The Max Planck Institute for the History of Science (MPIWG), Berlin,
offers several Postdoctoral Fellowships (residential, 12+ months),
to take place within the period from 1 August 2022 to July 31 2024.

As part of the Max Planck Sabbatical Award Program, we invite scholars to apply for participation in the Working Group “Time Scales: Historicizing Deep Time,” directed by Sabbatical Award Laureate Sophia Roosth (NYU/MPIWG). The working group explores how researchers in the natural and exact sciences (such as earth and planetary sciences, astronomy, climatology, glaciology, hydrology, and cosmology) have conceived of, conceptualized, and delineated deep time. How, for example, do researchers define local and global time periods? What methods, techniques, and material supports assist them in marking, cataloging, and (especially) understanding deep time?

We welcome applications from candidates in every field within history, the history of science and technology, science and technology studies, and the anthropology of science, who conduct research related to these topics. Some preference will be given to research that is multilingual or transregional in scope.

Postdoctoral fellows receive a stipend commensurate with experience for their period of residence, and reimbursement for a return ticket to and from their place of residence. 

The successful candidates are expected to take part in the scientific life of the Institute, to advance their own research project, and to actively contribute to the group’s activities during their period of residence. 

Candidates are requested to submit:

1.  a cover letter (indicating your preferred period of residence)
2.  curriculum vitae (including a list of publications)
3.  a research prospectus on a topic related to the project (1000 words maximum)
4. writing sample
5. contact information of three scholars who could submit letters of recommendation if requested

Applications must be submitted in English via our online application portal: https://recruitment.mpiwg-berlin.mpg.de/position/22347791.

Please note that only complete electronic submissions uploaded to this link will be accepted. Applications sent via email will not be accepted. Only successful candidates will be notified.

Review of applications will commence from 25 April 2022 and continue until the fellowships are awarded.

The Max Planck Society strives to foster an inclusive environment for all. As an institute, MPIWG encourages applications from individuals regardless of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, nationality, and/or disabilities, particularly where underrepresented in our community. Visit these webpages to learn more about MPIWG’s policies toward gender equality and recruitment practices for persons with disabilities.