The Institute of Philosophy at TU Darmstadt is inviting applications for a PhD position within the ERC Synergy Grant project “Cultures of the Cryosphere. Infrastructures, Politics and Futures of Artificial Cooling” (CultCryo). This four-year position (pay group E13 TV, 65%, all genders) offers the opportunity to conduct research at the intersection of philosophy, technology, and cultural studies. The application deadline is 18 October 2025.
About the Project
Launched in September 2024 and running until August 2030, CultCryo investigates the entanglement of modern life with artificial cold. It explores how refrigeration, freezing, and cryopreservation have shaped cryogenic cultures across food supply, biomedicine, climate control, and computing.
The project combines historical, geographical, linguistic, and ethnographic perspectives to develop a philosophical analysis of cryogenic cultures across conceptual, normative, and cultural dimensions.
The research consortium includes TU Darmstadt, the University of Paderborn, the University of Duisburg-Essen, and the Australian National University, alongside partner institutions in Hamburg, Halle-Wittenberg, and Frankfurt.
Key Responsibilities
Successful applicants will:
- Conduct philosophical research in one of the thematic areas:
- Conceptual history: Examining cultural concepts linked to preservation and vitality.
- Normativity: Addressing ethical, ecological, and biopolitical issues of global cold chains and cryobanks.
- Philosophy of technology: Analyzing how cooling technologies shape cryogenic cultures and social life.
- Present and publish findings through conferences, journal articles, and book chapters.
- Actively participate in project events, workshops, excursions, and research trips abroad.
- Contribute intellectually to ongoing discussions at the Institute.
This position also includes the opportunity to pursue a PhD thesis in philosophy, closely tied to the project’s themes. Independent research proposals relevant to the topic are also welcome.
Candidate Profile
Applicants should meet the following requirements:
- A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Philosophy or a related field with substantial philosophy coursework.
- Research interests in areas such as Philosophy of Technology, Ethics of Technology, Science and Technology Studies, Cultural Studies, Conceptual History, or Discourse Analysis.
- Excellent English language skills (C1); German is desirable or willingness to acquire it.
- Strong collaboration skills and readiness to travel for project-related activities.
Application Details
The position is funded at 65% working time, with doctoral dissertation research conducted alongside project responsibilities. The PhD thesis remains an independent qualification project with a strong philosophical profile.
The deadline for applications is 18 October 2025.
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