Research Assistant (PhD Candidate) / Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) at the Center for Digital Transformation

Research Assistant (PhD Candidate) / Postdoctoral Researcher (m/f/d) – Supply Chain Finance and Supply Chain Resilience

TUM School of Management, TUM Campus Heilbronn, Center for Digital Transformation (Pay grade TV-L E13, 100%)

We seek a research assistant (PhD candidate) or postdoctoral researcher in Supply Chain Finance and Supply Chain Resilience at the TUM Campus Heilbronn, starting at the earliest possible date. Applications from female scholars are particularly encouraged.

The candidate will join the research group of Prof. Dr. David Wuttke and contribute to foundational and interdisciplinary research in supply chain finance and resilience.

Contract Details

• For candidates without a doctoral degree: Fixed-term position for 3 years with the possibility of extension; opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree under close supervision.
• For candidates with a doctoral degree: Fixed-term position for 2 years with the possibility of extension; opportunity to develop an independent research agenda and academic profile.
• The position includes teaching responsibilities and support for competitive grant applications.

Research Focus

You will use game theory and rigorous analytical modeling to address foundational questions in supply chain finance, with connections to resilience and sustainability. The goal is publication in leading academic journals.

Our team publishes in top-tier journals such as:

• Manufacturing & Service Operations Management
• Production and Operations Management
• Journal of Operations Management

Doctoral candidates receive structured, one-on-one supervision—from initial research ideas to preparation for the academic job market. Graduates pursue careers at leading international institutions.

We are part of the Center for Digital Transformation, a hub connecting over 20 doctoral researchers and 5 professors in supply chain, operations, and finance. The position is based at the TUM School of Management on the TUM Campus Heilbronn, an integral part of the Technical University of Munich (TUM), ranked among Europe’s top universities.

Tasks & Responsibilities

• Conduct high-impact research projects for publication in top-tier international journals
• Present findings at international conferences
• Teach courses and supervise theses in supply chain management
• Support third-party funding applications

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in economics, mathematics, psychology, biology, business/management, physics, or related fields
• PhD degree (for postdoctoral researchers) in one of the above fields
• Outstanding quantitative skills:
  • Strong foundation in probability theory and calculus (essential)
  • Background in game theory (highly valued)
  • Knowledge of econometrics (a plus)
• Proficiency in English

We Offer

• Opportunity to conduct innovative research with global impact
• Participation in international conferences, workshops, and advanced training
• Dedicated mentoring and a strong track record of placing graduates in academic careers
• Vibrant, supportive international scientific network
• Diverse, inclusive, and family-friendly working environment with flexible and part-time options
• Extensive advanced training opportunities

TUM is committed to increasing the representation of women and strongly encourages applications from qualified female candidates. The university offers family-friendly working conditions, and candidates with disabilities receive preference in cases of equal qualification. The position can be filled on a part-time basis. Remuneration follows TV-L E13, with salary determined by qualifications and professional experience.

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