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Research Assistant (m/w/d), EG 13 TV-H - Job Opportunity at Universität Kassel

Kassel, Germany
Part-time
Mid-level
Posted: July 25, 2025
On-site
EUR 35,000-42,000 per year (based on EG 13 TV-H pay scale at 50% position, which typically ranges from EUR 70,000-84,000 for full-time equivalent in German public universities)

Benefits

Comprehensive public service employment package including additional company pension (VBL) providing long-term financial security beyond standard retirement benefits
Family-friendly university environment with emergency childcare services and child supplement allowances under TV-Hessen, supporting work-life balance for academic professionals
Annual performance bonus system recognizing contribution to research and academic excellence
Capital-accumulation benefits program enabling employees to build wealth through employer-supported savings schemes
Free public transportation access reducing commuting costs and supporting sustainable mobility
Subsidized university sports facilities and comprehensive Unifit wellness programs promoting physical and mental health
Professional development opportunities through interdisciplinary training measures enhancing career advancement
Workplace health management programs addressing the specific needs of academic research professionals

Key Responsibilities

Lead independent evidence-based research initiatives in foreign language teaching methodologies, directly contributing to the advancement of English didactics and establishing expertise in specialized academic domains
Drive empirical data collection and analysis in educational settings, generating publishable research outcomes that influence policy and practice in inclusive language education
Spearhead development and implementation of innovative teaching formats and instructional interventions, creating scalable solutions for diverse learning environments in special needs education
Design and deliver specialized academic courses focusing on inclusion in English language teaching, directly impacting future educator preparation and professional development
Orchestrate high-profile academic events including conferences and symposia, building professional networks and enhancing institutional reputation in the field
Contribute to strategic academic governance and curriculum development, influencing the direction of English didactics education at the institutional level

Requirements

Education

Master's degree in English teaching/TESOL, English studies with focus on foreign language teaching research, or equivalent M.Sc./M.Ed./M.A. in second language acquisition, multilingualism, applied linguistics, TESOL, or Educational Psychology

Experience

Demonstrated research experience through publications and/or conference presentations, preferably with practical or conceptual experience in inclusive education and teacher training for special needs education

Required Skills

Substantial knowledge of main areas of Research on Foreign Language Teaching and Learning: English Didactics Proven practical or conceptual experience in the field of inclusive education, preferably in the context of teacher training for special needs education (L5) Experience in working with schools, centers for practical teacher training or other school-related or school-affiliated institutions Ability and interest in dealing with heterogeneous learning conditions Ability to work in a team, reliability, structure and a high degree of independence in completing tasks as well as enjoyment in working with different groups of people Strong organizational and coordination skills, e.g., experience in supporting the preparation and organization of academic conferences Excellent communication skills, as well as well-developed presentation and facilitation competencies, along with a thorough and diligent working style
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Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The field of English language teaching is experiencing a significant shift toward evidence-based pedagogical approaches, with increasing emphasis on psycholinguistic research to inform classroom practice. This trend reflects the broader movement in education toward data-driven decision making and the integration of cognitive science findings into language acquisition theory. Universities are prioritizing research positions that can bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical application in multilingual and inclusive educational contexts. Inclusive education and special needs pedagogy are becoming central to language teaching programs across European institutions, driven by policy mandates for educational equity and the growing recognition of neurodiversity in learning environments. This has created increased demand for researchers who can develop and validate teaching methodologies specifically designed for learners with diverse cognitive profiles and learning differences. The integration of multilingualism research with teacher training programs represents a growing area of academic focus, particularly in regions with significant linguistic diversity. German universities are investing heavily in positions that can address the challenges of teaching English as a foreign language in contexts where students may already be managing multiple languages, reflecting broader European educational policies promoting multilingual competence.

Role Significance

The position involves working within a specialized research chair team of approximately 3-5 researchers, with collaboration across broader departmental networks of 15-20 faculty members in English and American Studies, plus extensive interaction with external school partners and teacher training institutions
This is a mid-level academic research position with significant autonomy and responsibility for independent research projects, positioned as a qualification role for PhD completion with potential for career advancement within the German university system. The role carries substantial influence in shaping institutional approaches to inclusive English language teaching and contributes directly to policy and practice in special needs education.

