The German Research Foundation (DFG) Research Training Group “Organizing Architectures” (RTG 3022) has announced doctoral research positions in Germany for 2026. The program is a collaboration between leading German institutions including Goethe University Frankfurt, Technical University of Darmstadt, University of Kassel, and the Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory.
These positions provide an excellent opportunity for international and domestic students to pursue a fully funded PhD in interdisciplinary research fields related to architecture, society, and institutions.
Successful applicants will work as Research Assistants (75% part-time) and complete their doctoral research within a collaborative research environment.
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Program Overview Germany PhD
- Program: Doctoral Positions – Research Training Group “Organizing Architectures”
- Funding Organization: German Research Foundation (DFG)
- Host Universities:
- Goethe University Frankfurt
- Technical University of Darmstadt
- University of Kassel
- Additional Partner: Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory
- Position Type: Research Assistant (Doctoral Student)
- Employment Level: 75% Part-time
- Contract Duration: 3 years (extendable by 1 year)
- Start Date: 1 November 2026
- Application Deadline: 7 April 2026
Number of Positions for Germany PhD
A total of 12 doctoral positions are available across the partner institutions:
- 6 positions: Goethe University Frankfurt
- 4 positions: Technical University of Darmstadt
- 1 position: University of Kassel
- 1 position: Max Planck Institute for Legal History and Legal Theory (separate advertisement)
Salary and Benefits for Germany PhD
The doctoral researchers will be employed under the German public sector salary scale:
- Salary Grade: E13
- Employment Type: 75% research position
- Contract Length: 3 years (possible extension to 4 years)
Salary conditions follow the collective agreements of the respective universities:
- TV-G-U (Goethe University Frankfurt)
- TV-TU Darmstadt
- TV-H (University of Kassel)
Research Focus in Germany
The Research Training Group “Organizing Architectures” explores how architecture contributes to shaping modern societies through:
- Institutions
- Networks
- Discourses
The program assumes that social structures and architectural systems evolve together through complex negotiation processes within society.
Doctoral candidates will explore interdisciplinary questions related to how architecture and social systems interact and evolve.
Fields of Study
Applicants from the following academic fields are encouraged to apply:
- Architecture and Architectural Theory
- Art History
- Media Studies
- History
- Law
- Sociology
- Human Geography
- Political Science
- Urban Planning
Interdisciplinary research projects combining multiple fields are strongly encouraged.
Eligibility Criteria for Germany PhD
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
Academic Qualification
- A Master’s degree, Diploma, or equivalent qualification
- Degree must be in a relevant discipline related to the research group
Academic Performance
- Above-average academic record
Additional Requirements
Candidates should demonstrate:
- Interest in the research themes of institutions, networks, and discourses
- Ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment
- Teamwork and collaboration skills
- Good knowledge of German or English
- Willingness to learn the other language if necessary
Application Documents for Germany PhD
Applicants must submit their applications in English or German via the official application portal.
Required documents include:
1. Motivation Letter
A cover letter explaining:
- Motivation for pursuing a PhD in the research training group
- Preferred discipline within the program
2. Curriculum Vitae
The CV should include:
- Academic background
- Language skills
- Academic achievements
- Scanned academic certificates
3. Research Proposal
Applicants must submit an anonymized research exposé including:
- Maximum 3 pages
- Bibliography
- Clear explanation of the proposed doctoral research
- Preferred supervisor from the research group
Selection Process
The recruitment process will include:
- Evaluation of applications
- Selection interviews
Interview Dates
1–3 June 2026
The final placement will determine the candidate’s workplace at one of the partner institutions.
Information Session
The research training group will host an online information event for interested applicants.
Date: 24 March 2026
Time: 6:00 PM
During the event, applicants will learn about:
- The research concept
- The doctoral program structure
- Future collaboration and research methods
Participation is open and no registration is required.
Diversity and Equal Opportunity
The program strongly supports diversity and inclusion.
Applications are welcomed from candidates regardless of:
- Nationality
- Gender
- Ethnic or social background
- Religion or age
Women are especially encouraged to apply. Candidates with disabilities will receive priority consideration if qualifications are equal.
Working Environment
Due to the collaborative nature of the research group, doctoral students are expected to:
- Be regularly present at their workplace (Frankfurt, Darmstadt, or Kassel)
- Participate actively in the qualification and study program
- Engage in interdisciplinary teamwork and discussions
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted only through the official portal:
Application Portal:
https://www.career.tu-darmstadt.de/tu-darmstadt/job/53994
Application Deadline
7 April 2026
Contact Information
For further inquiries, applicants may contact the research training group coordinator:
Friederike Weidner
Email: f.weidner@kunst.uni-frankfurt.de
Conclusion
The DFG Research Training Group “Organizing Architectures” offers an outstanding opportunity for students interested in interdisciplinary doctoral research in Germany. By bringing together architecture, social sciences, and humanities, the program aims to explore how built environments shape social institutions and networks.
Students passionate about architecture, society, and interdisciplinary research should consider applying before the 7 April 2026 deadline.
Helen Oesha holds a Doctorate in Entrepreneurship and is a dedicated advocate for youth empowerment through education. Since 2021, she has been guiding students toward scholarships and international opportunities, making higher education more accessible worldwide. Oesha platform is widely regarded as a leading source for discovering global opportunities. Having personally experienced the challenges and success of funded doctoral studies, she is passionate about bridging the gap between ambition and access, helping students realize their dreams and reach their highest potential.