Research assistant (m/f/d) for futurology

To strengthen our team, we are looking for a committed and versatile person for a part-time position (80 %) with immediate effect. The position is initially limited to 12 to 18 months, with the aim of a permanent employment relationship. The remuneration is based on the TVöD Bund (EG 13).

Your job profile

As part of an interdisciplinary team, you will research social dimensions in the field of tension of socio-technological developments. Your main area of responsibility will initially include

• Futurology You support the development of future-orientated multidimensional scenarios and options for action with scientific diligence, creative vision and a sound methodological approach.
• Methods You will apply a broad spectrum of qualitative and quantitative methods of futurology with a focus on scenario development and Delphi surveys and further develop methodological designs.
• Transdisciplinary research and moderation You design and moderate participatory formats, including in large groups (workshops, expert panels, etc.) in a national and international context with stakeholders from science, politics, business and civil society.
• Acquisition of third-party funding: You will be actively involved in the acquisition of research projects, including the preparation of competitive applications for third-party funding.

Your personal profile

You have a Completed scientific university education (Master's/Diploma) with a clear focus on competences in futurology and bring at least five years of relevant Professional experience with.

Your professional competences

• Extensive experience in the application-orientated Futurology and empirical social research: Excellent knowledge of qualitative methods (development of future scenarios, Delphi surveys, impact analyses, expert interviews, etc.) as well as confident handling of quantitative methods to complement qualitative studies
• Experience in trend research and analysing social dynamics of the future
• Experienced Application of relevant tools for collaboration, visualisation and data analysis (e.g. GitLab, Miro/Lucid, R/Python, Tableau, Zotero/Citavi or similar)

Your personal and methodological competences

• A sure instinct for Future topics as well as a strong interest in the ethical, social and legal implications ( ELSI ) of new technologies.
• The ability to recognise the social impact of new technologies to critically scrutinise, reflect and communicate .
• High sensitivity to issues of social responsibility (RRI - Responsible Research and Innovation).
• Distinctive critical and networked thinking as well as excellent analytical skills connected with creative realisation competence .
• Extensive experience with transdisciplinary research processes .
• Stylistically confident formulation and the ability to understand complex scientific contexts understandable and convincing in a target group-specific manner.
• High level of expertise and commitment to interdisciplinary work a independent , proactive Working method, Ability to work in a team and a professional appearance .

Our offer

• Exciting and varied activities in an innovative, non-profit, non-university research organisation,
• A committed interdisciplinary team dedicated to the social dimensions of technological change with expertise and dedication,
• Appreciative work and feedback culture with diverse development and employment prospects,
• Working at attractive locations in Berlin and the possibility of mobile working,
• Reconciling work and family life through flexible working time models,
• 12 to 18-month contract term with the option of extension or cancellation,
• Performance-related remuneration in line with the TVöD Bund and benefits for the use of public transport.

Your application

If you are interested, we look forward to receiving your complete application documents (letter of motivation, CV in tabular form, certificates) by 7.10.2025 .