The International Max Planck Research School on the Social and Political Constitution of the Economy (IMPRS-SPCE) is seeking applications for its next round of PhD recruitment. The IMPRS offers a unique international three-and-a-half-year doctoral program in the fields of economic sociology and political economy that is offered jointly by the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies (MPIfG), the University of Cologne’s Faculty of Management, Economics and Social Sciences, and the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Duisburg-Essen.
Located in the vibrant city of Cologne, the IMPRS-SPCE provides a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment for research-oriented doctoral students from around the world. Established in 2007 as the first program of its kind in the fields of economic sociology and political economy in Germany, it offers an unparalleled curriculum that includes intensive training in research design and methods of empirical research. Research at the IMPRS-SPCE focuses on the crucial intersection between the economy, politics, and society. Our doctoral students work with renowned faculty from some of Germany’s most prestigious research institutions and develop new approaches in economic sociology, comparative and international political economy. Students at the IMPRS-SPCE can complete part of their studies at one of our six partner universities in Denmark, France, Italy, or the United States, or another academic institution abroad. Our international exchange program gives junior researchers the opportunity to benefit from meeting and working with some of the most distinguished scholars in their fields.
With its unique curriculum of seminars, colloquia, international conferences and summer schools, and the opportunity to contribute actively to the intellectual life at the MPIfG and the two partner universities, the School creates an environment in which students operate at the highest academic level, can build essential professional skills, and make the best possible start to a successful research career. Graduates from the program have won prestigious awards such as the German Thesis Award and the Otto Hahn Medal. The IMPRS-SPCE prepares its graduates for careers in academia. While most alumni successfully pursue careers at universities, some also go on to work in the private sector, government, associations, and international organizations.
More detailed information about the program can be found in the information folder (PDF).
Applications can be made from mid-December this year to February 15, 2026. Further information on the application process is available on the website.