The Institute of Slavic Studies of the Polish Academy of Sciences (ISS PAS) is inviting expressions of interest from postdoctoral researchers interested in applying for Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowships (MSCA PF) under the Horizon Europe program, with ISS PAS as their host institution.

We welcome applications from ambitious and talented scholars from around the world who are keen to carry out innovative research in a vibrant and interdisciplinary academic environment in the heart of Warsaw, Poland.

We invite applications for a postdoctoral position focusing on the history of Central Europe after World War II, with an emphasis on forced migrations, landscape anthropology, and material culture studies. 

The successful candidate will be mentored by dr hab. Karolina Ćwiek-Rogalska, a cultural anthropologist and ethnologist at the Institute of Slavic Studies, Polish Academy of Sciences. Dr hab. Karolina Ćwiek-Rogalska leads the ERC Starting Grant project Spectral Recycling (2022–2027), which investigates the experiences of post-war settlers in Poland, Czechia, and Slovakia, particularly their interactions with material remnants left by previous German inhabitants. The project employs a hauntological approach to explore how these ghosts of the past continue to influence contemporary cultural landscapes

About the Institute

ISS PAS is one of the leading research centers in Central and Eastern Europe, with over 70 years of academic excellence. Our interdisciplinary work focuses on the languages, cultures, histories, literatures, societies, and identities of Slavic and neighboring regions. We are proud holders of the HR Excellence in Research award, reflecting our commitment to providing a supportive, transparent, and inclusive research environment.

What We Offer

  • Comprehensive support in preparing and submitting your MSCA PF application, including internal review and mentoring
  • A stimulating research environment with access to a multidisciplinary team of experts
  • Full access to ISS PAS’s infrastructure, library, and academic resources
  • Opportunities for publication, international conference participation, and career development
  • Office space and administrative support during the fellowship
  • Assistance with relocation and settling in Warsaw

Who Can Apply

We are looking for researchers of any nationality who:

  • Hold a PhD at the time of the MSCA PF deadline (10 September 2025)
  • Have no more than 8 years of research experience since obtaining their PhD
  • Have not resided or carried out their main activity in Poland for more than 12 months in the 36 months prior to the call deadline
  • Propose a research project aligned with the thematic areas of ISS PAS

For more on our departments, visit: https://ispan.waw.pl/default/en/about-the-institute/departments/

Timeline

  • Deadline for expressions of interest at ISS PAS: 30 June 2025
  • MSCA PF application deadline (EU): 10 September 2025
  • Selected candidates will receive full institutional support in preparing their fellowship application.

How to Apply

Please submit the following documents in a single PDF file via email to horyzont@ispan.edu.pl with the subject line:
“MSCA PF – Expression of Interest – [Your Name]”

  • Curriculum Vitae (max. 2 pages)
  • Short description of your proposed research project (max. 2 pages)
  • A brief statement explaining your motivation to join ISS PAS

More Information

We look forward to hearing from outstanding scholars eager to make an impact with us in Warsaw!