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DAAD Lectorship: Your springboard to an international academic career!
Do you dream of a career in the international higher education sector? The DAAD Lectorship Programme offers you the chance to teach German at universities worldwide while gaining valuable experience. Find out more about the requirements, application deadlines, and funding opportunities. Do you need support with your application? Contact us for personalised advice.
The topic briefly and concisely
The DAAD Lectureship Programme offers an excellent opportunity to internationally orient your career and to promote the German language and culture worldwide.
There are various editing models (standard, specialised, iC editing) that are tailored to different focuses and target audiences. The choice of the appropriate model depends on your individual interests and qualifications.
The DAAD provides comprehensive financial and organisational support during the lecturing period. Take the opportunity to enhance your intercultural skills and expand your professional network, which can increase the likelihood of promotion by up to 20%.
Would you like to teach German at a foreign university while advancing your academic career? Discover the diverse opportunities of the DAAD Lectureship Programme and learn how to apply successfully.
The DAAD Lectureship Programme offers you an excellent opportunity to orient your academic career internationally. It allows you to teach German at a foreign university while advancing your academic career. The programme aims to strengthen the German language and culture abroad and present Germany as an attractive study and research location. If you are interested in a career in the field of German Studies or German as a Foreign Language (DaF), the DAAD Lectureship Programme is an ideal option.
What is the DAAD Lectureship Programme?
The DAAD Lectureship Programme is an initiative by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) designed to place qualified university lecturers and junior researchers at foreign higher education institutions. The lecturers undertake teaching duties in the field of German as a Foreign Language and contribute to promoting German language and culture. The programme is a vital part of Germany’s foreign cultural and educational policy and is supported by the Federal Foreign Office. Further information about the programme can be found on the DAAD website.
Target Groups of the Programme
The programme primarily targets young university lecturers and junior researchers with a degree in German Studies, DaF, or a related field. In addition to subject expertise, intercultural competencies and the ability to implement projects independently are required. Some positions are particularly attractive for junior researchers who wish to combine their research activities with teaching duties. It is important to note that native speakers are not the only candidates sought; rather, academic partners who can provide current insights into German Studies are desired.
Overview of Global Presence
The DAAD Lectureship Network includes approximately 400 lecturers worldwide in over 100 countries. These lecturers work at universities and colleges around the world and help spread German language and culture. The locations are diverse, ranging from European countries to Asia and Latin America. The lecturers take on various tasks depending on the needs of the respective host university. Information on current lectureship vacancies can be found on the DAAD website.
Promoting German language skills worldwide: Tasks as a DAAD Lecturer
As a DAAD lecturer, you take on a variety of tasks ranging from teaching and language instruction to advising and supporting students. Your work significantly contributes to the promotion of the German language and culture in the host country and supports academic exchange between Germany and the respective country. The specific responsibilities may vary depending on the location and the needs of the host university.
Teaching and Language Instruction
Conducting language courses and specialized events forms the core of your role as a DAAD lecturer. You teach German as a foreign language at various levels and impart knowledge about the country. Additionally, you create teaching materials and develop curricula to meet the needs of the students. Some lecturers are also involved in teacher training and provide workshops for German teachers in the host country. The DAAD job postings provide detailed information about the specific requirements of each position.
Advising and Support
Another important aspect of your role is the study advising and scholarship information. You inform students about study opportunities in Germany and advise them on DAAD scholarships and exchange programmes. Furthermore, you support foreign students who wish to study in Germany, assisting them with the preparation and implementation of their study stay. The DAAD scholarship database offers a comprehensive overview of the various funding options.
Cultural and Academic Networking
As a DAAD lecturer, you promote academic exchange between Germany and the host country. You organise cultural events and workshops to present German culture and foster intercultural dialogue. Moreover, you support international collaborations between universities and contribute to networking among scholars and students. In Vietnam and Laos, for example, DAAD lecturers act as key links between local universities and German higher education institutions, as described on the DAAD lecturers in Vietnam page.
Standard, specialist, or iC editor: Which model suits you?
The DAAD Lectureship Programme offers various models and specialisations tailored to different focuses and target groups. Choosing the right model depends on your individual interests and qualifications. The various models differ in terms of their tasks, locations, and target groups. It is important to inform yourself in advance about the different options to find the model that suits you best.
Regular Lectureships
Regular Lectureships make up the largest part of the DAAD lectureships and focus on language teaching and German studies. These positions are primarily based in Europe (about 70% of the positions) and emphasise German as a foreign language (DaF) and cultural aspects. As a regular lecturer, you teach German at various levels and impart knowledge about German culture and society. You create teaching materials and develop curricula to meet the needs of students. The DAAD information for foreign lecturers provides a good overview of the different lectureship models.
