About the opportunity
The Department of Special Education and Rehabilitation at the Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Cologne, is offering a full-time, permanent position for a Research Associate in the field of Social Work at the Chair of Educational Support and Social Work. The chair’s teaching and research focus on education and participation, theories and practices of social work (particularly child and youth welfare), and digitization in educational contexts. The successful candidate will engage in teaching, conduct independent research, support departmental coordination and student supervision, and participate in self-governance, with opportunities to pursue further academic career paths.
Salary and benefits
- Diverse and equal-opportunity working environment
- Support for work-life balance
- Flexible working hour models
- Comprehensive further education and training offerings
- Company health management programs
- Opportunity for mobile working / remote work
- Remuneration according to Pay Group 13 TV-L (subject to tariff and personal requirements)
Who can apply?
- Relevant degree in Social Work (Bachelor's and Master's degrees)
- Completed relevant doctorate / PhD
- Experience in relevant teaching (theories, practical supervision, child and youth welfare in BA and MA programs)
- In-depth knowledge in methodologies and theories of social work, ethics, and social work law
- Empirical research experience
- Knowledge or interest in the field of digitization and social work
- Interest in an academic career
Required documents
- Meaningful application documents
- Supporting certificates and proofs for the required qualifications
- Applications should be submitted without an application photo
When to apply
- The position is to be filled at the earliest possible date.
- Application deadline ends on 21.09.2026.
How to apply
- Prepare your application documents and required proofs without an application photo.
- Submit your application online via the University of Cologne job portal at https://jobportal.uni-koeln.de referencing reference code Wiss2608-03.
Additional information
- Reference code (Kennziffer): Wiss2608-03
- Working hours: Full-time with 39.83 hours per week
- Employment type: Permanent / Indefinite (unbefristet)
- The University of Cologne promotes equal opportunities and diversity; applications from women are preferentially considered in accordance with the LGG NRW.
- For questions, contact Prof. Dr. Nadia Kutscher via nadia.kutscher@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…
- Doctoral degree holders in Social Work seeking a permanent academic position.
- Researchers with expertise in child and youth welfare, social work theory, or digitization.
- Educators experienced in teaching BA and MA programs with a focus on social work ethics and law.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires a high level of proficiency in German for teaching and departmental self-governance.
- Applicants should verify the specific expectations for departmental coordination alongside their independent research duties.
- While hybrid work is supported, the position is based in Cologne, necessitating proximity for regular on-site teaching and student supervision.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This permanent, full-time role is an excellent fit for an established academic looking to build a long-term career within a major German university. It provides a stable environment to balance independent research with teaching and administrative leadership, offering a clear pathway for professional development within the Faculty of Human Sciences.
Our take
This is a strong opportunity for experienced Social Work scholars who want a permanent, research-active role in Germany. Those without a completed PhD or relevant teaching experience in German-speaking academic contexts may find this position less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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