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Faculty of Philology :
Institute of Theatre Studies
In order to fill a fixed-term position in full-time (39.83 hours/week) starting April, 01 2027, we are looking for a
Postdoctoral Research Assistant at the Institute of Theatre Studies (100% TVL13) for an initial period of three years
The Institute of Theatre Studies at Ruhr University Bochum is one of the largest in the German-speaking world. Located in a former industrial region undergoing structural change, the Institute is characterised by close cooperation with neighbouring theatres and institutions, as well as intensive research activity. Its research and teaching cover the entire spectrum of the performing arts.
The successful candidate (m/f/x) will be required to deliver courses focusing on theatre history within the BA and MA programmes in ‘Theatre Studies and Performance Studies’, conduct examinations and participate in the Institute’s self-governance. There is also the opportunity for further academic qualification. The successful candidate (m/f/x) will have extensive knowledge of theatre studies, particularly theatre and cultural history. Knowledge of performance studies would also be an advantage. Teaching experience is required; international experience is also desirable. Please submit a brief outline of a research project (5 pages) and a writing sample (e.g. dissertation chapter or essay) of approximately 30 pages with your application.
Scope: full-time
Duration: fixed-term, 3 Jahre
Start: starting April, 01 2027
Apply by: 2026-10-10
Your tasks:
- A high level of commitment to teaching (currently 4 SWS) and an interest in interdisciplinary issues.
- Research work aimed at further professional development.
- Subject to meeting the relevant requirements, supervising Bachelor's theses and assessing the corresponding examination papers.
Contributing to the organisation and self-governance of the institute.
Your profile:
Profile (key points):
- Completed PhD in Theatre Studies, Performance Studies or a related subject
- Teaching experience
- A research focus on historical theatre forms and performative practices from the perspective of contemporary theoretical development. Expertise in historiographical methods, particularly with regard to research into colonial history, gender roles and the political and social function of theatre, is desirable. Approaches that critically examine Eurocentric systems of knowledge and incorporate transcultural perspectives are also desirable.
- Proficiency in German (at least B1 level).
We offer:
Challenging and varied tasks with a high level of independence, Collaboration in a committed and appreciative team, Support in combining family life and work (including childcare arrangements/holiday offers/mobile playroom)
Further information:
The position is salaried and based on the collective agreement of the Länder (TV-L). If the personal and collective agreement requirements are met, the employee will receive pay grade E13 TV-L.
Further information can be found at (in German).
The place of work is Ruhr University Bochum.
The load of teaching will be calculated according to § 3 of Lehrverpflichtungsverordnung (state of North Rhine-Westphalia).
RUB sees itself as a university with an international presence. The campus languages are German and English. Competence in at least one of the two languages and the willingness to learn the other are a prerequisite. RUB provides corresponding free courses for employees.
German language courses are offered by the University Language Center (ZFA) in the field of German as a Foreign Language (DaF). https://www.daf.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/daf/mitarbeitende/index.html.en
The Staff Council has the right to participate in all selection interviews. At the request of a candidate (m/f/x), it will ensure its participation in the entire procedure. Please contact wpr@rub.de.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum is one of Germany’s leading research universities, addressing the whole range of academic disciplines. A highly dynamic setting enables researchers and students to work across the traditional boundaries of academic subjects and faculties. To create knowledge networks within and beyond the university is Ruhr-Universität Bochum’s declared aim.
The Ruhr-Universität Bochum stands for diversity and equal opportunities. For this reason, we favour a working environment composed of heterogeneous teams, and seek to promote the careers of individuals who are underrepresented in our respective professional areas. The Ruhr-Universität Bochum expressly requests job applications from women. In areas in which they are underrepresented they will be given preference in the case of equivalent qualifications with male candidates. Applications from individuals with disabilities are most welcome.
Contact persons for further information:
Prof. Joern Etzold Tel.: +49 234 32 2670
Prof. Dorota Sajewska
Travel costs, accommodation costs and loss of earnings or other application costs for job interviews can unfortunately not be reimbursed.
We look forward to receiving your application via our online application portal by 2026-10-10. Please make sure to mention the reference number ANR 5987.
RUHR-UNIVERSITÄT BOCHUM
44801 Bochum
Universitätsstraße 150
SOCIAL MEDIA