Background
The two positions are embedded in the project “MANUNKIND: Determinants and Dynamics of Collaborative Exploitation” headed by Dr. Dr. Hannes Rusch and supported by the European Research Council (ERC Starting Grant; see https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101040002). The project aims to develop a versatile game theoretic framework and corresponding new paradigms for behavioral experiments to advance the multidisciplinary study of exploitative behavior. The research in this project will help to inform policy makers on how to end modern-day slavery and other contemporary forms of exploitation – in line with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goal 8.
The doctoral researchers will be part of a newly established Independent Research Group led by Dr. Dr. Hannes Rusch. The group leverages its expertise in behavioral economic methodologies, especially formal modelling, experimental economics, and applied microeconomics, to study topics of interdisciplinary relevance, for example: discrimination, exploitation, violence, conflict, and the economic analysis of criminal and public law. This young and highly dedicated research team strives to conduct cutting-edge, theory-driven, and transparent research in compliance with the standards of Open Science.
Your Profile
For position 1 (‘theoretical focus’):
- you have completed (or are close to completing) your university degree (master’s or equivalent) in economics, econometrics, mathematics, or a related quantitative science;
- you have experience with game theory and/or dynamic modelling.
For position 2 (‘behavioral focus’):
- you have completed (or are close to completing) your university degree (master’s or equivalent) in behavioral economics, psychology, cognitive science, or a related field in the behavioral sciences;
- you have experience in conducting online surveys and experiments and in the respective methods of statistical analysis.
For both positions:
- experience with agent-based simulation modelling is a plus;
- you have a strong interest in behavioral economics and studying human decision-making using theory-based approaches;
- you are eager to further develop your statistical and methodological skills;
- you are an experienced user of R and/or Python;
- you have excellent written and spoken English language skills;
- you are a team player;
- you are committed to Open Science and transparent research practices.
Our Offer
Our Institute offers unrivalled conditions for doctoral studies, including access to top-notch laboratory facilities (including a fully equipped Virtual Reality lab), exceptional specialist libraries and databases, excellent workspaces, and comprehensive administrative and academic support. Collaboration with other doctoral researchers, postdocs, and international partners at the Institute is a key element of our research. Additionally, there are many opportunities for our researchers to participate in workshops, seminars, and conferences.
The doctoral positions are available from October 1, 2023. Based on mutual agreement, a somewhat later start date is also possible. The positions are limited to four years and they are fully funded research positions with no teaching obligations. The positions are full-time (currently 39 hours/week). Remuneration and social benefits are based on the German Civil Service Collective Agreement (TVöD Bund), pay category 13, 65% (see https://oeffentlicher-dienst.info/tvoed/bund/). The salary includes all mandatory social insurance contributions for health care, long-term care, unemployment, and retirement. The workplace is Freiburg im Breisgau (Germany). We are committed to ensuring a positive work-life balance and offer flexible work options, including remote work, as well as generous opportunities for personal and professional development, including free in-house German language courses.
The Max Planck Society is an equal opportunity employer and supports diversity in the workplace. Applications from disabled persons are welcome. We also aim to increase the percentage of female staff in fields in which they are underrepresented and therefore expressly encourage women to apply. Applications are particularly welcome from persons with backgrounds that have so far been underrepresented in science and research with regard to gender, age, professional and cultural background, family situation, sexual orientation, and nationality.