Specialised Lectureships
Specialised Lectureships focus on German-related topics in other disciplines. These lecturers are deployed in specialised fields such as law, economics, or history and convey images of Germany in the respective subject context. As a specialised lecturer, you might teach German law to foreign law students or German economic history to foreign economics students. You contribute to conveying a nuanced and up-to-date image of Germany in the respective specialised fields. In France, for instance, DAAD lecturers are integrated into German studies departments but also teach in LEA programmes.
iC Lectureships
iC Lectureships manage information centres (iC) in cooperation with the Goethe-Institut. These lecturers coordinate information activities and oversee and manage the information centre. As an iC lecturer, you are the contact person for all questions regarding studying and research in Germany. You organise informational events, advise students and researchers, and maintain contacts with German universities and research institutions. The DAAD information for foreign lecturers describes the roles of iC lecturers in more detail.
Lectureships for German and European Studies
In addition to the aforementioned models, there are also Lectureships for German and European Studies. These programmes offer an in-depth exploration of German and European topics. As a lecturer in German and European studies, you might teach German history, politics, or culture. You contribute to conveying a comprehensive understanding of Germany and Europe and promoting intercultural dialogue.
Becoming a DAAD Lecturer: Tips for a Successful Application
The application process for a DAAD lecturership is demanding, but with proper preparation and the right documentation, you can significantly improve your chances of a successful application. It is important to thoroughly research the general application requirements and the specific requirements of each position in advance. Careful preparation and a convincing application are the keys to success.
General Application Requirements
The formal criteria include a completed university degree (German studies/DaF or related subjects) as well as experience in the higher education sector. In addition, intercultural skills, didactic abilities, and the ability to work independently are advantageous. Some positions also require specific language skills or expertise. The DAAD advertisements contain detailed information on the respective requirements.
Application Documents and Deadlines
Important documents include a cover letter, CV, and certificates. The cover letter should convincingly present your motivation for applying for a DAAD lecturership and highlight your professional and personal qualifications. Your CV should document your previous experience in the higher education sector and your intercultural skills. It is important to tailor your application to the specific requirements of the university. The DAAD website provides an overview of current vacancies and application deadlines.
Selection Process and Committee
The selection process can vary depending on the host university. In some cases, the selection is made by a German-French commission, such as in France. The DAAD makes a preselection of candidates, who are then chosen by the host university. It is important to inform yourself about the selection process in advance and prepare accordingly. The DAAD office in Paris provides information about the selection process in France.
Financial Security and Support: Take Advantage of DAAD Assistance
The DAAD offers you as a lecturer comprehensive financial and organizational support to ease your stay abroad and ensure your work is successful. This support includes both financial benefits and organizational assistance before, during, and after your lecturing assignment. The DAAD is your reliable partner throughout your stay abroad.
Financial Benefits
The financial benefits include a monthly allowance and additional subsidies for preparatory seminars and language courses, for example. The monthly allowance is intended to cover your living expenses in the host country. The subsidies for preparatory seminars and language courses are meant to help you prepare effectively for your time abroad. The exact terms of the financial benefits are detailed in the DAAD information for lecturers abroad.
Organizational Support
The DAAD provides comprehensive organizational support before and during your placement. You receive assistance in preparing for your stay abroad, such as finding accommodation and applying for visas. During your time as a lecturer, a contact person at the DAAD in Bonn is available to support you with questions and issues. The DAAD website offers extensive information about organizational support.
Prospects after the Lectureship
The DAAD also supports you with the reintegration into the German job market after your lecturing assignment. You can apply for a bridging allowance and a returnee scholarship to ease the transition. It is important to establish and maintain professional contacts during your lectureship to facilitate professional reintegration. Lecturer jobs are diverse and offer interesting career prospects.
From Vietnam to France: DAAD Lectureships in Action Worldwide
The DAAD Lectorship Programme operates globally and supports the German language and culture in numerous countries. The focus and activities of the lecturers vary depending on the region and the needs of the respective host university. A look at the DAAD lecturerships in different regions reveals the diversity and scope of the programme.
Vietnam and Laos
In Vietnam and Laos, the focus is on German as a Foreign Language (DaF), teacher training, and Germanic linguistics/literature. The DAAD lecturers work closely with universities such as HUST, VNU-ULIS Hanoi, NUOL, and USSH. They offer language courses, conduct examinations (TestDaF, TestAS, OnSET), and organise cultural events. The DAAD lecturers in Vietnam play a crucial role in promoting academic exchange between Vietnam and Germany.
