Doing a postdoc in Berlin offers international researchers a range of exciting options across universities, research institutes and industry actors. At universities, postdoctoral positions are typically focused on research, teaching and building academic independence, often as part of a professorial chair or third-party funded project. These roles are stepping stones toward a professorship or other academic leadership position and generally consist of limited-term employment contracts.

Postdoc roles can take on many forms, though the most common are:

• Research Associate (Wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter) position for a university- or third-party funded project
• Junior research group leader (commonly with third-party funding)
• Postdoc fellowship for independent research (commonly with third-party funding)
• Obtaining a habilitation (higher teaching qualification)

Eligibility requirements vary depending on the role or program, though a completed PhD with good standing and a record of publications and conference proceedings are generally prerequisites. For some opportunities, you will need to secure your own host institution and prepare a research proposal to apply for funding. Postdocs in Germany benefit from strong social security, competitive salaries and structured application and career development processes. The institutions of the Berlin University Alliance offer a wealth of postdoc opportunities that serve as a gateway to building a successful research career in Berlin and beyond and the BUA Postdoc Academy can support you along the way.