The research project is funded by the VolkswagenStiftung as part of the Freigeist-Fellowship program. The group is integrated in the School of History at LMU Munich and closely affiliated with the Munich Centre for Global History. A master’s degree (M.A.) or equivalent in History or related discipline in the humanities and social sciences such as Anthropology, Area Studies, Culture Studies, (Comparative) Literature, Political Science, Religious Studies etc with a significant historical focus is required by the time of appointment. Preference will be given to applicants with a training in global and/or extra-European history, including language proficiency in non-European languages (and relevant to the doctoral thesis). International academic experience (study, research, conferences etc.) is an advantage. Moreover, applicants should demonstrate ability in archival and/or fieldwork, commitment to teamwork, and reliability to meet deadlines.
“Radical Utopian Communities” analyzes communal projects in the first half of the twentieth century. The project aims at writing a decentered global history that unearths marginalized histories with new archival evidence and innovative historical narration. It investigates communes in various places of the world. The communities are showcases for the high degree of mobility and entanglement in the early twentieth century. Yet the project critically engages with the image of borderless mobility and ideals of communal harmony. And it focusses people and communities who too often fall through the cracks of mainstream historiography and who provide unexpected angles to look at the modern world and its make-up from the margins.
The doctoral position is offered for the duration of three years. Budget for archival/fieldwork travels, conferences etc. is available. Doctoral candidates will be integrated into a young, dynamic, and internationally well-connected research environment. Over the course of the three years, candidates are recommended to gain teaching experience at LMU.
Applications must include: 1) cover letter, 2) CV, 3) doctoral thesis proposal related to the research project “Radical Utopian Communities” (no longer than 3,000 words, including references), 4) writing sample (preferably in English), 5) copies of diplomas/certificates, and 6) names and contact information of at least two academic referees. Please submit all documents in a single PDF to robert.kramm[at]lrz.uni-muenchen.de by 30 June 2020.
We especially seek applications from qualified individuals with disabilities and welcome applications from women.
For further information and questions regarding the positions and the research project please contact the principal investigator Dr. Robert Kramm (robert.kramm[at]lrz.uni-muenchen.de).
Interviews are scheduled for late July/early August. Considering the current situation, interviews will probably be conducted via Skype or similar applications/channels.