Postdocs

Your postdoctoral phase at the University of Hamburg

Congratulations on successfully completing your doctorate! If you now want to start a career in academia or broaden your professional horizons, an exciting phase is beginning for you—the postdoctoral phase. On this page, you will find all the relevant information, services, and tips to accompany and support you on your journey.

We are primarily targeting postdocs who completed their doctorate no more than four years ago. However, advanced postdocs, junior research group leaders, and junior professors will also find useful information and continuing education opportunities here to further advance their careers.

In the initial phase of your postdoctoral period, the focus is on making your research visible. This means you should make intensive efforts to publish, apply for third-party funding, and participate in national and international conferences. Building a vibrant network of colleagues at home and abroad is also essential for promoting future collaboration.

Later in your postdoctoral phase, the main focus will be on preparing for a professorship. You should try to lead research groups independently, gain teaching experience, and further deepen your scientific skills. A habilitation or other qualifications are also possible steps on the path to a professorship or to a career alternative outside of science.

Support and opportunities at the University of Hamburg

Would you like to network with other postdocs and learn more about funding opportunities, continuing education programs, or current project opportunities? Then the HRA offers you excellent networking opportunities. We also cordially invite you to attend our PostDoc Welcome Night. This event, organized by MINGZ and PEP, takes place twice a year. It offers an excellent opportunity to obtain comprehensive information, talk to like-minded people, and gain valuable insights into various career paths. Over snacks and impulse workshops, you can benefit from lively discussions and tips for your next step.

The dates and registration for this event can be found in the INDICO event calendar and in the University of Hamburg's event calendar.

The phases of your postdoctoral period at a glance

In the first few years of your postdoctoral period, you should make your research activities visible: publish papers, acquire third-party funding, and participate in important conferences. It is helpful to establish international contacts in order to strengthen your scientific reputation. The aim is to make your research work known in the scientific community and to further expand your expertise.

In the later years, the focus is on conducting independent research, gaining management experience, and taking on teaching assignments. These are important prerequisites for qualifying for a professorship. If applicable, completing a Habilitation (postdoctoral qualification in Germany) may be another milestone.

In addition to career opportunities, the University of Hamburg also offers assistance in finding scholarships and funding programs. It is worthwhile to take advantage of the HRA's advice, as external funding, such as scholarships, is an important supplement to permanent employment. To ensure that your academic work is noticed, it is also a good idea to actively expand your network, present your research on relevant platforms, and increase your own online visibility. If you have any further questions or would like individual advice, the Career Center at the University of Hamburg will also be happy to assist you.

We wish you every success on your postdoctoral journey and in shaping your academic future!