University of Hamburg hires first "Senior Lecturers"

The university has strived for long-term employment conditions as part of the "Academic Career Paths" project, among others, since 2022. "We want to offer excellent researchers and lecturers optimal qualification prospects and to establish permanent positions for long-term academic tasks at the same time ," said Prof Dr Hauke Heekeren, President of the University of Hamburg, adding, "The focus is on structurally improving the transition from studies to an academic career for our employees, e.g., through transparent career paths and binding development opportunities."

The new senior lecturers will focus on qualitative research methods and sociological theory, while their main responsibilities will be teaching, independent research and organisational tasks. The new job model is not linked to a professorship and is interdisciplinary by nature. However, applications for a professorship are possible. The model can be transferred to all faculties. In terms of personnel, the faculty concerned can decide on new appointments, which may be temporary initially, but can be lifted following a successful evaluation. New research positions are also conceivable. The new employment model will be integrated into the Hub of Academic Career & Research Culture (HARC), which was established in early 2025. "Our new hub functions as a platform and experimental space to reinforce the career and research culture at UHH," says Prof Dr Jetta Frost, Vice President of Transfer, Academic Careers and Gender Equality.
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