Research Associate (m/f/d) for Technology Foresight

We are looking for a committed and versatile person to join our team with immediate effect for a part-time position (80 %). The position is initially limited to 12 to 18 years, a permanent employment relationship is sought. The remuneration is based on the TVöD Bund (EG 13).

Your job profile

You will actively shape a systematic process to identify disruptive or critical technologies and assess their potential impact as part of an interdisciplinary research and consulting project. Your main area of responsibility will initially include

• Technology ForesightYou will support the concept development and implementation of horizon scanning and technology foresight processes with scientific rigour, creative vision and a sound methodological approach.
• MethodsThey apply a broad spectrum of quantitative and quantitative methods of futurology and technology foresight and develop these methods in a critically reflective manner.
• Assessment and data science: They combine methods from statistics, computer science and content expertise to gain insights, patterns and predictions that serve as the basis for well-founded decisions and process optimisation.
• Transdisciplinary research and moderationYou design and moderate participatory formats, including in large groups (workshops, expert panels, etc.) in a national and international context with stakeholders from science, politics, business and civil society.
• Acquisition of third-party funding: You will be actively involved in the acquisition of research projects, including the preparation of competitive applications for third-party funding.

Your personal profile

You have a Completed scientific university education (Master/Diploma) in futurology, innovation research, social sciences, sociology of technology, political science or a comparable subject and bring At least three years of relevant professional experience in technology-orientated futurology and/or technology assessment.

Your professional competences

• Sound and application-orientated experience with innovative Methods of Technology foresight (technology scanning and scouting, horizon scanning, etc.).
• Pronounced Data LiteracySound knowledge of statistical methods, data science procedures and a holistic understanding of the structure and impact of complex information systems.
• Experienced Application of relevant tools for data analysis, visualisation and collaboration (e.g. R/Python, Tableau, Zotero/Citavi, GitLab, Miro/Lucid or similar).

Your personal and methodological competences

• A sure instinct for Future topics as well as a strong interest in the ethical, social and legal implications (ELSI) of new technologies.
• The ability to recognise the context of use and social impact of technologies to critically scrutinise, reflect and communicate.
• High sensitivity to issues of social responsibility (RRI - Responsible Research and Innovation).
• Distinctive critical and networked thinking as well as excellent analytical skills connected with creative realisation competence.
• Extensive experience with transdisciplinary research processes.
• Stylistically confident formulation and the ability, complex scientific contexts understandable and convincing in a target group-specific manner.
• High level of expertise and commitment to interdisciplinary worka independent, proactive Working method, Ability to work in a team and a professional appearance.

Our offer

• Exciting and varied activities in an innovative, non-profit, non-university research organisation,
• A committed interdisciplinary team dedicated to the social dimensions of technological change with expertise and dedication,
• Appreciative work and feedback culture with diverse development and employment prospects,
• Working at attractive locations in Berlin and the possibility of mobile working,
• Reconciling work and family life through flexible working time models,
• 12 to 18-month contract term with the option of extension or cancellation,
• Performance-related remuneration in line with the TVöD Bund and benefits for the use of public transport.

Your application

If you are interested, we look forward to receiving your complete application documents (letter of motivation, CV in tabular form, certificates) by 7.10.2025.

We strive for diversity and gender equality and welcome all applications, regardless of origin, gender, religion, age, sexual identity or disability.

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