Research Associate (Postdoc) Theoretical Philosophy § 28 Subsection 2 HmbHG
InstitutionFaculty of Humanities, Institute of Philosophy
Salary level
Start date01.10.2026, fixed for a period of three years (This is a fixed-term contract in accordance with Section 2 of the academic fixed-term labor contract act [Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG]).The contract provides for a maximum extension of up to three years depending on the associate’s achievements during the first stage. Providing that a position is available and that requirements have been fulfilled, the associate may apply for temporary civil servant status in accordance with Section 28 subsection 2 HmbHG.
Application deadline25.05.2026
Scope of workfull-time position suitable for part-time
Your responsibilities
Duties include teaching and research in the respective department or institute. Research associates may also pursue independent research and further academic qualifications as well as acquire teaching experience. These duties are intended to promote academic achievement. Therefore, at least one-third of set working hours will be made available for the associate’s own academic work.
5 teaching hours per week (5 LVS)
Your profile
A university degree in a relevant field, plus doctorate.
You have completed an outstanding doctorate (upon signing the contract) and have a strong research profile in theoretical philosophy, demonstrated by publications (commensurate with your experience). You are now pursuing a project in theoretical philosophy that addresses a topic or area that meaningfully complements research and teaching at the Institute of Philosophy at the University of Hamburg.
You are also willing to engage actively in teaching (including offering courses beyond your specialisation) and to contribute to academic self-governance (such as occasionally serving on committees). You are either proficient in German or willing to acquire the necessary language skills to teach in German after two years.
We offer
1. Reliable remuneration based on wage agreements
2. Continuing education opportunities
3. University pensions
4. Attractive location
5. Flexible working hours
6. Work-life balance opportunities
7. Health management, EGYM Wellpass
8. Educational leave
9. 30 days of vacation per annum
We are a dynamic and international philosophy department. Our faculty is trained in the analytic tradition and predominantly publishes in English. We have highly committed students, many of whom we involve early on in teaching as tutors and who are well connected beyond their studies, thereby contributing to a stimulating teaching and learning environment. Our department is located in the vibrant and leafy central campus of the university, on the 12th floor of the newly renovated philosophers’ tower (Philturm).
Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence is one of the strongest research educational institutions in Germany. Our work in research, teaching, educational and knowledge exchange activities is fostering the next generation of responsible global citizens ready to tackle the global challenges facing us. Our guiding principle “Innovating and Cooperating for a Sustainable Future in a digital age” drives collaboration with academic and nonacademic partner institutions in the Hamburg Metropolitan Region and around the world. We would like to invite you to be part of our community to work with us in creating sustainable and digital change for a dynamic and pluralist society.
The University of Hamburg is committed to equity. Diversity enriches our university life, whether in our studies, research, teaching, education, or workplace. We therefore welcome all applications, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnic or social background, age, religion or belief, disability, or chronic illness.
The University of Hamburg strives to increase the number of women in academia, and encourages qualified female academics to apply.
Severely disabled and disabled applicants with the same status will receive preference over equally qualified non-disabled applicants.