Our new research project Shaping Digital Culture in Public Administration funded by the Stiftung Mercator aims to explore how cultural change, leadership, and digital competences can accelerate digital transformation and strengthen German public administration. In order to strengthen the outreach and impact of the research, the project will collaborate with relevant actors from both public administration and civil society and link to the previous work of the Initiative für einen Handlungsfähigen Staat.

To support this three year research project in its initial phase, the Hertie School is looking for a highly motived Student Research Assistant with interest and experience in German public administration and Germany language fluency. The position is 10 hours/week and will start at the earliest on 1 February 2026 for a period of 6-12 months (with the possibility of an extension).

Your tasks

• Supporting the research through collection and analysis of relevant literature and research and contribute to case study research;
• Supporting the in research team in building the necessary structures/processes and liasing with the foundation and key partners;
• Support in organizing project workshops;
• Contribution to project reports and publications.

Your profile

• Interest in social science research, particularly at the intersection of digitalization, leadership, Human Ressource Management and public administration;
• First experiences in qualitative empirical research;
• Experiences of working in or with German public administration are a clear asset;
• German language skills are required;
• Currently enrolled at a university in Berlin in sociology, social sciences, statistics, economics or related.

We offer

• 20 days paid leave
• Flexible Working Hours
• Good Traffic Connections
• International and diverse work environment
• Mobile working possible
• Remuneration: € 15.00 hourly wage

Further information

To apply: Please send your complete application including a CV (max 2 pages) and cover letter via the button below. The deadline for applications is 31 January 2026 and we will consider applications on a rolling basis so we encourage you to apply early. Strict confidentiality is assured.

Please contact Gerhard Hammerschmid, Professor of Public & Financial Management, for further information about the position.

Hertie School gGmbH

Friedrichstraße 180
10117 Berlin
http://www.hertie-school.org