Project Student Assistant (m/f/d)

Position: Project Student Assistant - Monitoring of Chinese Technology Policies and Developments (10 hours a week, one year, renewable for two more years). The position is part of the MERICS China Tech Observatory project.

Starting date: 01.07.2025.

Location: Berlin, Germany; with possibility for remote.

About us: MERICS is a leading China-focused research institute committed to providing in-depth analysis and understanding of contemporary China. In the Science, Technology and Innovation (STIP) team, our work centers on dissecting the intricacies of China's technological advancements and policy shifts, aiming to offer nuanced insights into how these elements influence the global technology landscape and geopolitics.

Main tasks:

  • Regular monitoring of Chinese policies and developments: You will play a critical role in tracking and analyzing the latest technology policy changes and advancements within China, leveraging a variety of sources including news outlets, academic publications, and official announcements.
  • Organization of events: Assist in organizing events such as workshops and conferences that delve into China's technology landscape and its geopolitical ramifications.
  • Research in databases: Engage in comprehensive database research to support our institute's projects, focusing on technological trends, policy developments, and geopolitical shifts related to China.

Required skills:

  • Chinese reading ability: Essential proficiency in reading and understanding Chinese to effectively monitor and interpret policy developments and technological advancements from China.
  • Interest in the geopolitics of technology: A strong interest in exploring the nexus between technology and geopolitics.
  • MS office proficiency: Competence in using MS Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for the purposes of research, data analysis, and presentation.

Desired skills:

  • German language proficiency: Knowledge of German is advantageous but not mandatory.
  • Programming or statistical analysis skills: Experience with programming languages (e.g., Python) or statistical tools (e.g., R, SPSS) for sophisticated data analysis would be beneficial.

Why join us?

  • Specialized focus: Engage in meaningful work that contributes to understanding China's impact on the global technology sector and international relations.
  • Opportunities for learning and growth: Acquire valuable insights and skills in Chinese policy analysis, geopolitics of technology, and event organization within a research-focused environment.
  • Flexible working hours: We offer flexible hours to accommodate your academic commitments. We have a great office in Berlin-Mitte, and the possibility for you to work from home, if desired.
  • Application process: Interested candidates are invited to submit a CV and a cover letter explaining their interest in the position and any relevant experience to [email protected], with the subject line "Student Assistant Application - China Tech Observatory." Please indicate in your letter when you are planning to graduate. 

We look forward to applications from students who will be enrolled at a university at least until mid-2026. BA students are encouraged to apply.

Application deadline: 01.05.2025.

At MERICS, you'll be part of a dedicated team striving to illuminate the complexities of China's technological ascendancy and its global repercussions. We look forward to welcoming you aboard and exploring these critical issues together.