First audition? Applying for (Junior-)Professorships

This course takes place in a blended learning format. You will receive access to a webcast (length: 3.75 h) in which all essential content on the topic of "Applying for (Junior) Professorships" is presented in detail. You will then participate in a group session via Zoom in which open questions will be discussed. Furthermore, important aspects regarding the application process will be practiced (e.g. introduction to the scientific presentation, committee interview). Please note: Watching the webcast as well as preparing a 3-min talk (see below) is mandatory for participation in the group session.

Webcast

Duration: 3,5 h, available 3 weeks before the group session
The aim of the webcast is to provide participants with detailed information about all phases of the appointment procedure for professorships (focus Germany), and to give them concrete advice and tips for their applications. The webcast will first deal with the procedure and the formal aspects of the appointment process. Afterwards, all necessary application documents (especially CV, cover letter, research and teaching concept) will be discussed in detail and partly illustrated with sample materials. The third part addresses all aspects of the hearing. Participants will learn about the requirements for the application talk and the demonstration lecture. In addition, the most frequently asked questions in the interview with the selection committee will be discussed.

Tasks for preparing the group session (mandatory)

Watching the webcast, Preparation of a 3-minute talk to present the own profile (introductory part of the application talk, instructions are given in the webcast)

Small group session

Duration: 6 h, 9:00 a.m – 3:00 p.m., via zoom
In the group sessions, there is first of all the opportunity to clarify all the participants' open questions about applying for professorships. Subsequently, it is planned that all participants will give their prepared 3-minute presentation to present their own profile (introductory part of the scientific talk) and receive feedback from the participants and the trainer. Finally, the interview with the committee will be discussed. Here the participants will practice to answer some typical and challenging questions from committee interview and will also receive feedback.

Contents

• Selection and appointment process
• Working with the job advertisement
• Application documents (CV, cover letter, concepts)
• Hearing (Scientific presentation, Teaching demonstration, further elements)
• Interview with the appointment committee

Learning Goals

The Participants learn ….

• about the rules and practices of appointment procedures
• to present themselves in the written documents
• the requirements for the scientific presentation and teaching demonstration
• to respond to the most relevant questions in the committee interview

Methods

• Input via Webcast (self-study format)
• Interactive discussions
• Short presentations oft he participants and feedback
• Simulation of interview questions