Daniela Schmeinck

The University of Cologne is advertising a fixed-term scientific staff position at the Institute for Didactics of Subject Teaching (Institut für Didaktik des Sachunterrichts). The role combines research and teaching in the area of subject didactics for primary and special education teacher training, with a strong emphasis on the learning area of natural and social sciences (Sachunterricht). The successful candidate will carry out an independent research project with research interests explicitly including learning-process research, digital media, and inclusive education. In addition, the position includes planning and delivering teaching activities amounting to 4 SWS in a full-time appointment, as well as contributing to the institute’s broader research, teaching, and academic events. This opportunity is especially relevant for candidates interested in empirical educational research, primary education didactics, and the development of inclusive and digitally informed teaching and learning approaches. The post is based at the University of Cologne in Cologne, Germany, and is described as a full-time position (39.83 hours per week) starting on 2026-10-01. Applicants should hold a Master’s degree, first state examination for teaching in the relevant school tracks, or an equivalent completed degree in a primary-school-relevant natural and/or social science. Practical teaching experience is preferred, together with pedagogical aptitude, interest in empirical research, familiarity with current concepts in subject didactics, and a strong commitment to high performance. The university states that the position offers the possibility of a doctorate (promotion), making it suitable for candidates seeking a PhD-related academic career route while working in a research and teaching role. The appointment is initially limited to two years, with the possibility of a one-year extension. Remuneration is according to TV-L E13, subject to meeting the relevant collective agreement and personal requirements. Applications must be submitted online through the University of Cologne job portal using reference number Wiss2607-12. The application deadline is 2026-08-15. Applicants are asked to upload the required documents and supporting evidence for the stated qualifications and to apply without a photograph.