2 PhD Positions, Ruhr-University of Bochum

Bochum, 01.09.2024–30.08.2028

Application deadline: 10.06.2024

Christine Beese

2 PhD Research Positions “Spaces of visualisation – topographies of knowledge. Early modern anatomical theatres between art, nature and science”.

Applications are welcomed for two positions (PhD candidates) to become part of the research team of the Emmy Noether group “Spaces of visualisation – topographies of knowledge. Early modern anatomical theatres in art, nature and science” at the Ruhr-University of Bochum. The project is led by Jun.-Prof. Christine Beese at the Institute of Art History and is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG).

The project examines the role of anatomical theatres as built spaces in the formation of science as an independent realm and in the implementation of epistemological shifts in the early modern period.

As spaces that crossed the borders between art, technology and science, and between sensual experience and rational examination, anatomical theatres are designed to reflect the negotiation and formation of scientific beliefs. As a building type that was established across various nations, they are particularly suitable for analysing the role of architecture in the visualization and implementation of science as a tangible entity with specific patterns of form, action and interpretation.

With the aim of creating a transnational and entangled history that questions narratives based on “central“ and “peripheral“ places in science, the project focuses on around twenty well-known and lesser-known anatomical theatres in Europe and Latin America. It emphasizes the local impact of the buildings and examines their material presence as a decisive factor in the formation and implementation of specific images of humanity and society, as well as in a European concept of science as a universal model for explaining and ordering the world.

Enquiries should be directed to the PI, Christine Beese:

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1) Research Position: „Anatomical theatres in the Low Countries“.

Job description:

The candidate will be in charge of the architectural-historical investigation of anatomical Theatres built in the Low Countries between the 16th and the 19th century.

Starting date is 1 September 2024.

Tasks:

  • The task of the doctoral student will be to write eight case studies documenting the state of research, the history of construction and the historical context of Dutch anatomical theatres. These case studies will be successively published online and serve as a working basis for all project members.
  • In the first two years, the candidate will undertake two extensive archive and sightseeing trips to the Low Countries. In the third and fourth years, the candidate will present preliminary results at conferences and write up the doctoral thesis. The candidate is expected to write a PhD thesis in the wider field of the research position.
  • The candidate is required to collaborate with all group members, to attend regular meetings and to co-organize conferences and research meetings.

Profile:

  • Master degree
  • Preference will be given to graduates of the history of art or architecture with a proven background in the architectural history/visual culture of the Low Countries as well as some experience of working with archival sources.
  • Very good language skills in German, Dutch and English are required.

What we offer:

  • an empowering and lively environment.
  • wide range of training possibilities.
  • funded research trips and PhD-publication.
  • 4-year contracts.
  • a part-time position (65%) based on the pay group 13 TV-L (NRW) (up to 45.600 Euro per year).

How to apply:

Please send your application, quoting the job advert ANR 3275, to:

Applications can be made in either English or German.

The deadline is 10 June 2024.

The following material should be sent in a single PDF document:

1) A two-page letter of motivation. This letter should detail what skills and prior experience qualify you for the position. Outline a possible doctoral project within the general topic of the research position.

2) A CV.

3) A writing sample (for example an article or a comprehensive chapter of your MA thesis).

4) The name, email address and telephone number of at least two referees (do not send recommendation letters).

5) The certificate of your Masters degree.

Online interviews will take place at the end of June 2024.

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2) Research position: “Anatomical theatres in Iberia and Ibero-America.“

Job description:

The candidate will be in charge of the architectural-historical investigation of anatomical Theatres built in Iberia and Ibero-America between the 16th and the 19th century.

Starting date is 1 September 2024.

Tasks:

  • The task of the doctoral student will be to write eight case studies documenting the state of research, the history of construction and the historical context of Iberian and Ibero-American anatomical theatres. These case studies will be successively published online and serve as a working basis for all project members.
  • In the first two years, the candidate will undertake two extensive archive and sightseeing trips to Iberia and Ibero-America. In the third and fourth years, the candidate will present preliminary results at conferences and write up the doctoral thesis. The candidate is expected to write a PhD thesis in the wider field of the research position.
  • The candidate is required to collaborate with all group members, to attend regular meetings and to co-organize conferences and research meetings.

Profile:

  • Master degree
  • Preference will be given to graduates of the history of art or architecture with a proven background in the architectural history/visual culture of Iberia as well as some experience of working with archival sources.
  • Very good language skills in German, Spanish/Portuguese and English are required.

What we offer:

  • an empowering and lively environment.
  • wide range of training possibilities.
  • funded research trips and PhD-publication.
  • 4-year contracts.
  • a part-time position (65%) based on the pay group 13 TV-L (NRW) (up to 45.600 Euro per year).

How to apply:

Please send your application, quoting the job advert ANR 3276, to:

Applications can be made in either English or German.

The deadline is 10 June 2024.

The following material should be sent in a single PDF document:

1) A two-page letter of motivation. This letter should detail what skills and prior experience qualify you for the position. Outline a possible doctoral project within the general topic of the research position.

2) A CV.

3) A writing sample (for example an article or a comprehensive chapter of your MA thesis).

4) The name, email address and telephone number of at least two referees (do not send recommendation letters).

5) The certificate of your Masters degree.

Online interviews will take place at the end of June 2024.

https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/c4388d7f7eb1bd2380422cb2b297f90aec0f79f10?ref=homepage

https://jobs.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/jobposting/5d5f4174e98e9567930c481d17832880d08c82500?ref=homepage