Research Associate for the Project “Isomorphism through AI? Exploring Journalistic AI via Industry Awards” (Postdoc) § 28 Subsection 3 HmbHG
InstitutionFaculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences, Department of Social Sciences, Journalism and Communication Studies, Digital Journalism
Salary level
Start date01.06.2026, fixed until 31.05.2029 (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).
Application deadline15.02.2026
Scope of workfull-time position suitable for part-time
Your responsibilities
Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of their work responsibilities.
The DFG-funded project “Isomorphism through AI? Exploring Journalistic AI via Industry Awards” investigates how artificial intelligence is implemented in journalism and how institutional pressures shape the convergence or divergence of AI use cases across news organizations. Taking global journalism AI awards as field-configuring events, the project combines longitudinal quantitative content analysis, qualitative interviews, and surveys to study institutional logics, isomorphic pressures, and innovation diversity in journalistic AI. The position offers an excellent opportunity for postdoctoral researchers seeking to develop an independent research profile at the intersection of journalism studies, organizational theory, and AI-related media research.
Your profile
A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.
Required Qualifications
1. completed PhD in Communication Studies, Journalism Studies or a related discipline
2. solid knowledge of organizational and/or institutional theory (e.g. organizational sociology, institutional theory, field and innovation theories)
3. solid training in empirical social science methods
4. experience with quantitative and qualitative data analysis
5. proven or emerging track record of international peer-reviewed academic publications
6. excellent command of English (written and spoken)
Desirable
7. experience with AI-, data-, or technology-related research in journalism
8. familiarity with mixed-methods or longitudinal research designs
9. interest in journalism, media innovation, and democratic implications of technology
10. experience working in collaborative and interdisciplinary research environments
11. command of German (written and spoken)
We offer
12. Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements
13. Continuing education opportunities
14. University pensions
15. Attractive location
16. Flexible working hours
17. Work-life balance opportunities
18. Health management, EGYM Wellpass
19. Educational leave
20. 30 days of vacation per annum
Additional benefits:
21. a key role in a DFG research project advancing journalism research
22. excellent conditions for academic publishing and career development
23. intellectual freedom to develop theory-driven, independent research
24. integration into an internationally connected research group in journalism and communication studies
25. a supportive and inclusive academic environment at a University of Excellence
26. family-friendly working conditions and flexible working arrangements
Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.
The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.
The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply.
Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.