The Center for Adaptive Rationality directed by Ralph Hertwig at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development (Berlin) is seeking applicants for a position as Student Research Assistant to support our ongoing research project on transformative life decision making processes of “civic heroes” whom we define as those engaging, without formal obligation, in acts striving to improve society at a significant cost to themselves. The task is to search and analyse relevant public archival materials to identify the sequence of events corresponding with multiple decision points relating to a single heroic decision. In particular, we are seeking a candidate who is interested in exploring the intersection between individual decision making and the social context: For example, (1) a person who came forward with a sexual assault allegation against a public figure, and (2) a person who opposed an authoritarian regime. This position requires 50 hours of work per month and lasts for a minimum of 6 months. The position can be extended given mutual interest. The anticipated start date is February 1st 2025 or later. The remuneration without a Bachelor's degree is 12,41 €/h, in the Master's degree 14,33€/h.

• Enrolled in a Bachelor’s or Master’s program at a German university (sociology, gender studies, media and communication studies, political science, information science, cognitive science, psychology or related field).
• Strong personal motivation, commitment and ability to work independently
• Excellent English proficiency. German or other languages are a plus
• Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills
• Strong academic interest in decision-making processes
• Familiarity with qualitative and/or quantitative data analysis techniques

• The opportunity to join an international and interdisciplinary research group at the Center for Adaptive Rationality.
• The chance to work with a research team investigating transformative decision making processes and potentially write a Bachelor's or Master's thesis on the topic.

Please send your application by 29 November 2024 electronically to Mika Toyota (toyota@mpib-berlin.mpg.de) using the subject line “RA for HDM at ARC”. Your application should include the following documents in a single PDF document:

(1) A short motivation letter, outlining your research interest and why you think you are suitable for this position
(2) A copy of your Curriculum Vitae without a photo
(3) A copy of relevant school/university certificates
(4) If available, evidence of academic achievement

The Max Planck Society strives for gender and diversity equality. We welcome applications from all backgrounds. The Max Planck Society is further committed to increasing the number of individuals with disabilities in its workforce and therefore encourages applications from such individuals.