PhD in Higher Education Innovations (m/f/d) at Constructor… · Bremen

Constructor University (formerly Jacobs University) is a private, state-accredited, English-language university in Bremen. We offer Bachelor, Master, and PhD programs in three schools: School of Science, School of Computer Science and Engineering, and School of Business, Social and Decision Sciences. Our principles are first-class teaching and research, international diversity, and transdisciplinary cooperation. According to the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings, Constructor University is among the top 25 percent out of more than 1900 universities worldwide and is ranked as the second most international university in the world. As an international university, we attract highly talented and open-minded students from all over the world. Currently, over 1,600 students from 110 nations live and study on our residential campus.

Constructor University Bremen gGmbH and Constructor Knowledge Lab invite applications for PhD positions in Information Systems and Management Studies. The position will be supervised by Professor Isak Frumin.

This position focuses on understanding how universities worldwide are developing and implementing innovative institutional models, governance structures, and teaching practices in response to global social, technological, and economic changes. It offers the opportunity to engage in comparative research, join an international expert community, and contribute to publications and knowledge-exchange projects on institutional innovation and strategic management in higher education.

Research focus may include topics such as:

• Emerging models of innovative universities and their governance forms.
• Institutional reform, interdisciplinarity, and new models of research collaboration.
• Strategies for university transformation in knowledge-intensive and technology-driven environments.
• International comparisons of higher education innovations and their diffusion patterns.
• Knowledge management and organizational learning in research and education institutions.
• Emerging global trends in university-industry collaboration and digital ecosystems.

The project combines organizational theory, information systems, and higher education studies, allowing the candidate to address both theoretical and applied dimensions of institutional innovation.

Mandatory requirements:

• Master’s degree (or equivalent) in information systems, management, economics, sociology, political science, or higher education studies.
• Strong analytical and academic writing skills in English (demonstrated through thesis or publications).
• Demonstrated interest in organizational transformation, technology adoption, or data analytics in education or research contexts.
• Research experience using qualitative, quantitative, or mixed methods.

Preferred qualifications:

• Practical or academic background in data-driven analysis, management science, or organizational research.
• Some proficiency in German (speaking or writing) is desirable but not mandatory.

Funding & Appointment Terms

This is a self-funded PhD position. Constructor University subsidizes administrative fees for accepted candidates and provides access to its research infrastructure, office space, and supervision network. In addition, Constructor University Bremen gGmbH actively supports candidates in preparing applications for external funding — for example, doctoral scholarships, foundations, or international mobility grants, and can provide institutional support and references for such applications.

Application Details

Starting date: Fall 2026.

Required documents:

• Cover letter (1–2 pages) explaining your motivation, research interests, and fit with the project.
• CV (including publications or research projects).
• Master’s degree certificate and transcripts.
• Contact information for 2–3 possible academic referees.
• English proficiency certificate (if applicable).
• Optional: sample of research writing (e.g., thesis or publication).

Incomplete applications will not be considered. The review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews.