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Research Associates - Global Public Policy institute (GPPi) Berlin, Germany

Research Associates

The Global Public Policy institute (GPPi) seeks to fill 2 Research Associate positions in part-time or full-time, based at the institute’s Berlin office.

The successful candidates will help advance GPPi’s research and dialogue activities at the intersection of global security and the role of rising powers in global governance. Both applicants will be expected to contribute to a new 2.5-year research project on “Global Norm Evolution and the Responsibility Protect” which is coordinated by GPPi, implemented together with six academic partners in Brazil, China, India, Germany, Hungary and the United Kingdom, and funded by the Volkswagen Foundation in cooperation with Compagnia di San Paolo and Riksbankens Jubileumsfond.

The project seeks to make an ambitious, globally collaborative contribution to theory development in International Relations based on in-depth empirical research, including fieldwork in Western and Non-Western countries. The growing assertiveness of rising powers adds to the contestation of global norms which is likely to become more common in the coming decades but remains insufficiently reflected in existing scholarship.

Successful applicants will be expected to work on all aspects of the project, which includes conducting independent field research, writing own academic publications, managing collaborative research in a diverse global team and helping develop and implement an effective outreach strategy. Applicants for part-time positions are encouraged to combine their work with pursuing a PhD that allows them to take or maintain residency in Berlin. Both positions will be based at GPPi’s Berlin office.

We seek:

- Outstanding academic background in the social sciences and strong analytical skills (M.A. or equivalent)

- Strong knowledge in the area of international relations (particularly IR theory and research on norms)

- Strong background knowledge on the debates about a “responsibility to protect” and humanitarian intervention

- Excellent intercultural communication skills based on substantive personal experience in a culturally diverse work/study environment.

- Work/travel experience in key rising powers, particularly India, Brazil or China, and/or country expertise on countries in violent conflict desirable

- Excellent English-language writing skills; command of German is an asset but not a must;

Candidates must be self-driven and able to work independently. Candidates must be able to make a firm commitment for the full duration of the project.

GPPi offers a dynamic work environment in the center of Germany’s capital, a young and international team working in a strong global network and an attractive platform for innovative researchers to develop their research interests and sharpen their academic and professional profile.

GPPi is an equal opportunity employer. Female candidates and non-EU citizens are particularly encouraged to apply for these positions. Non-EU citizens should clearly indicate whether they are in the possession of a valid EU work visa, but not having such a visa will not negatively prejudge the application.

Starting date: to be determined, not before 1 October 2012. Please indicate availability.

For more information about the project, please visit http://www.gppi.net/approach/research/global_norm_evolution_and_the_responsibility_to_protect/. For further information on the institute, please consult our website at http://www.gppi.net/.

To apply, please send your CV, a brief letter of interest and two previously produced writing samples (one theory-driven, one policy-focused) to Philipp Rotmann at globalnorms@gppi.net. Please do not submit paper applications or inquire about your application on the phone. Questions via email are welcome. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted with a request for writing samples.

Closing date: 31 August 2012. Early applications are encouraged.