Job Postings

Job Posting

The Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) is one of the largest, most research-intensive, and internationally oriented universities in Germany. At the Faculty of Business, Economics and Society, within the Communication Science research group (Prof. Dr. Adrian Meier), the following position is available starting October 1, 2025: Research Associate/PhD Student (75%) (m/f/d – Pay Grade E13 TV-L)

This is a fixed-term position for four years with the goal of further academic qualification (typically a PhD). An extension for up to two more years is anticipated. The position is part-time (75%) with remuneration according to pay grade E13 TV-L. The Communication Science research group provides office space in Nuremberg (Findelgasse 7/9), though the position allows for up to two days of remote work (e.g., from home) per week.

The Communication Science research group at FAU investigates the positive and negative effects of digital communication and media on users’ well-being, health, and self-regulation. Our research focuses on communication and media psychology theories as well as quantitative empirical methods. Current questions address topics such as the influence of social media on mental health, possible approaches to effective regulation of social media, how to increase social connectedness and cohesion through interpersonal and digital communication in the workplace, and the dynamics of human-AI communication. More detailed information on the research foci of the professorship can be found here.

Responsibilities:

  • Independent research with a connection to the broader topics of the professorship (e.g., coordinating and conducting data collections, data analysis, supervising research assistants)
  • Presentation of research results at conferences, workshops, and via science communication formats (e.g., events, social media)
  • Writing manuscripts and publishing in leading journals in communication science, (media) psychology, and/or related social sciences
  • Academic qualification (doctoral dissertation)
  • Teaching communication science and/or media psychology in seminars and tutorials, as well as supervising student theses
  • Collaboration within the Communication Science research group at the Faculty of Business, Economics and Society at FAU

Required Qualifications:

  • Excellent degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Communication Science, Psychology, or a related empirical social/behavioral science
  • (Very) good knowledge of quantitative-empirical and statistical methods
  • Strong analytical skills
  • Excellent command of English (spoken and written)
  • Independence and teamwork skills
  • Strong interest in topics related to digital communication, human-AI communication, media psychology, media effects, digital methods, mental health, or the future of work

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Familiarity with a data analysis programming language (e.g., R, Python) and advanced statistical methods (e.g., multilevel modeling, SEM, machine learning) is beneficial but not required. Support for acquiring such skills (e.g., through workshops) will be provided if needed.
  • Initial experience with scientific presentations or publications is advantageous but not required.
  • German language skills are advantageous but not mandatory.

Benefits:

  • Excellent academic environment at a research-intensive university and group
  • Collegial atmosphere in a young team and interdisciplinary department
  • Opportunities for independent research and academic development
  • Dedicated mentoring of PhD students
  • International exchange and research collaborations
  • Workplace in the heart of Nuremberg’s historic old town
  • Remote work option (up to 2 days/week) and high flexibility

FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg values diversity and has been a member of the Best Practice Club “Family in Higher Education” since 2016. The university promotes the equality of women and explicitly encourages women to apply. The position is suitable for individuals with disabilities, who will be given preference in hiring in cases of equal qualifications.

You are warmly invited to submit your application (cover letter, CV with academic background, certificates; if applicable: relevant professional experience, list of first presentations or publications, thesis or initial manuscript/publication as a sample work) in German or English language by July 13, 2025, as a single PDF via email to wiso-bewerbung-kowi@fau.de. Flexibility (+/- 2 months) regarding the start date is possible; feel free to contact us.

For inquiries, please contact Prof. Dr. Adrian Meier (adrian.meier@fau.de).