Is this internship right for you?
The Doctoral Researcher internship at GESIS – Leibniz-Institut für Sozialwissenschaften in Köln is ideal for students pursuing a PhD in social sciences or related fields. This opportunity allows students to engage in cutting-edge research, gain hands-on experience in data analysis, and develop critical thinking skills essential for academic and professional success.
To stand out when applying, candidates should highlight their research experience and familiarity with quantitative or qualitative methodologies. Additionally, showcasing strong communication skills and a genuine interest in social science research can greatly enhance an application.
Role & details
GESIS – Leibniz-Institute for the Social Sciences is an internationally active research institute, funded by federal and state governments and member of the Leibniz Association.
Starting on October 1, 2026 our Department Computational Social Science (CSS), Team Data Science Methods located in Cologne, is looking for a
Doctoral Researcher
(Salary group 13 TV-L, working time 60 %, limited until 31.03.2027)
The department Computational Social Science (CSS) collects digital behavioral data and provides computer-based methods for collecting and analyzing such data for social science research. It also supports scientists with the integration of digital behavioral data into their research designs. The department's research focuses on the quality of digital behavioral data, the development and validation of computational social science methods and the transformation of digital societies.
The project Dehumanization Online: Measurements and Consequences, funded by the Leibniz Association, is dedicated to the phenomenon of dehumanization, i.e. the external devaluation of certain social groups on digital platforms. The project aims to develop new text mining and machine learning methods to address the problem of dehumanization online. This methodical approach is the basis for a more accurate picture of the affected groups, actors and (communication) channels used.
Your tasks will be:- Development, application and evaluation of analytical methods for measuring dehumanization on digital platforms
- Collection and processing of social media and web data
- Publication of research results with those responsible for the project
Your profile:- Completed master’s degree in computer science, social sciences, physics, mathematics or a related discipline
- Interest in interdisciplinary research on social and socio-technical phenomena
- Very good programming skills in languages related to data science (R, Python, Java etc.)
- Very good English skills, both written and spoken
- Communication and teamwork skills, as well as the ability to organize your work well
Our Benefits:- An exciting international working environment for interdisciplinary research that also supports you in developing your research profile
- Flexible working hours and regulations for mobile working
- Very good conditions for reconciling work and family life, e.g. subsidies for childcare for children who have not yet attained the age of compulsory schooling
- Holistic company health management and discounted participation in the university's sports programme
- Generous support for your pension provision as a direct insurance policy
- Promotion of your skills through further training measures
ContactFor further information concerning the tasks please contact Prof. Dr. Claudia Wagner via E-Mail (have questions about the application process, please contact Christine Laßmann via E-Mail (Please apply via our Online-application portal until August 25, 2026.
Our reference number is: CSS-125intern
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