About the opportunity
The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at the University of Cologne invites applications for a Research Associate position at the Institute of Geography Education. The institute is responsible for teaching geography in teacher training programs and is affiliated with the Department of Mathematics and Science Education. The successful candidate will develop and conduct a doctoral project focusing on education for sustainable development, language-sensitive geography teaching, games in geography education, or political education in geography teaching, alongside teaching (2 hours per week) and contributing to research and publication projects within the Human Geography and Didactics research group.
Salary and benefits
- Opportunity to pursue a doctorate
- Diverse and equal-opportunity working environment
- Support for work-life balance
- Flexible working hours models
- Comprehensive further education and training offerings
- Corporate health management programs
- Remuneration according to pay group 13 TV-L, subject to tariff and personal requirements
Who can apply?
- Very good or good, qualified degree in Geography (State Examination or Master's in Geography)
- Good knowledge of German and English
- Completed teacher training period (Referendariat) is preferred
Required documents
- Meaningful application documents including supporting certificates for the required qualifications
- No application photo required
When to apply
- The application deadline is November 18, 2026.
- The position is to be filled starting April 1, 2027.
How to apply
- Prepare your application documents including qualification proofs without an application photo.
- Submit your application online via the University of Cologne job portal using reference code Wiss2610-05.
Additional information
- Reference code: Wiss2610-05
- The position is part-time with 19.92 hours per week.
- The position is fixed-term until March 31, 2029.
- The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity; applications from women are given preferential consideration in accordance with the LGG NRW.
- For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Alexandra Budke via email at alexandra.budke@uni-koeln.de.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Ideal for geography graduates looking to advance their academic career by pursuing a doctorate in geography education.
- Well-suited for candidates with strong interests in innovative educational research such as games in geography or sustainable development.
- Provides structured research experience and university-level teaching practice within an established academic department.
What should you think carefully about?
- The position is part-time (19.92 hours per week) and fixed-term until March 31, 2029.
- Proficiency in both German and English is required for teaching, research, and collaboration.
- Relocation to Cologne, Germany, or the surrounding region is necessary as the position is on-site.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers a strong stepping stone for early-career researchers aiming to complete a PhD while gaining hands-on teaching and academic publishing experience in Europe.
Our take
Geography graduates with a strong academic background and an interest in pedagogy should seriously consider applying before the November 18, 2026 deadline, especially those seeking structured doctoral support.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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