Key Projects

Development and validation of empirically-based teaching interventions for English language learners with attention and learning deficits, involving longitudinal studies across multiple educational settings Creation of evidence-based teacher training curricula for special needs education (L5 certification), including the design of assessment tools and pedagogical frameworks that can be implemented across German teacher education programs Coordination of multi-institutional research initiatives examining cognitive factors in foreign language acquisition, potentially involving international collaborations and large-scale data collection across diverse linguistic communities

Success Factors

The ability to successfully navigate the intersection of rigorous empirical research methodology and practical educational application, requiring both statistical analysis competencies and deep understanding of classroom dynamics in inclusive settings. Success depends on building credible research programs that generate both academic publications and actionable insights for practitioners. Excellence in cross-cultural communication and stakeholder management, as the role requires effective collaboration with school administrators, teacher training institutions, and diverse student populations. The position demands cultural sensitivity and the ability to translate complex research findings into accessible professional development materials. Strategic thinking and project management capabilities to coordinate multiple research initiatives simultaneously while maintaining quality standards for academic publication. Success requires the ability to identify research gaps in the field and develop innovative methodological approaches that advance both theoretical understanding and practical outcomes.

Market Demand

High demand due to the specialized intersection of English didactics, inclusive education, and empirical research methodology, with limited qualified candidates possessing the specific combination of psycholinguistic research skills and practical teaching experience in special needs contexts

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Empirical research methodology and statistical analysis capabilities are essential for conducting rigorous studies that meet international publication standards and contribute meaningfully to the evidence base in language acquisition research. These skills directly determine the impact and credibility of research outcomes. Deep understanding of cognitive and psycholinguistic factors in language learning is crucial for developing theoretically grounded interventions that address the specific needs of learners with diverse cognitive profiles. This expertise forms the foundation for all research and practical applications in the role. Cross-cultural communication and collaboration skills are vital for working effectively with diverse stakeholder groups including students with special needs, educational practitioners, and international research partners. These skills determine the practical impact and real-world application of research findings.

Beneficial Skills

Familiarity with educational technology and digital learning platforms would enhance the development of innovative teaching interventions and expand research possibilities in technology-enhanced language learning environments Knowledge of additional European languages beyond English and German would provide valuable insights into multilingual acquisition processes and enable broader research collaborations across European educational contexts Experience with grant writing and research funding applications would support the development of larger-scale research initiatives and enhance career advancement opportunities in competitive academic environments

Unique Aspects

This position uniquely combines cutting-edge psycholinguistic research with direct application in special needs education, offering rare opportunity to influence both academic theory and educational practice in the rapidly evolving field of inclusive language teaching
The role provides exceptional access to diverse research settings including both laboratory-based cognitive studies and real-world classroom interventions, enabling comprehensive research programs that bridge experimental psychology and applied linguistics
The position offers unusual depth of engagement with German teacher certification systems (particularly L5 special needs education), providing insights into European approaches to inclusive education that are increasingly influential in international educational policy

Career Growth

3-5 years for progression to postdoctoral or junior faculty positions upon PhD completion, with potential for permanent academic appointment within 7-10 years given the specialized nature of the expertise and growing institutional demand

Potential Next Roles

Postdoctoral Research Fellow or Assistant Professor positions in Applied Linguistics or TESOL departments at major universities, leveraging the specialized expertise in inclusive language education Senior Research Scientist roles in educational research institutes or government agencies focused on language policy and special needs education Academic leadership positions such as Chair or Director of English Didactics programs, building on the experience in curriculum development and teacher training

Company Overview

Universität Kassel

Universität Kassel is a comprehensive public research university established in 1971, serving approximately 22,000 students across diverse academic disciplines. The institution has built a strong reputation in interdisciplinary research and maintains particular strength in applied sciences, environmental studies, and educational research, with growing recognition for innovative approaches to inclusive education and multilingual pedagogy.

The university ranks among Germany's mid-tier public institutions with strong regional influence and growing international recognition in specialized research areas. It is particularly well-regarded for its practical approach to academic research and its commitment to addressing real-world educational challenges through evidence-based solutions.
Located in the heart of Germany with excellent transportation connections, the university serves as a key educational and research hub for the Hesse region while maintaining strong partnerships with international institutions. The location provides access to diverse multilingual communities and educational systems, creating ideal conditions for language acquisition research.
The university fosters a collaborative, interdisciplinary research environment that emphasizes practical application of academic findings. The culture supports early-career researchers through mentorship programs and encourages innovative approaches to traditional academic challenges, particularly in the integration of technology and inclusive practices in education.
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