Research fellow (m/f/x) Relational Space Economy (100%)

Zeppelin Universität (ZU) in Friedrichshafen on the Lake of Constance is a state-recognized, private university with BA, MA and doctoral programs in the fields of business, culture and politics. It is committed to interdisciplinarity, internationality and individuality in research and teaching.

We are currently looking to fill the following position at the Leadership Excellence Institute Zeppelin I LEIZ  (100%, 40 hours per week, fixed-term contract until Dec. 2027) starting at the earliest convenience:

Research fellow (m/f/x) Relational Space Economy (100%) 

The Leadership Excellence Institute Zeppelin | LEIZ is a research, teaching and practice transfer institution of Zeppelin University. Its main topics relate to the work on the theory of Relational Economics. 

Your tasks

  • Your main task will be to further develop the innovative research agenda of relational economics and, in this context, to carry out a research project on the topic of the space economy (LEO Economy – Low, Earth and Orbit)
  • Your tasks will include the theoretical conception of the space economy from the perspective of relational economics and an empirical research project
  • The latter may include data collection, e.g., through interviews, surveys, etc., as well as data analysis
  • You will be expected to discuss the results of the research projects at conferences and publish them in leading journals and book publishers
  • You will work on an equal footing with the other research assistants at the Leadership Excellence Institute

Your profile

  • We expect you to have completed a master's degree or doctorate with above-average grades in the social sciences (economics, business administration, sociology, political science)
  • In addition, we expect you to be able to work independently, be a team player, and have a friendly and professional manner
  • The following qualities would also be desirable:
    o    Experience in designing and conducting research projects
    o    Experience with theoretical conceptualization and operationalization of constructs
    o    Publications and/or research project (including Master Thesis, PhD thesis) on the topic of space economy
    o    Familiarity with relational economics is preferred
    o    Excellent communication skills in German and English

What we offer

We offer a varied and challenging job in an innovative working and learning environment with currently more than 220 exceptional and dedicated colleagues as well as 700 students. 

Additional benefits: 

  • Access to and participation in an international research network
  • Flexible working hours for better work-life balance
  • Support for company pension plans
  • Participation in the company fitness program Wellpass
  • “Deutschlandticket” (train ticket valid everywhere in Germany) as job ticket, subsidized by the university
  • Nursery subsidies
  • JobRad (bicycle leasing program)
  • Corporate Benefits program
  • Company outings, Christmas parties, summer festivals

Zeppelin Universität is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants with disabilities will be given priority. Zeppelin Universität supports the compatibility of family and work and promotes gender equality.

Are you interested? Please send your detailed application documents to Ute Aisenpreis (HR Management) until 20 February 2026, including your earliest availability via the application management system softgarden (application link).

For any specific questions regarding the position, please contact Dr. Jessica Geraldo Schwengber (Institute Manager LEIZ) at jessica.schwengber@zu.de.