[Commlist] Vacancy: Research Associate (Postdoc) in Journalism Research, University of Hamburg, Germany

Research Associate for the Project “Isomorphism through AI? Exploring 
Journalistic AI via Industry Awards” (Postdoc)

University of Hamburg, Germany

Salary level: EGR. 13 TV-L

Start date: 01.06.2026, fixed until 31.05.2029

Application deadline: 15.02.2026

Scope of work: full-time position suitable for part-time

Your responsibilities

Duties include academic services in the project named above. Research 
associates may also pursue further academic qualifications outside of 
their work responsibilities.

The DFG-funded project “Isomorphism through AI? Exploring Journalistic 
AI via Industry Awards” investigates how artificial intelligence is 
implemented in journalism and how institutional pressures shape the 
convergence or divergence of AI use cases across news organizations. 
Taking global journalism AI awards as field-configuring events, the 
project combines longitudinal quantitative content analysis, qualitative 
interviews, and surveys to study institutional logics, isomorphic 
pressures, and innovation diversity in journalistic AI. The position 
offers an excellent opportunity for postdoctoral researchers seeking to 
develop an independent research profile at the intersection of 
journalism studies, organizational theory, and AI-related media research.

Your profile

A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.

Required Qualifications

completed PhD in Communication Studies, Journalism Studies or a related 
discipline

solid knowledge of organizational and/or institutional theory (e.g. 
organizational sociology, institutional theory, field and innovation 
theories)

solid training in empirical social science methods

experience with quantitative and qualitative data analysis

proven or emerging track record of international peer-reviewed academic 
publications

excellent command of English (written and spoken)

Desirable

experience with AI-, data-, or technology-related research in journalism

familiarity with mixed-methods or longitudinal research designs

interest in journalism, media innovation, and democratic implications of 
technology

experience working in collaborative and interdisciplinary research 
environments

command of German (written and spoken)

We offer

Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements

Continuing education opportunities

University pensions

Attractive location

Flexible working hours

Work-life balance opportunities

Health management, EGYM Wellpass

Educational leave

30 days of vacation per annum

Additional benefits:

a key role in a DFG research project advancing journalism research

excellent conditions for academic publishing and career development

intellectual freedom to develop theory-driven, independent research

integration into an internationally connected research group in 
journalism and communication studies

a supportive and inclusive academic environment at a University of 
Excellence

family-friendly working conditions and flexible working arrangements

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest 
research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, 
teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the 
next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the 
global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and 
Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives 
collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the 
Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to 
invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating 
sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.

The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our 
university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, 
or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of 
gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social 
background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.

The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in 
academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply.

Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will 
receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.

Instructions for applying

Contact

Prof. Dr. Juliane Lischka

(juliane.lischka /at/ uni-hamburg.de)

+49 40 2395-24703

Reference number

24

Location

Von-Melle-Park 5

20146 Hamburg

Application deadline

15.02.2026

Use only the online application form to submit your application with the 
following documents:

cover letter

CV

copies of degree certificate(s)

If you experience technical problems, send an email to 
(bewerbungen /at/ uni-hamburg.de).

More information on data protection in selection procedures.

Full post and Link to apply: 
https://www.uni-hamburg.de/stellenangebote/ausschreibung.html?jobID=db88215623d39e87d3c345223cd1cf26b37bedf1 
<https://www.uni-hamburg.de/stellenangebote/ausschreibung.html?jobID=db88215623d39e87d3c345223cd1cf26b37bedf1> 


---------------
The COMMLIST
---------------
This mailing list is a free service offered by Nico Carpentier. Please use it responsibly and wisely.
--
To subscribe or unsubscribe, please visit http://commlist.org/
--
Before sending a posting request, please always read the guidelines at http://commlist.org/
--
To contact the mailing list manager:
Email: (nico.carpentier /at/ commlist.org)
URL: http://nicocarpentier.net
---------------