We like to keep our job advertisements as short and
sweet as possible, but if you are not familiar with the German academic system,
some terminology might require a little more context. We have put together some
key terms to help you navigate. You can also find more information under "Useful information".
(1) The
"W" system
The remuneration of professors at German universities
is governed by the "W" pay scale ("W" stands for "Wissenschaft" [science]). W1
designates an entry-level salary, W2 aims at more established researchers and
W3 is the highest basic salary. The basic salaries in each pay scale group are regulated
by the Hessian Remuneration Act (Hessisches Besoldungsgesetz). In addition to
the basic salary, you may receive a family allowance and other salary
components. These additional components are part of the appointment
negotiations and can include appointment benefits, performance bonuses or other
one-time, short-term or permanent bonuses.
(2) Roles
Analogous to the pay scale, Goethe University classifies
professorships according to seniority and reputation as Assistant Professors
(W1), Full Professors (W2) and Distinguished Professors (W3). Assistant and
Full Professors might also be advertised as tenure track posts for an initial
six-year term. If tenure is approved at the end of the term, the post will be
made permanent and promotion to the rank of Full Professor (W2) or
Distinguished Professor (W3) will be granted.
(3) Employee
status
Professors in Germany are usually civil servants
(Beamte), which is a unique position within the German labour market. While
public employees are generally subject to the same laws and regulations as employees
in the private sector, civil servants have certain privileges and duties
towards the German state. In general, both options are available to you, unless
the job advertisement specifies that the post can only be filled with a public
employee.
(4) Timeline
Posts will either be filled as soon as possible or by
a specified date, which could also be a time frame such as the 2024 winter term.
In general, appointment procedures may take about a year from the application
deadline to your first day as professor at Goethe University. We have briefly
outlined the different stages of the appointment procedure under “Useful information".
(5) Appointment
requirements
Formal appointment requirements are regulated by the
Hessian Higher Education Act (Hessisches Hochschulgesetz). Our job advertisements
point you to the relevant clauses. We have also summarised the main clauses under
“Useful information".
