Postdocs

For many scholars, the submission and defence of their doctoral thesis marks the ending of an exciting, sometimes stressful period of time. What lies ahead? Those who intend to stay in academia after their doctorate have the opportunity to work as postdocs and continue to conduct research. Learn more about this now!

What do postdocs do?

Postdocs have completed their university studies and their doctorate and are employed at universities of applied sciences (UAS) or universities, at research institutes or in industry.

At universities, they usually have fixed-term contracts financed by project funding. Their tasks usually depend on the respective research project. For example, as a postdoc, you may have the tasks below:

• You develop concepts, theories or concrete practical research projects.
• To do so, you collect data and analyse them.
• You coordinate sub-projects and raise third-party funds.
• You publish your research results and present them – for example, at conferences.
• You supervise student and research assistants and assist doctoral candidates if they have questions or problems.

Which qualifications should postdocs bring?

Of course, the subject-specific qualifications you should bring largely depend on the position you apply for. In general, completed university studies and a doctoral degree are required for employment as a postdoc. We also expect postdocs to show initiative and willingness to define their own areas of responsibility independently. In addition, you should bring team skills, as you will often conduct research in teams.

Would you like to have a look at our current job advertisements for postdocs?

• Current job advertisements

What do postdocs earn?

At universities, postdocs are usually assigned to salary groups E13 or E14 according to the Collective Agreement of the German Federal States (TV-L). If you work as a postdoc for several years, you will progress to higher experience levels and your salary will increase. You can view the salary overviews on Finanzverwaltung NRW’s website.

• Salary overviews for salaried employees

Which career paths are there?

Many scholars use their time as postdocs to qualify for the appointment as professor at a university of applied sciences. HSBI’s Career@BI project will provide special support in this endeavour: Our tandem positions offer you the opportunity to gain professional experience in one of our partner companies while at the same time you work at the university. Would you like to learn more?

• Career@BI project
• Tandem positions

What does the application process look like?

Applications can simply be submitted online through our application management portal. You will find the link at the bottom of the respective job posting. We look forward to getting to know you!

• Advice on applying at HSBI

Contact

 Do you have any other questions or suggestions? We look forward to getting in touch with you!

• Staff Council for academic staff