Postdocs or Research Associates

The Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research (MPIDR) is looking for 2-3 highly qualified postdoctoral and postdoctoral researchers for the newly founded work area “Digital and computer-assisted demography”.

The MPIDR is one of the world’s leading centers for population science. The institute belongs to the Max Planck Society, a network of more than 80 institutes, which together form Germany’s leading institution in basic research. The basic research of Max Planck Institutes is considered to be the world leader in science, technology and humanities. The unique environment of the institutes combines the best aspects of an academic environment and a research facility.

The workgroup “Digital and Computer-Aided Demography”, headed by MPIDR Director Emilio Zagheni, is looking for applicants with a background in demography, data science, computer science, statistics, economics, sociology, geography, applied mathematics or related disciplines.

Successful candidates should have a doctorate (or are about to graduate) and conduct cutting-edge research in the field of digital and computational demographics.

The focal points of the work area include:

1. the use of web and social media data to investigate demographic processes such as changes in migration and birth behavior, health indicators, intergenerational relationships, and gender disparities.
2. the development of innovative forms of data collection for demographic research (eg surveys via web and social media advertising platforms or data collection via sensors, tracking devices or web apps).
3. the use of agent-based models and microsimulation techniques to better understand demographic processes at the level of individuals and populations.
4. the assessment of the effects of the digitization of our lives on demographic behavior and on population processes.

Depending on their interest and suitability, successful candidates could have the opportunity to work on ongoing collaborations with leading digital and computer-assisted demographic scientists from other institutions; including Ingmar Weber (Qatar Computing Research Institute) and Francesco Billari (University of Luigi Bocconi).

The application is made in English in the online process via https://www.demogr.mpg.de/go/apply-dcdrs/ and should contain the following documents:

1. curriculum vitae
2. Letter of motivation (max 1 page)
   Give a brief explanation of why you are interested in applying at the MPIDR to what extent the position at MPIDR could be conducive to your professional development and career path and to what extent your interests match the research strengths of the MPIDR cover.
3. Research Statement (max 1 page)
   Briefly present your research results as well as your current and future research projects. Describe also your technical knowledge, your special fields and which programs of further qualification you would like to participate in as a researcher.
4. Name and contact details of 3 persons for academic references
5. One or two written samples or publications

To be fully considered, applications should be received by 8 April 2018 . The start of work is flexible but should not be later than autumn 2018. Successful applicants will be offered a 3-year contract; the remuneration is based on experience and qualification (from approx. EUR 50,000 gross annually) and is governed by the collective agreement for the civil service (TVöD Bund). For inquiries about the application process, please contact sekzagheni@demogr.mpg.de .

The institute values ​​diversity and strives for greater representation of minorities, women and people with disabilities. Furthermore, the institute and the Max Planck Society want to increase the proportion of women in areas where women are underrepresented. Women are therefore explicitly invited to apply. The MPIDR and the Max Planck Society have set themselves the goal of employing more severely disabled people. Applications of severely disabled people are welcome.