France
In France, DAAD lecturers are integrated into German studies departments and teach in LEA programmes. They advise students on DAAD scholarships and support academic exchange. The DAAD branch office in Paris coordinates the lecturing programme in France and supports the lecturers in their work.
Intercultural competence and networking: Success factors for lecturers
Alongside professional expertise, intercultural competence and the ability to network are crucial success factors for being an effective DAAD lecturer. The adaptability and openness to other cultures are essential for navigating life in the host country and building a trusting relationship with both students and colleagues. The ability to establish and maintain contacts is important for professional reintegration after the lecturing position.
Intercultural Competence
Intercultural competence is of great significance for the role of a lecturer. You must be capable of adjusting to the cultural peculiarities of the host country and responding sensitively to the needs of students. The ability to avoid misunderstandings and resolve conflicts is also important. The DAAD website provides information and resources for intercultural preparation.
Networking
Networking is another key success factor for DAAD lecturers. It is important to build and maintain contacts, both in the host country and in Germany. These contacts can assist you with professional reintegration after the lecturing stint. Take advantage of opportunities to attend conferences and workshops to engage with other academics and experts. The lecturing training can help improve your networking skills.
Adjusting to the Needs of the Host University
It is important to adapt to the specific requirements of the host university. Research the teaching focus and regional expertise of the university in advance. Tailor your application and teaching materials to meet the students' needs. The DAAD tenders contain detailed information about the respective requirements.
Find DAAD Lectorship: Use current announcements and portals
To find a DAAD lectureship, you should use the central points of contact for calls for applications and regularly stay informed about new opportunities. The DAAD website and newsletter offer you a comprehensive overview of current teaching positions, lectureships, and language assistantships. It is important to observe the application deadlines and carefully prepare the application documents.
Central Points of Contact for Calls for Applications
The DAAD website is the central point of contact for calls for applications in the DAAD lectureship program. Here you will find current offers for teaching positions, lectureships, and language assistantships. The DAAD newsletter keeps you regularly informed about new calls for applications. It is advisable to subscribe to the newsletter so as not to miss any important information.
Application Portal
For applying for a DAAD lectureship, use the DAAD application portal. It is recommended to use a desktop computer for accessing the portal, as mobile usage may be limited. In the portal, you will find detailed information on the application modalities and required documents. The DAAD scholarship database provides further information on the application process.
International career with DAAD lectureship: Your next step
More useful links
On the DAAD website, you will find detailed information about the DAAD Lectureship Programme, its goals, and opportunities.
The DAAD Scholarship Database offers a comprehensive overview of various funding opportunities for students and researchers.
The page of the DAAD Lecturers in Vietnam provides insights into the specific tasks and activities of DAAD lecturers in Vietnam.
The DAAD Office in Paris provides information about the lectureship programme in France and the associated selection procedures.
FAQ
What exactly does a DAAD lecturer do?
A DAAD lecturer teaches German as a Foreign Language (DaF) at a foreign university, promotes German language and culture, and advises students on study opportunities in Germany. They are an important component of academic exchange.
Who can apply for a DAAD lectureship?
The program primarily targets young university lecturers and early-career researchers with a university degree in German studies, DaF, or a related field. Intercultural skills and the ability to implement projects independently are also important.
What different types of DAAD lectureships are there?
There are several models, including regular lectureships (focus on language teaching), subject-specific lectureships (German-related topics in other disciplines), and iC-lectureships (managing information centres). The choice depends on your interests and qualifications.
How long does a DAAD lectureship last?
The duration varies, but typically ranges from 2 to 5 years. Some positions, particularly in France, last 4-5 years.
What financial benefits does the DAAD offer?
The DAAD provides a monthly allowance, grants for preparation seminars and language courses, and support for reintegration into the German job market after the lectureship.
Where can I find current calls for DAAD lectureships?
The DAAD website is the primary resource for listings. Subscribe to the DAAD newsletter to be regularly informed about new opportunities.
What is the application process like?
The application process includes a cover letter, a CV, and certificates. The selection process may vary depending on the host university. In some cases, selection is made by a German-French commission.
What are the benefits of a DAAD lectureship for my career?
A DAAD lectureship allows you to gain international experience, enhance your intercultural skills, and establish valuable contacts. This can lead to improved career prospects and salary increases.
