Post-Doc Initiative of the University of Bremen

WHAT CONDITIONS HAVE TO BE MET? An above-average publication output, an innovative and independent project proposal for the post-doc phase and a clear ability of achieving the objectives inherent in the Post-Doc-Initiative. The host professor, who has to be a full time professor of the University of Bremen (see "Instructions for applicants" in the guide for applicants), has to explain in a detailed letter of intent how the candidate is to be integrated within the research context at the University of Bremen while at the same time maintaining a high degree of independence. In this regard the respective research context is part of the evaluation.

FUNDING CONDITIONS: A post-doc position paid pursuant to the salary scale E 13 TV-L for a maximum of 24 months is granted after the completion of the PhD. Additionally, there is an allowance of up to €10,000 per year to cover e.g. costs of student assistants, publications and international mobility. Positions have to be taken up as soon as possible following the grant approval. Not later than 16 months after having taken up the early career postdoctoral position at the University of Bremen, an application for external subsequent funding for the post-docs own position has to be submitted.

B) INDEPENDENT POSTDOCTORAL POSITIONS
Advanced and internationally recruited post-docs can be offered four-year term positions, provided they can make a significant contribution to the university’s excellent research areas. The advanced post-docs should set up new research groups by acquiring third-party-funding and gain the qualifications necessary for a scientific career as a professor.

WHO CAN APPLY? Post-docs who received their doctorate at least one year and at most four years prior to application (date of issue of the doctoral degree certificate). Researchers who have completed their doctorate at the University of Bremen are entitled to apply if they have not been employed at the University of Bremen in the two years prior to the application date (internal applicants please make use of the Central Research Development Fund (CRDF)).

WHAT CONDITIONS HAVE TO BE MET? An excellent doctoral thesis, an above-average publication output, an excellent independent project proposal and a clear ability of achieving objectives inherent in the Post-Doc Initiative. The host professor, who has to be a full time professor of the University of Bremen (for eligibility criteria see in the guide for applicants the „Instructions for applicants”), has to explain in a detailed letter of intent how the candidate is to be integrated within the research context at the University of Bremen while at the same time maintaining a high degree of independence. In this regard the respective research context is part of the evaluation.

FUNDING CONDITIONS: Post-doc positions are paid pursuant to the salary scale E 13/14 TV-L for a maximum of 48 months. Additionally, there is an allowance of up to €10,000 per year to cover e.g. costs of student assistants, publications and international mobility. Research stays abroad are possible up to a maximum period of nine months.

PROCEDURE:
For the years 2012 to 2015 it is intended to publish yearly calls for proposals within the Post-Doc Initiative. This call for proposals comprises three two-year early career postdoctoral positions and three four-year independent postdoctoral positions. The number of positions available is shared equally between the natural and engineering sciences and the social sciences and humanities. At least half of the positions are reserved especially for women. The evaluation of previous achievements will take periods of child care into account. The University's respective Research Funding Committee recommends on the basis of external review suitable candidates to the Office of the University President for decision.

Proposals for funding two-year early career or four-year independent postdoctoral positions together with the cooperating professor’s letter of intent can be submitted online until 1st September 2013, 11:59 p.m.