Researcher/Senior Researcher in Anthropological and Sociological Constitutionalism

Charles University in Prague, Faculty of Law, invites applications for a full-time or part-time position as Researcher/Senior Researcher in Anthropological and Sociological Constitutionalism, focusing on hermeneutics and field work in the MENA region (2+2 years, with the possibility of a tenure track), at the Institute for the Interregional Study of Constitutionalism (IISC).

Charles University is the leading university in Central Europe, boasting a nearly 700-year tradition and excellent international rankings, making it one of the most reputable and prestigious universities worldwide. The Faculty of Law, established in 1348 as one of the university’s four founding faculties, is now the largest accredited law faculty in the Czech Republic, with over 4,500 students.

We are seeking a candidate whose research will examine the constitutional conditions that enable constitutions to foster the discursive formation of political communities in the MENA region. The successful applicant will join a multidisciplinary research team studying constitutionalism as a foundation for collective identity and community.

The initial contract will be for two years. Upon a successful review, the candidate may receive a contract extension of up to two years, with a pathway to a permanent position.

Your Tasks 

1. Research and conduct fieldwork on the social imaginary and collective representations of constitutional authenticity and institutional adversariality in the MENA region.
2. Carry out research and field studies on the impact of constitutional discourses on collective identity and the citizens’ sense of community.
3. Engage in both observational and interview-based qualitative methodologies.
4. Collaborate closely with the research team on the conduct of the research.
5. Publish in leading academic journals.
6. Present your results at major academic conferences in the field and contribute to the work of the IISC including developing and submitting grant proposals. 

Your Profile 

1. A Ph.D. degree in Anthropological and Sociological Constitutionalism, Anthropological Philosophy, the Philosophy of Culture, or a Ph.D. in Anthropology, Sociology, or Philosophy.
2. Training in hermeneutics/phenomenology is an advantage.
3. Familiarity with theories of authenticity, cultural/religious values, collective identity, and community; acquaintance with conceptions of political institutions.
4. Expertise in anthropological and qualitative research methods.
5. Knowledge of Arabic and English is essential.
6. A solid track record of publications in peer-reviewed journals.
7. A team player with a high degree of autonomy.
8. Willingness to reside in Prague throughout the contract.
9. While not required, knowledge of Czech or a willingness to learn it would be considered an advantage. 

What We Offer

• A financially competitive salary (up to 2.300 EUR net for a full-time position, plus publication bonuses).
• Flexible working conditions.
• An opportunity to work in a dynamic, interdisciplinary research environment.
• Start date: September 2025 

How to Apply

The application deadline is May 12, 2025, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Please submit the following documents in a single PDF file:

• A cover letter.
• Your CV.
• A relevant publication.
• Names of two referees (the referees will only be contacted with the candidate’s agreement).

Applications should be emailed to Jana Malucha (maluchaj@prf.cuni.cz). Please contact Volker Kaul (kaulv@prf.cuni.cz) for any further inquiries.

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