Researcher (f/m/d) at the area “Basic Income Support and the Labour Market” at the IAB in Nürnberg

The research group analyses the relevance of individual and institutional determinants of social assistance receipt, the duration and the dynamics of benefit receipt. To evaluate the impact of the German tax-benefit system on individual labour supply decisions and the take-up of social assistance benefits, the research group employs a static microsimulation model (IAB-MSM). The analysis of restrictions and resources of welfare recipients and their households on labour market participation and welfare dependency is based on survey data as well as on register data. The research group is responsible for the register based research data “Sample of Integrated Welfare Biographies” (SIG). 

Tasks and activities 

• Labour market and occupational research using current methods
•  Planning and implementation of complex projects, concepts, models and methods in the research unit
•  Control and monitoring of research-relevant processes in the research unit 
• Analysing and publishing research and work results
•  Advising the relevant stakeholder groups 
• Optional: Initiation and management of (sub-)projects 
• Analysis and publication of research and work results, particularly on the effects of macroeconomic changes on income and well-being and the role of social policy measures

 Prerequisites

•  University degree; PhD or comparable qualification 
• Preferred specialisations: Economics, social sciences, statistics, data or computer science, mathematics 
• Relevant work experience or comparable profile 
• Sound knowledge of macroeconomic and labour market theories
•  In-depth knowledge of empirical research methods, especially time series econometrics 
• Good knowledge of statistical analysis software, e.g., R, EViews, Stata 
• Good knowledge of presentation and moderation techniques
•  Good knowledge of relevant MS Office applications English (knowledge level B2 according to CEFR) 
• German language proficiency is an advantage but not mandatory It doesn't have to be! 

Perfect match? It doesn't have to be! We are looking for motivated talent who want to develop. You can apply even if you do not meet all the criteria. What matters to us are your qualifications and strengths.

 Our offer

 As a researcher, you will work directly in the DFG funded project “WELLSIM: A life course microsimulation perspective on multi-dimensional well-being for five European countries”, starting in 2025. The vision of WELLSIM is to produce a step-change in the analysis of well-being and associated inequalities. An innovative life course approach will be adopted that accommodates multiple life domains and time scales, integrating insights from diverse disciplines, including economics, demography, psychology, public health, epidemiology and sociology.

 For further information on WELLSIM see:

 https://www.iser.essex.ac.uk/research/projects/wellsim-a-life-course-microsimulation-perspective-on-multi-dimensional-well-being-for-five-european-countries Your task in the national WELLSIM project is to investigate the effects of short-term negative employment shocks, for example as a result of a pandemic or a recession, as well as long-term changes on the labour market, for example in connection with climate change. The focus will be on the effects on income and well-being and the role of social policy measures.

 As a researcher you conduct research within the national and international interdisciplinary project team and produce research outputs for publication and presentation at international conferences. You will also disseminate research results through activities and collaborations beyond academia.

 You will help to develop a structural vector error correction model (SVECM), which is then linked to the dynamic microsimulation model SimPaths at the Institute for Social and Economic Research at the University of Essex. The structural shocks of the model are identified through cointegrating relationships and long-run restrictions grounded in economic theory. 

The position is a full-time position, limited until 28 February 2026. Part-time work is possible. It is possible to work part of the working time from home.The advertised position provides the opportunity to work in an experienced, internationally operating and highly motivated team across disciplinary and departmental boundaries. 

We also welcome candidates who are at an advanced stage of their doctoral studies. We are happy to support you in your further academic qualification (e.g. habilitation).

 Remuneration is in accordance with the statutory salary scale of the Federal Employment Agency and the associated benefits. The remuneration corresponds at least to TE II, Level 1 (currently approx. 4.700 € gross income for a full-time position).

 With a completed doctorate or with at least two peer-reviewed publications (with two co-authored publications corresponding to one single authored publication), remuneration amounts at least to TE I, Level 1 (currently 5.200 € gross income for a full-time position). 

In addition to the fixed monthly salary, other salary components may be paid, e.g. an annual bonus. In addition, we offer a company pension through the Versorgungsanstalt des Bundes und der Länder (VBL - Pension Institution of the Federal and State Governments) and the possibility of deferred compensation after a certain period of employment.

 Since 2009, IAB has been awarded the berufundfamilie audit certificate for its strategically designed family and life-phase-conscious HR policy. Our family-conscious human resources policy includes a variety of offers to promote the comparability of work and family / private life, such as flexible working hours or time off instead of overtime. The BA's family service also offers numerous support options. 

Further Benefits

•  Independent research, plurality of methods and freedom to publish, while respecting your own research interests
•  Access to extensive research data
•  Research with impact through a strong emphasis on policy advice 
• International networking within the scientific community 
• Mentoring programme for woman researchers Individualised training and development opportunities 
• Active health management  
• Offices close to public transport; parking spaces next to the building

Our values

As a member of the Charta der Vielfalt e.V., we welcome all applications - regardless of gender, nationality, ethnic and social origin, religion, ideology, disability, age, sexual orientation and identity.The IAB is committed to equal opportunities for men and women and therefore encourages women to apply. Applications from severely disabled persons and persons with equivalent status are expressly encouraged. We offer a barrier-free working environment in which you can optimally use your skills. Interested parties with a severe disability or equal status are welcome to contact the Special Needs Representative, Ms Doreen Makrinius-Hahn, (IAB.Schwerbehindertenvertretung@iab.de) in advance. 

How to Apply

Interested? Then apply online exclusively via our application assistant of the Federal Employment Agency. Klick on the button “Bewerben” on the announcement page, register and upload your documents. Please include a CV, a motivation letter, educational credentials, references, your most important publication or working papers. If your nationality is outside the EU, please also submit your residence permit.

 We look forward to your application!

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