Researcher in the DFG-project: “Countering polarization: The Borda count as a basis for proportional representation”

Researcher in the DFG-project: “Countering polarization: The Borda count as a basis for proportional representation” (salary scale 13 TV-L, 75 %) Nestled in a modern city surrounded by nature and with an exceptional standard of living, Leibniz University Hannover offers excellent working conditions in a vibrant scientific community. The Institute of Political Science welcomes applications for the following position starting March 1, 2026: Researcher in the DFG-project: “Countering polarization: The Borda count as a basis for proportional representation” (salary scale 13 TV-L, 75 %) The position is for a duration of 36 months. Your role The position is part of the DFG project “Countering Polarization: The Borda System as a Basis for Proportional Representation” led by Assistant Professor Anna-Sophie Kurella. The project investigates a new approach to proportional electoral systems based on the Borda system, which takes voters’ full preference orderings into account rather than only first-choice votes. It examines the extent to which such a system can reduce party-system polarization while still ensuring effective representation of interests. Responsibilities include supporting the project’s research activities, in particular preparing, conducting, and analyzing surveys and decision-theoretic laboratory experiments on voting behavior and competition under variants of a Borda-based electoral system. You will also contribute to project publications and present findings at national and international conferences. Who are we looking for? The successful candidate must hold a completed university degree in political science, economics, or a neighboring discipline. In addition, we expect the following qualifications: Experience with quantitative methods in political science as well as with the R programming language Willingness to learn new software for programming surveys and laboratory experiments Willingness to engage with new topics in game theory and social choice theory Interest in electoral systems, political competition, and experiments Good command of English A planned or already advanced PhD project in the field of electoral research is desired and will be supported. Equal opportunities and diversity are core values at Leibniz University Hannover. Our goal is to tap into individual potential and open up possibilities. We therefore welcome applications from anyone interested in the position, irrespective of gender, nationality, ethnic origin, religion or ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity. We strive towards a balanced and diverse workforce and a reduction in under-representation in accordance with the Lower Saxony Equal Rights Act (Niedersächsisches Gleichberechtigungsgesetz – NGG). We therefore also welcome applications from women for the above-mentioned position. Preference will be given to equally-qualified candidates with disabilities. Why join us? With more than 5.000 employees, Leibniz University Hannover is one of the largest and most attractive employers in the Hannover region. We offer a vibrant interdisciplinary and international working environment, and promote personal and professional development ranging from subject-related skills to leadership and languages. Part-time employment as well as remote work (mobile work, work from home) can be arranged upon request. We support employees with balancing work and family life, through services such as back-up childcare, childcare during school holidays, and parent-child offices, as well as providing individual advice regarding family responsibilities and caring for dependants. To promote health and well-being among employees, we offer an extensive sports programme with over 100 different sports, as well as a fitness centre with a sauna and climbing space. Health management measures, such as courses on stress management, good nutrition and relaxation, aim to ensure a healthy workplace. Additional information