Post Doc Position History of Computing (f/m/x)

Post-Doc Position – History of Computing (f/m/x)

ERC Consolidator Grant “WIRED“

We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region. Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in science, technology, and administration.

The ERC-funded project “Wired History. Computers, Humans, and the Making of Latin American Futures, 1950s–2000s” [WIRED], led by Prof. Dr. Debora Gerstenberger at the Department of History, investigates how people and digital technologies have shaped future-oriented projects and institutions in Latin America since the mid-20th century. Combining approaches from the history of computing, Science and Technology Studies (STS), and social, political, economic, and cultural history, the project explores diverse futuremaking practices and their material and social impacts. We invite applications for a Postdoctoral Researcher to study the history of the computerization of state statistical institutes in Mexico, Colombia, and Peru (1950s–1990s). The position is part of a collaborative research environment and entails close cooperation with the Principal Investigator, the project manager, and two doctoral researchers.

YOUR TASKS

• Conduct independent research on the history of the computerization of state statistical institutes in Latin America (Mexico, Colombia,and Peru) from the 1950s to the 1990s
• Complete a monograph based on this research
• Contribute one or two chapters to a co-authored project monograph jointly developed by all four researchers in the team
• Carry out archival research in relevant locations in Latin America and internationally
• Actively participate in research group activities (e.g. reading groups, workshops, joint publications)
• Present research at international conferences and workshops
• Publish articles in peer-reviewed journals
• Provide scholarly and organizational support to two doctoral researchers in the project
• Contribute to the organization of project activities (e.g. workshops, guest visits, website maintenance)

YOUR PROFILE

• Doctorate in History or a closely related discipline (e.g. Social/Cultural Anthropology, STS, Media Studies)
• Excellent dissertation and demonstrated research potential
• Experience in archival research
• Expertise or strong interest in the history of computing, history of technology, STS, and/or Latin American history
• Excellent proficiency of English and in either Spanish or Portuguese; willingness to learn German is an advantage
• Willingness to undertake extended research stays in Latin America
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international
• research team

WE OFFER

• Excellent research conditions within a dynamic and innovative team
• A diverse working environment with equal opportunities
• Support in balancing work and family life
• Extensive advanced training opportunities
• Occupational health management offers
• Flexible working time models

The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also expressly welcome applications from all suitable candidates regardless of their gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation, and identity.

The position is available from 1 October 2026 on a full-time basis (39,83 hours per week). The position is to be filled for a fixed term until 30 September 2031. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and has the appropriate personal, the salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector.

Please apply online with proof of the required qualifications (without a photo) and include a cover letter explaining your motivation and suitability to participate in the research group, as well as a CV, a writing sample (PhD thesis or recent article), a list of publications (if applicable) and copies of certificates. Please also provide the names of two referees who can be contacted via email or telephone under https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de . The reference number is Wiss2605-08. The application deadline is 27 June 2026. Interviews will take place in July 2026.

For further inquiries, please contact Professor Dr. Debora Gerstenberger (debora.gerstenberger@uni-koeln.de) and take a look at our FAQs.