Application Guide

How to Apply for Research Assistant, Arms Control and New Technologies

at University of Hamburg, Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy

🏢 About University of Hamburg, Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy

The Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy (IFSH) at the University of Hamburg is a leading research center in Germany, uniquely focused on the intersection of peace, security, and emerging technologies. Working here offers the chance to contribute to impactful policy-relevant research in a collaborative academic environment with a strong international reputation.

About This Role

This role supports cutting-edge research on arms control and new military technologies, including data collection and analysis on European rearmament and dual-use tech. As a Research Assistant, you will directly contribute to projects that inform policy debates on security and peace, making your work both academically rigorous and practically relevant.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with scanning recent policy papers and news on European defense spending, followed by compiling data into spreadsheets for analysis. You could then summarize findings for a research report, attend a team meeting to discuss project progress, and spend the afternoon conducting a literature review on dual-use AI technologies. The role balances independent work with collaborative discussions, offering insight into how academic research informs security policy.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who University of Hamburg, Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy Is Looking For

  • A detail-oriented researcher with strong analytical skills, capable of synthesizing complex data on defense spending and technology investments.
  • Someone with a genuine interest in arms control, security policy, and emerging technologies, and familiarity with key concepts like dual-use technologies.
  • Proficient in English for reading and summarizing international sources; knowledge of German is a plus for accessing local policy documents.
  • A proactive team player who can work independently on literature reviews and data collection tasks while contributing to broader research projects.

📝 Tips for Applying to University of Hamburg, Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy

1

Tailor your CV to highlight any previous research experience in peace, security, or technology policy, even if from coursework or internships.

2

In your cover letter, mention specific IFSH projects or publications you have read to demonstrate genuine interest.

3

Emphasize quantitative skills (e.g., data analysis, Excel, or statistical software) as the role involves collecting defense spending data.

4

If you have experience with European defense or dual-use technologies, make it prominent in your application.

5

Proofread your application for accuracy, especially when referencing German institutions or policy terms.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Demonstrate your understanding of arms control challenges in the context of emerging technologies like AI or drones.', 'Highlight your ability to conduct thorough literature research and synthesize data from diverse sources.', 'Show enthusiasm for contributing to research that bridges academia and policy, specifically at IFSH.', "Mention any language skills (German) or regional expertise (Europe) that align with the institute's focus."]

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review IFSH's recent publications on arms control, especially those related to new military technologies or European defense.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the institute's research clusters and current projects listed on their website.
  • → Understand key policy debates in Germany and Europe on defense spending and dual-use technologies.
  • → Look into the profiles of the research group leaders to understand their focus areas.
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💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Your understanding of current arms control treaties and how new technologies challenge them.
2 How you would approach collecting and standardizing defense spending data across different countries.
3 Discussion of a recent article or report on European rearmament and its implications.
4 Your experience with research methods, particularly literature reviews and data analysis.
5 Why you are interested in working at IFSH specifically and how you see this role contributing to peace research.
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application that does not reference IFSH's specific research areas or the role's focus on technology.
  • Overlooking the need to demonstrate both research skills and interest in policy relevance; avoid being too theoretical.
  • Failing to provide concrete examples of data collection or analysis experience, even from academic projects.

📅 Application Timeline

⏰ Deadline: June 15, 2026

We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to University of Hamburg, Institute for Peace Research and Security Policy!

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