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[anon in teutonia]

Dear Those Who Might Know,

Can anyone fill me in on the exact meaning of the German phrase 'die üblichen Unterlagen' (the 'usual materials') for a job application? I've been in German academia as a guest for awhile and am somewhat embarrassed to admit that I don't know this.

The post in question is a W2 (formerly: C3) position in the arts/humanities. I presume the usual materials include some sort of list of publications (Schriftenverzeichnis) and a CV. But what about recommendations? And what kind of cover letter do hiring committees like to read? If it helps: I have a (good but recent) American PhD and publishing/teaching experience in both Germany and the English-speaking world.  A formal 'Habilitation' seems not to be required for this particular position.

Many thanks, vielen Dank, in advance.

a in t

[%sig%]

[David Hyder]

anon in teutonia wrote:

> Dear Those Who Might Know,
>
> Can anyone fill me in on the exact meaning of the German
> phrase 'die üblichen Unterlagen' (the 'usual materials') for a
> job application? I've been in German academia as a guest for
> awhile and am somewhat embarrassed to admit that I don't know
> this.
>

This means: CV, list of courses taught, list of publications, and, at some stage in the process, notarised copies of your diplomas. Recommendations are not necessary at this point, nor are publications (these may be requested as you move through the process).

The cover letter should explain in some (but not too much) detail, why you are a strong candidate for the position (what your research has to do with the denomination of the job). It's also worth mentioning what your current and future research will concern.

I should add that a Habilitation is generally no longer (formally) required; however a largish chunk of research beyond the PhD (the so-called "second book" or its equivalent) is generally expected for any Professorship.

Hope this helps,

David Hyder

> The post in question is a W2 (formerly: C3) position in the
> arts/humanities. I presume the usual materials include some
> sort of list of publications (Schriftenverzeichnis) and a CV.
> But what about recommendations? And what kind of cover letter
> do hiring committees like to read? If it helps: I have a (good
> but recent) American PhD and publishing/teaching experience in
> both Germany and the English-speaking world.  A formal
> 'Habilitation' seems not to be required for this particular
> position.
>
> Many thanks, vielen Dank, in advance.
>
> a in t
>