods.

Application Procedure

To apply, candidates must submit their application as a combined PDF file to Ms. Barbara Richter (barbara.richter@geo.hu-berlin.de).

1. Motivation Letter: A maximum of 2 pages outlining your interest and fit for the project.
2. CV: Comprehensive academic and professional history.
3. Writing Sample: A Master’s thesis, published article, or research report.
4. Referees: Contact details for two professional references.

Important Links & Dates

Event	Date / Link
Application Deadline	28 February, 2026
Starting Date	1 June, 2026 (or earlier)
Reference Number	DR/019/26
Official Advertisement	Click Here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the salary for this position at HU Berlin?
The position offers remuneration according to the TV-L E13, 65% scale of the German public sector.

Does the project involve international travel?
Yes, the role includes travel to field sites in arid mountain ecosystems and research visits to partner institutions in France, Sweden, and Italy.

Who is encouraged to apply?
Applicants from snow leopard range countries and women are especially encouraged to apply. Applicants with disabilities will also be given preferential consideration given equivalent qualifications.