The IDOS Doctoral Researcher Scholarship 2026 in Germany offers a unique opportunity to pursue a PhD within the DFG-funded FoodDiverse research project. This position combines professional research with a doctoral dissertation, focusing on behavioural strategies to diversify food consumption and plant-based protein intake in Ghana and Germany.
The German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) in Bonn is a leading research institute dedicated to global development and sustainability. It offers a dual PhD Programme, flexible working conditions, and a supportive international environment. The selected researcher will join a collaborative research center and benefit from extensive professional development.
IDOS Doctoral Researcher Benefits
- Part-time position (65%, 25.4 hours/week)
- Salary: €40,000–58,000 gross annually (EG 13 TVöD Bund, 65%)
- Duration: 3 years, extendable up to 9 months
- Flexible working hours & mobile work (up to 60%)
- Subsidized Deutschland-Job-Ticket
- 30 days annual vacation + 6 company vacation days
- Pension contributions (VBLU)
- Professional development training
- Equality and diversity support
IDOS Doctoral Researcher Eligibility Criteria
- Hold a Master’s degree in relevant social sciences or agricultural/nutrition sciences
- Proven knowledge of qualitative and ethnographic research methods
- Strong motivation to pursue a PhD
- Willingness to travel abroad, including tropical regions
- Fluency in English (German is an asset)
- Proof of recognition of foreign degrees via Anabin/ZAB database if applicable
Required Documents
- Cover letter.
- Curriculum Vitae.
- Relevant certificates.
- Proof of recognition of foreign degree (Anabin/ZAB excerpt).
Eligible Fields
- Human Geography
- Sociology
- Political Science
- Anthropology
- Agricultural/Nutrition Sciences
How to Apply for IDOS Doctoral Researcher
- Prepare a cover letter
- Prepare a curriculum vitae
- Gather relevant certificates
- Obtain a database excerpt from Anabin as proof of recognition of foreign degree by ZAB (if applicable)
- Submit all materials through the official application portal
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the IDOS Doctoral Researcher Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the IDOS Doctoral Researcher Scholarship?
It is a fully funded PhD position at the German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) in Bonn, Germany. The position is part of the DFG-funded FoodDiverse research project and includes fieldwork in Ghana and Germany.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is 14 June 2026 at 23:59 CET. All required documents must be submitted through the official application portal before this date.
What are the eligibility criteria?
Applicants must hold a Master’s degree in relevant social sciences or agricultural/nutrition sciences, have proven knowledge of qualitative and ethnographic research methods, be fluent in English, and be willing to travel abroad. German language skills are an asset.
What benefits does the scholarship provide?
The position offers a part-time contract (65%, 25.4 hours/week) with a salary of €40,000–58,000 gross annually, flexible working hours, mobile work options, subsidized Deutschland-Job-Ticket, 30 days annual vacation plus 6 company vacation days, pension contributions, and professional development training.
How long is the position?
The position is for 3 years, with the possibility of extension up to 9 months. It is designed to allow the researcher to complete a PhD dissertation within the IDOS dual PhD Programme.
Where will the research be conducted?
The researcher will be based at IDOS in Bonn, Germany, and will carry out empirical research in Ghana and Germany. The project focuses on behavioural strategies to diversify food consumption and plant-based protein intake.
What documents are required for application?
Applicants need to submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, relevant certificates, and a database excerpt from Anabin as proof of recognition of foreign degree by ZAB (if applicable).
Is the position open to international applicants?
Yes, the position is open internationally. However, foreign degrees must be recognized in Germany, and proof of recognition via the Anabin/ZAB database is required if applicable.
What research methods are expected?
The position requires proven knowledge of qualitative and ethnographic research methods. Experience in Africa is considered an asset. The research will involve fieldwork and policy analysis.
How are candidates selected?
Selection is based on the fit of the research proposal with the subproject, demonstrated methodological expertise, experience in Africa (asset), and strong writing, communication, and organizational skills.
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