The German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) conducts high-quality research, offers independent policy advice, and facilitates transregional knowledge cooperation and training at the intersection of “development” and “sustainability”, with the aspiration to co-shape a collaborative multipolar world for sustainable futures.
To strengthen our project “China’s attractiveness in the Global South”, we are looking as of 1 November 2026 (until 30 October 2027, with the option to extend the contract beyond that date) for a
student / research assistant
Tasks:
- Conducting research under the guidance of the project lead
- Supporting the organization of project-related activities, such as workshops and research trips
- Engaging with research topics, project processes, and interim results
- Supporting other academic and administrative tasks as needed
What we are looking for:
- Knowledge of international relations and development politics, as well as an interest in the global role of the People’s Republic of China
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel
- Very good command of English and good command of German; knowledge of Chinese and/or Portuguese is welcome but not required
- An independent, proactive, and committed approach to work
- Applicants must be currently enrolled at a university and have completed at least two years of their studies
What we offer:
- An interesting position in an international working environment
- The opportunity to become part of a team and gain insights into academic research
- Standard remuneration for student or research assistants (14.00 Euros/hour for a student assistant enrolled in a Bachelor's programme or 15.00 Euros/hour for a research assistant enrolled in a Master's programme)
- Flexible working hours by arrangement (40 hours per month)
The project “China’s attractiveness in the Global South" (CAGS) at IDOS is led by Dr Sebastian Haug and implemented in cooperation with Prof Sabrina Habich-Sobiegalla from Freie Universität Berlin. The project focuses on how the People’s Republic of China incorporates its own domestic development experiences into its international cooperation. It also examines how strategically relevant partner countries - particularly Brazil, Indonesia, and South Africa - perceive and assess these experiences as well as their cooperation with China. CAGS is funded by the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR).
Please send your application (including a CV and a motivation letter) as well as a current certificate of university enrolment by Thursday 24 September 2026 to Mr Mark Theisen (mark.theisen@idos-research.de).
German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS)
Tulpenfeld 6, 53113 Bonn
Phone +49 (0)228 94927-0, Telefax +49 (0)228 94927-130
idos@idos-research.de www.idos-research.de BlueSky LinkedIn