About the opportunity
The Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (MNF) at the University of Cologne comprises six departments with around 190 professorships and 10,000 students. The position is one of two managing directors of the Dean’s Office, responsible for research management, studies and teaching, gender equality, early-career researchers, internationalization, IT, communications, and doctoral and habilitation administration. The role involves leading and managing central faculty administration areas, providing expert and organizational leadership to assigned units, driving strategic processes, and advising the Dean’s Office and faculty committees.
Salary and benefits
- A varied and demanding role in an international environment
- A diverse and equal-opportunity working environment
- Support for work-life balance
- Flexible working hours models
- Comprehensive further education and training opportunities
- Company health management offerings
- Opportunity for mobile working
- Remuneration under Entgeltgruppe 15 TV-L, provided the relevant tariff and personal requirements are met
Who can apply?
- Completed scientific university degree and doctorate, preferably in a scientific discipline
- Several years of relevant experience in science management, ideally in the higher education sector
- Experience in the development and implementation of strategic initiatives in research, studies, or early-career support is an advantage
- Pronounced analytical skills and high affinity for strategic management tools
- Strong communication and leadership skills, as well as confident demeanor in dealing with scientists, administration, and committees
- Very good written and spoken German and English language skills
Required documents
- Meaningful application documents including proof of the requested qualifications
When to apply
- The application deadline ends on September 28, 2026.
How to apply
- Apply online via the University of Cologne job portal at https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de
- Submit application documents including supporting evidence without a photo, referencing reference number TUV2607-13.
Additional information
- Reference number: TUV2607-13
- The position starts on November 1, 2026.
- The position is full-time with 39.83 hours per week and is permanent.
- The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity; applications from women are preferentially considered in accordance with the LGG NRW.
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…
- Candidates with a doctorate and a track record in strategic science management.
- Professionals experienced in managing research, internationalization, or early-career support initiatives.
- Leaders comfortable advising deans and committees on complex faculty-wide decisions.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires high-level proficiency in both German and English to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
- The scope of the position is broad, covering everything from IT and communications to doctoral administration.
- Applicants should be prepared for a demanding, high-stakes environment within a large faculty.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers a rare opportunity to influence the academic and research culture of a major faculty. It is ideal for someone aiming to move into a senior administrative leadership role where they can implement strategic initiatives and support the next generation of researchers.
Our take
Highly recommended for experienced science managers with a strategic mindset; less suitable for those who prefer a narrow, specialized focus or those without prior experience in university administration.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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