The Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP), a research-driven infrastructure based at DIW Berlin, is one of the largest and longest running multidisciplinary panel studies worldwide, and currently surveys around 30,000 people in nearly 15,000 households. SOEP aims to capture social change and thus handles a constant stream of new and diverse topics and tasks. Its data collection and generation adhere to the concept of the survey or data life cycle.

Starting on October 1st 2024, DIW Berlin is looking for a

Head of the SOEP Innovation Sample (f/m/div)

(Full time)

The Innovation Sample of the longitudinal Socioeconomic Panel Survey (SOEP-IS) allows researchers at scientific institutions worldwide to collect specific data for their own research projects, contribute to shaping the questionnaire, and subsequently analyze the data in a timely manner.

We are currently looking for an individual to lead the SOEP-IS, who has a proven track record of excellent survey methodological expertise with a particular focus on survey operations, novel methodological designs, research ethics, survey interviewers, and inclusive samples.

Your responsibilities:

• Management and survey management of the innovation study of the Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP-IS)
• Coordination and planning of the entire data collection, data preparation and data distribution process of the SOEP-IS study
• Coordination and planning of all process steps of the data life cycle with the survey institute
• Supervision of a small team of non-scientific staff and student assistants
• Coordinating, guiding and significantly taking over the application and selection process of external survey modules for the SOEP-IS study; this also includes communication with researchers applying for external modules for the SOEP-IS study
• Own research with a focus on survey research and the analysis of panel data in the context of innovative and experimental social science research

Your qualifications:

• Completed doctoral degree with honors in the social sciences, economics, psychology or a related field
• Relevant scientific expertise in the field of survey methodological research and practice, particularly in dealing with interviewers in surveys and survey-methodological experiments
• Comprehensive experience in the conception and implementation of surveys in various modes (CAPI/CAWI/CALVI/CASI)
• very good knowledge of various questionnaire pretest procedures
• Very good knowledge of quantitative survey and evaluation methods
• Experience in working with data from the SOEP or its Related Studies
• Independent, responsible, and dedicated work approach
• Excellent proficiency in English, both written and spoken
• Excellent organizational and coordination skills
• German language skills at level B2 are desirable

What we offer:

A job at a research institute with around 300 colleagues, where diversity, equal opportunities, and a healthy work-life balance guide all areas of work. Flexible work schedules tailored to your needs as well as remote work are key parts of our work culture.

Insights into the SOEP data collection process and early access to unique and restricted data, including linked panel and administrative life course data.

The opportunity to contribute to survey methodological research, collaborating closely with the SOEP team and the field institute.

An exciting and varied job where you will gain deep insights into a research institute as well as national and international science systems. At DIW Berlin, you will have the perfect opportunity to gain further subject-specific training at an institute where science and politics intersect.

DIW Berlin supports your professional and personal qualification and advancement via internal and external career development opportunities and annual performance reviews.

You are paid according to the collective agreement for the public sector (Tarifvertrag des öffentlichen Dienstes, TVöD Bund), which includes an annual bonus as well as a company pension with VBL Ost.

The office is located in the middle of Berlin-Mitte convenient to public transportation. As a DIW Berlin employee, you are eligible for a reduced VBB-Firmenticket that is partially subsidized.

This is a fixed-term position limited to 31st July 2027. A transition to permanent employment is being pursued.

Remuneration is paid according to TVöD Bund, salary group E14.

Application and information:

We value diversity and welcome all applications regardless of gender, disability, nationality, or ethnic or social origin. If you’re interested in the position, we are excited to hear from you!

Please apply online by 30th September 2024 quoting the reference number SOEP-14-24 and including a cover letter, CV, copies of degree certificates, and references. Please do not include a photo. If you have any questions about the online application, contact recruiting@diw.de.

In-person interviews are planned to take place in the 42. and 43. calendar weeks.

You can find more information about DIW Berlin on our website, www.diw.de. Please contact Prof. Dr. Sabine Zinn for more information on the specific tasks and responsibilities of this position.

DIW Berlin (German Institute for Economic Research) has been one of Germany’s leading economic research institutes since 1925. It analyzes economic and social scientific relationships in societally relevant research areas and uses the findings to provide advice to policymakers and society at large. DIW Berlin is a part of national and international networks, provides research infrastructure that is used worldwide, and supports young researchers in their careers. DIW Berlin is independent and, as a member of the Leibniz Association, is financed primarily by public funds.