Research Assistant (PhD Candidate) in German Language Didactics – University of Oldenburg, Germany

Summary

The Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg seeks a research assistant who will also be a PhD candidate in German language didactics. The position is a 50% appointment on an E13 TV-L salary scale for three years, starting April 1, 2027, with an application deadline of October 30, 2026. The role combines participation in research projects, scientific services, and teaching duties amounting to two LVS. Candidates must hold a Master of Education or equivalent in German Studies and present a doctoral project proposal. The university offers extensive training, mentoring, conference participation, integration into the 3GO graduate school, and a range of benefits including 30 days vacation, pension scheme, flexible hours, and childcare support.

Key Facts

Department	Institute of German Studies (Faculty III – Language and Cultural Studies)
Position Type	Research Assistant (PhD Candidate)
Discipline	German Language Didactics
Research Area	German language teaching methodology
Degree Required	Master of Education, 1st State Examination or comparable qualification in German Studies
Salary	E13 TV-L
Funding	Salary according to E13 TV-L
Contract Duration	3 years
Deadline	2026-10-30
Required Documents	cover letter, tabular CV, copies of certificates, maximum 5-page exposé of dissertation project, list of publications, lectures, and teaching activities (if applicable)
Employer Address	Ammerländer Heerstraße 114-118 26129 Oldenburg, Germany
Employer Contact	Prof. Dr. Katrin Kleinschmidt-Schinke ([email protected])

About the Project

The doctoral project should focus on German language didactics, preferably addressing writing texts, speaking and listening competencies, or classroom communication. Applicants must submit a concise exposé outlining their research questions, methodology, and expected contributions to the field of German language teaching methodology.

Key Responsibilities

• Participate in research projects on German language teaching methodology
• Provide scientific services in German language teaching
• Teach German language didactics (2 LVS) including course organization, preparation, follow‑up, student advising, and examinations

Required Skills

• Sound knowledge of German language teaching methodology
• Sound linguistic knowledge
• Experience with or willingness to learn empirical research methods
• Familiarity with software such as SPSS, MAXQDA, transcription programs, Citavi/Zotero
• Interest in research on writing and/or speaking and listening skills
• Willingness to cooperate with schools and other institutions
• Commitment, reliability, independent and responsible work ethic
• Willingness to learn new subject areas

Who Should Apply

Applicants who have completed a Master of Education, 1st State Examination or comparable qualification in German Studies, can present a doctoral project in German language didactics, and are motivated to engage in research and teaching at a university level. Candidates with knowledge of German language teaching methodology, empirical research methods, and relevant software are especially encouraged to apply.

Benefits

• Participation in doctoral colloquium and summer schools
• Integration into the 3GO graduate school for social sciences and humanities
• Attractive training and mentoring opportunities
• Family‑friendly university environment
• Dynamic university team
• Access to networks at the Institute for German Studies and related research centers
• 30 days of vacation
• Secure remuneration according to collective agreement
• Company pension scheme
• Further training opportunities
• Flexible working hours
• Health management
• Mobile working
• Work‑life balance support
• Childcare support
• University sports
• Bicycle‑friendly employer
• Corporate benefits

About the Employer

The Institute of German Studies at the Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg offers teacher‑training oriented programmes and conducts research in German language and literature didactics. It collaborates closely with related disciplines such as linguistics, DaF/DaZ, and educational sciences, and is part of a broader network that includes the Oldenburg Research Center for Children’s and Young Adult Literature and the Center for Teacher Education – Didactic Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline?

October 30, 2026.

What is the contract duration?

Three years, starting April 1, 2027.

What documents must be submitted?

A single PDF containing a cover letter, tabular CV, copies of certificates, a maximum 5‑page exposé, and, if applicable, a list of publications, lectures, and teaching activities.

What is the salary level?

Remuneration according to the E13 TV‑L salary scale.

Is childcare support offered?

Yes, the university provides support with childcare.