Our new research project Shaping Digital Culture in Public Administration funded by the Stiftung Mercator aims to explore how cultural change, leadership, and digital competences can accelerate digital transformation and strengthen German public administration. In order to strengthen the outreach and impact of the research, the project will collaborate with relevant actors from both public administration and civil society and link to the previous work of the Initiative für einen Handlungsfähigen Staat.

To support this three year research project, the Hertie School is looking for two highly motivated Research Associates. The positions are part-time (50%) and will start at the earliest on 1 February 2026 for a period of 3 years. The positions include the possibility to conduct a PhD in the area of public administration and government digitalization. Remuneration will be in line with TV-L E13 Berlin and the researchers will be associated with our Centre for Digital Governance.

• Conducting theory-driven empirical research in the areas of cultural change, digitalization, leadership and HRM in public administration;
• Collecting and analysing data, and communicating the research findings in workshops and at conferences;
• Liaising with German government and other researchers and networks in the field of digital transformation of German government;
• Organizing practice-oriented formats to strengthen capacity and competence building in German public administration such as learning journeys or closed discussion formats;
• Preparing research publications, research report and policy briefs.

• An excellent university degree (Master or equivalent) in Public Administration, (Public) Management, Public Policy, Organisation Studies, or a related field (we can also accept applications of candidates who will graduate till spring 2026);
• Knowledge of and/or work experience with German public administration;
• Experience with empirical research, as evidenced by your master's thesis, publications, research plans and other projects;
• Experience in managing projects and trainings and liasing with public administration executives;
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with experiences in writing research reports;
• An excellent command of English. Proficiency in German is mandatory.

• 30 days paid holidays per year and up to 20 days workation possible
• Flexible Working Hours
• Good Traffic Connections
• International and diverse work environment
• Mobile working possible