About the opportunity
The Institute for Energy Law (EWIR) at the University of Cologne is seeking a part-time Research Associate (19.92 hours/week) for a doctoral position under Prof. Körber. The role combines independent dissertation research—primarily in energy law, antitrust law, or telecommunications law—with academic duties. Responsibilities include supporting research and teaching at the chair, organizing workshops and conferences, and leading undergraduate tutorial groups in German civil law (BGB). The position starts on January 1, 2027, and is fixed-term through March 31, 2029, with remuneration under pay grade TV-L E13.
Salary and benefits
- Opportunity to complete a doctorate (PhD) under Prof. Körber in energy law, antitrust law, or telecommunications law
- Remuneration based on pay scale TV-L E13 for public sector employees in German states
- Diverse and equal-opportunity working environment
- Support for work-life balance and family commitments
- Flexible working hour models and option for hybrid/mobile work
- Comprehensive continuing education and workplace health management programs
Who can apply?
- At least one German State Examination in Law (§ 5 DRiG) completed with distinction (mit Prädikat)
- Interest in energy law and the institute's core research areas
- English language skills required for research
- Openness to interdisciplinary research approaches
- Prior relevant knowledge in energy, antitrust, or telecommunications law is advantageous but not mandatory
Required documents
- Informative application documents
- Proof of required legal qualifications and certificates
- Application submitted without a photo
When to apply
- Application deadline: October 31, 2026
- Position start date: January 1, 2027
- Fixed-term contract duration: January 1, 2027, to March 31, 2029
How to apply
- Access the official job portal at https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de
- Locate reference number Wiss2609-02
- Upload your application documents without a photo before the deadline of October 31, 2026
Additional information
- Reference number: Wiss2609-02
- Working hours: Part-time at 19.92 hours per week (50% position)
- Applications from women are strongly encouraged and given preference under equal qualifications pursuant to the LGG NRW
- For inquiries, contact Ms. Raïna Peternek at rpeterne@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…
- Law graduates who have achieved distinction (Prädikat) in a German State Examination and wish to pursue a doctorate in energy or economic law
- Researchers interested in combining dissertation work with practical academic teaching and event organization experience
- Candidates seeking a flexible part-time university research position with mobile working options in Cologne
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires a German legal qualification (§ 5 DRiG State Exam), limiting eligibility primarily to applicants qualified within the German legal training system
- This is a part-time position (19.92 hours per week) with a fixed-term contract ending March 31, 2029
- Teaching responsibilities include leading undergraduate legal tutorials in German civil law (BGB)
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers a strong platform for early-career legal scholars seeking to earn a doctorate while gaining teaching and research experience in energy, antitrust, or telecommunications law. The 50% academic contract provides structured salary support and university resources while leaving designated time for dissertation research.
Our take
Ideal for law graduates with a distinguished German State Examination who wish to complete a doctorate in energy law at the University of Cologne. Candidates without the required German legal qualification should look for other international research roles.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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