PhD Stipend (m/f/d) — Private Higher Education in Europe

Constructor University (formerly Jacobs University) is a private, state-accredited, English-language university in Bremen. We offer Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs in three schools: School of Science, School of Computer Science and Engineering, and School of Business, Social and Decision Sciences. Our principles are first-class teaching and research, international diversity, and transdisciplinary cooperation. According to the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Constructor University is among the top 25 percent out of more than 1900 universities worldwide and is ranked as the second most international university in the world. As an international university, we attract highly talented and open-minded students from all over the world. Currently, over 1,600 students from 110 nations live and study on our residential campus.

Constructor University Bremen invites applications for a - PhD project in Political or Business Science (Starting date: June 2026) . The position will be supervised by Professor Isak Frumin.

The successful candidate will be embedded in a project to monitor the development of private higher education in Europe and to produce the annual reports.  

The project offers the opportunity to engage in high-impact comparative research, join an international expert network including leading scholars, and contribute directly to publications that shape policy and institutional strategy across Europe. 

Research focus may include aspects such as: 

• Evolution of private higher education systems in Europe: enrollment trends, institutional morphology, and market shares

• Role of private institutions in massification, internationalization, and access to higher education 

• How do digital transformation and new delivery models influence the private HE sector?

Your Profile:

Mandatory requirements

• Master's degree (or equivalent) in higher education studies, political science, economics, sociology, public policy, or a related field 

• Strong analytical and academic writing skills in English (demonstrated through thesis or publications) 

• Demonstrated interest in comparative higher education, education policy, or institutional analysis 

• Research experience using qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods 

• Ability to work independently and deliver within structured deadlines 
   

Preferred qualifications

• Experience in data collection, visualization, or report writing for academic or policy audiences 

• Some proficiency in German (speaking or writing) is desirable but not mandatory 

• Applications from PhD students currently based in Germany are particularly encouraged 

Funding Terms:

• The project is funded by a monthly tax-free stipend of €1,650 in accordance with German regulations, with the possibility of an additional research cost allowance and a health insurance subsidy 

• Constructor University Bremen actively supports candidates in preparing applications for external funding — doctoral scholarships, foundations, or international mobility grants — and can provide institutional support and references

What you can expect at Constructor University:

Constructor University consistently achieves top results in national and international university rankings.

In the CHE Ranking, the most comprehensive and detailed ranking of the German-speaking higher education landscape, Constructor University has achieved top placements every year since its first participation in 2005.

• The result counts: trust working hours for work-life balance

• Individual on-boarding, career- and development planning

• Company fitness program offers with EGYM Well Pass (former Qualitrain)

• Green campus with recreation areas, take the tour: Our Campus

• Constructor University has extensive programs on sustainability and environmental sustainability

Constructor University unequivocally guarantees the academic freedom of every member of the faculty, as well as every other member of the Constructor University community. We encourage diversity in the University in ethnic, cultural, social, religious, political, and national backgrounds, as well as in individual lifestyle. Constructor University offers full equality of opportunity to all qualified applicants and is an equal opportunity employer.

Your Application:

Required documents

• Cover letter (1–2 pages) explaining your motivation, research interests, and fit with the project 

• CV (including publications or research projects) 

• Master's degree certificate and transcripts 

• Contact information for 2–3 possible academic referees 

• English proficiency certificate (if applicable) 

• Optional: sample of research writing (e.g., thesis, policy report, or publication) 

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Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. Starting date: June 2026 

Apply today – it’s simple and straightforward. We look forward to getting to know you.