We are looking for an excellent and research driven candidate (m/f/d) who is positioned to propose a research project that corresponds thematically and methodologically to the research theme of the department Borders.
Borders are a fundamental problem of contemporary life: there is a veritable boom in the building of walls and the fortification of borders around the world. Borders have never been static lines, but are mobile, disputed and invisible; they encompass the physical to the intellectual and cultural but mark the differences between our humanity and all that would seem to deny it or contradict it or aim to replace it. The project considers, on the one hand, the materiality of marking margins and borders with objects, sculptures, or by carving nature, and on the other hand the political and cognitive implications of the representation of borders on maps and paper, as well as recent bordering techniques which have broken away from the map. It also considers the historical and contemporary presence of visible and invisible borders within the context of cities, with areas or buildings inhabited by minorities or merchant nations, such as today’s quarters inhabited by foreign-born communities.
The Academic Assistant (f/m/d) will conduct his/her/their own research within the framework of the new department and of the project Borders. We expect the candidate to be open and capable of moving across disciplinary boundaries and to dialogue with experts in other fields, as well as with contemporary art historians and artists.
Alongside excellence in research, the candidate should demonstrate flexibility and readiness to take on responsibilities, commitment to pursuing new insights through original scholarship, international experiences, and capability of working in a group. Candidates must be fluent in English. Additional language skills (preferably active) may include knowledge of one or more of the following languages: Italian, Spanish, German, Portuguese.
Application Deadline
The deadline for application is September 30, 2026, 12 pm CET.
Starting Date
December 1, 2026. In justified cases, we may also consider later starting dates. The position is offered for one year, extendable up to three years.
Responsibilities
In addition to working on an independent research project, the selected candidate will contribute to the scientific activities and help with organizational tasks of the department of Professor de Divitiis.
The Academic Assistant will:
- collaborate in the coordination of the works of docs and postdocs working on the project;
- collaborate with guest scholars, also from other disciplines;
- contribute to the project’s output (publications, databases, digital and other media);
- plan and organize internal and external meetings, seminars, workshops, visits, trips, annual summer courses, exhibitions or other activities in collaboration with the Director.
This position is Florence-based. By the start of the appointment, candidates are expected to have taken up residence in Florence. The position may not be held concurrently with another employment or major fellowship award; applicants should not take on other obligations during their employment period. Candidates are expected to contribute actively to the intellectual life of the department and of the institute.
Salary
If the requirements are met, we offer remuneration in accordance with the collective agreement for the public service (TVöD Bund) with corresponding social benefits. If the TVöD is not applicable, adequate remuneration will be paid in accordance with Italian law.
Application
Applications are welcome in German, English, or Italian. To apply the candidate must upload the following documents:
- Cover letter that clearly states the candidate’s interest and potential contribution to the project,
- and describes his/her/their scientific and organizational skills.
- Description of PhD thesis, including contents (max. 1000 words; max. 4-5 pages).
- Description of proposed research project (max. 1000 words; max. 4-5 pages) with selected
- Curriculum vitae and list of publications.
- Name and contact information of at least two academic referees.
- One writing sample, e.g. draft of an article, publication, PhD thesis chapter.
Please find the application portal here.
The Max Planck Society is committed to fostering equal opportunities and diversity and welcomes applicants from all parts of society, regardless of gender, ethnicity, disabilities, or sexual orientation.
Contact: dirdedivitiis@khi.fi.it