Faculty of Arts and Humanities
Doctoral Position (f/m/x) – History of Computing in Latin America
ERC Consolidator Grant “WIRED“| Department of History | Professor Gerstenberger
We are one of the largest and oldest universities in Europe and one of the most important employers in our region. Our broad range of subjects, the dynamic development of our main research areas and our central location in Cologne make us attractive for students and researchers from around the world. We offer a wide range of career opportunities in science, technology, and administration.
The ERC-funded project “Wired History. Computers, Humans, and the Making of Latin American Futures, 1950s–2000s” [WIRED], led by Professor Dr Debora Gerstenberger in the Department of History, investigates how people and digital technologies have shaped future-oriented projects and institutions in Latin America since the mid-20th century. Combining approaches from the history of computing, Science and Technology Studies (STS), and social, political, economic, and cultural history, the project explores diverse practices of future-making and their material and social impacts.
We invite applications for a Doctoral Researcher to study the history of large-scale investments in computer chip manufacturing facilities in Latin America, with a particular focus on Costa Rica, during the 1980s and 1990s. The position is part of a collaborative research environment and entails close cooperation with the Principal Investigator, a postdoctoral researcher, a project manager, and another doctoral researcher.
YOUR TASKS
- Conduct independent research on the history of large-scale investments in computer chip manufacturing facilities in Latin America, with a particular focus on Costa Rica, during the 1980s and 1990s.
- Complete a monograph based on this research
- Contribute at least one chapter to a co-authored project monograph jointly developed by all four researchers on the team
- Carry out archival research at relevant institutions and locations in Costa Rica and internationally
- Actively participate in research group activities (e.g. reading groups, workshops, and joint publications)
- Present research at international conferences and workshops
- Publish articles in peer-reviewed journals
- Contribute to the organization of project activities (e.g. workshops, guest visits, website maintenance, and social media)
YOUR PROFILE
- MA in History or a closely related discipline (e.g. Social/Cultural Anthropology, Cultural Studies, Media Studies)
- MA dissertation with excellent marks and demonstrated research potential
- Expertise in or strong interest in archival research
- Expertise in or strong interest in the history of computing, history of technology, Science and Technology Studies (STS), and/ or Latin American history
- Excellent proficiency in English and Spanish; willingness to learn German is an advantage
- Willingness to undertake extended research stays in Costa Rica
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in an international research team
WE OFFER
- Excellent research conditions within a dynamic and innovative team
- A diverse working environment with equal opportunities
- Support in balancing work and family life
- Extensive advanced training opportunities
- Occupational health management offers
- Flexible working time models
The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity. Women will be considered preferentially in accordance with the Equal Opportunities Act of North Rhine-Westphalia (Landesgleichstellungsgesetz – LGG NRW). We also expressly welcome applications from all suitable candidates regardless of their gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.
The position is available from 15 February 2027 on a part-time basis (25,89 hours per week). The doctoral position is to be filled for a fixed term until 14 February 2031. If the applicant meets the relevant wage requirements and personal qualifications, the salary is based on remuneration group 13 TV-L of the pay scale for the German public sector.
Please apply online with proof of the required qualifications and include a cover letter explaining your motivation and suitability to participate in the research group, as well as a CV, a writing sample (MA thesis or recent article), a list of publications (if applicable) and copies of certificates without a photo under: https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de.
Please also provide the names of two referees who can be contacted via email or telephone.
The reference number is Wiss2609-09. The application deadline is 04 November 2026. Interviews will take place in November or December 2026.
For further inquiries, please contact Professor Dr Debora Gerstenberger (debora.gerstenberger@uni-koeln.de) and take a look at our FAQs.
