As a rule, these positions are governed by the Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG; in German). In addition, there may be further regulations at the individual higher education institutions (e.g. Guiding principles of good work at JGU (in German)). Binding information on personnel law issues can be obtained from the Department of Human Resources (in German) Service PA 1.
In this type of job, it may well be that your supervisor is also your superior. This makes regular communication easy, but possible conflicts in the employment relationship could have an impact on the supervision of the doctorate and vice versa.
Advantages
- Strong involvement in the academic community
- Acquisition of relevant professional experience for a later career in academia or related professional activities
- Collectively agreed working conditions (in Rhineland-Palatinate in accordance with the TV-L (in German))
Disadvantages
- Such positions are rare and sought-after in the humanities and social sciences, therefore possibly Germany/Europe-wide job search necessary if the intended supervisor is unable to offer a position
- In the humanities and social sciences, part-time positions predominate (e.g. 50%, 65% or 75% positions). The combination of two part-time positions is conceivable in principle, but can also be challenging due to the diverse range of tasks and the required availability and flexibility.
With regard to working conditions, a distinction must be made between doctoral positions and positions that do not serve the purpose of qualification.
More information on the pages of the JGU Human Resources Department (in German)
University didactics – Offers for teaching staff
Conflict counselling (in German)
Where can I find advertisements for academic staff/research positions?
