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Academic career opportunities

Excellent research and working conditions for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers.

Photo: UHH/Vogiatzis

Universität Hamburg not only provides you with excellent research and working conditions it also sets standards with a broad spectrum of measures aimed at boosting research and academic career opportunities.

As part of the University’s excellence strategy these measures are consolidated under the heading Hanseatic Academic Career, following the principle of Recruiting—Fostering—Retaining in addition to the hitherto predominant Fostering—Advancing—Transferring career approach. Find below further information on your next career steps at UHH.

Attractive Careers in Research, Teaching and Higher Education Management

Photo: UHH/Esfandiari

Tenure-Track Professorship

Prof. Dr. Elisa Linseisen is a tenure-track professor of digital audiovisual media at Universität Hamburg. In this short interview, we learn more about Prof. Linseisen and her motives.

Photo: Holube

Fast-Track Doctoral Program

Katharina Holube is one of the first doctoral researchers in the Fast-Track Program at Universität Hamburg. In the interview below, we introduce her and the opportunities the Fast-Track Program program affords.

Photo: UHH/Feuerböther

Research and Higher Education Management

Dr. Katrin Seelhorst works in the office of the dean for the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences. Below, we introduce her and her work in research and higher education management.

Photo: UHH/Göttling

Research Assistant for Teaching (WiMiLe)

Dr. Patrick Grommes is a research assistant with teaching duties at Universität Hamburg. He talks about his work in a short interview.

Postdoctoral Fellowship

Dr. Eline Gerritsen holds a postdoctoral fellowship at Universität Hamburg in the Institute of Philosophy.

Junior Research Group Leader

Dr. Hannah-Lena Hagemann heads a junior research group in the Asia-Africa-Institute at Universität Hamburg. Below she explains what her work means to her.

Prospective Doctoral Researchers

Do you want to do a doctorate? Read through all the information you need about the many ways to do a doctorate at Universität Hamburg.

Step-by-step toward your Doctorate

What does doing a doctorate involve? Where do you begin, and how do supervision, funding, and admission work? Read below for a step-by-step overview of doing a doctorate.

Doctorate at UHH

From initial information to specific support and networking opportunities during your doctorate: Universität Hamburg and its faculties and central institutions offer you a wide range of services related to your doctoral thesis.

Fast-Track Doctorate

The fast-track doctorate combines a master’s and doctoral program. It is especially designed for research-oriented bachelor’s students. Find out more.

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Admissions to Doctoral Studies

Once you have thought about a doctoral topic, supervision, and, if necessary, funding sources, take a look at the admission requirements for doctoral studies.

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Doctoral Phase

Universität Hamburg offers various kinds of support as you pursue a doctorate. In addition to individual advice, workshops, and networking activities, the University also lends support if you have individual concerns or challenges.

Photo: UHH/Möller

Career Development and Fostering Talent

Universität Hamburg’s HR Development fosters your professional development, whether you want to advance in your current position or strive for a different one.

Hamburg Research Academy

The Hamburg Research Academy provides support and services to doctoral students at Hamburg universities. It provides further qualifications, networking opportunities, and advice as you pursue your career.

Photo: HRA/Olsdorf

Postdoctoral Phase

Staff members with a doctorate can find excellent working and research conditions at Universität Hamburg. Innovative careers can mean individual career development. Many institutions can also support you as your career progresses, whether within or outside academia.

Postdocs at UHH

Universität Hamburg offers postdoctoral researchers a variety of attractive career paths. The guiding principles of our appointment and career system are "promote – qualify – change" and "attract – promote – retain". .

Photo: UHH/von Wieding

The Hamburg Research Academy supports postdoctoral researchers at Hamburg universities. It provides further qualifications, networking opportunities, and advice as you pursue your career.

Photo: HRA/Wied

HR Development at Universität Hamburg

HR Development at Universität Hamburg offers all University employees opportunities in the areas of leadership, cooperation, career development, and advanced training and continuing education.

Early Career Researchers

The Early Career Researchers office offers support and advice when you apply for external funding and throughout the doctoral and postdoctoral phases. You can also find helpful staff members here if you apply for travel expense subsidies.

Junior Research Groups and W1 Professorships

A junior research group or a W1 professorship with or without tenure provide the best conditions for further success in academia. Universität Hamburg and its researchers are highly successful in both areas and enjoy the support of various institutions that are also happy to help you.

Applying for a Junior Research Group

The Support for Doctoral and Early Career Researchers section at Universität Hamburg can help you if you apply for a junior research group or wish to become involved in one at Universität Hamburg.

W1 Professorship at Universität Hamburg

The W1 professorship prepares you for a W2/W3 professorship at another university. Following a successful second evaluation, a W1 professorship with tenure leads to a tenured position at Universität Hamburg. Contact the Professorial Appointments Unit for more information.

Photo: UHH/vonWieding

Coaching and Advice

HR Development at Universität Hamburg offers junior research group heads and W1 professors comprehensive coaching and support.

Further Career Paths

If you wish to work in research and higher education management after you complete a doctorate or postdoctoral phase, or if you are interested in the nonuniversity labor market, Universität Hamburg offers various types of support.

Careers in Research and HE Management

Research funding, degree program planning, or higher education strategy— if you wish to work in academic and research and higher education managements after you do your doctorate, HR Development can help you via the Research and Higher Education Management program.

Founding and Innovating

Universität Hamburg’s Start-Up Service supports you in your plans, from idea to starting up. The team has extensive expertise and advising experience.

Non-University Careers

For doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, the Hamburg Research Academy and the Career Center cooperate to offer information, workshops, and advising services to facilitate your start in a nonuniversity career.

Professorships at a HAW/FH

If you have done a doctorate, a professorship at a university of applied sciences could be an attractive career goal. This position requires 5 years of professional experience, of which at least 3 must have been completed in an nonuniversity area.

Career-related Events and Activities

Our calendar posts various events and activities related to research, academic, and other career opportunities for prospective and enrolled doctoral researchers and postdoctoral researchers at Universität Hamburg. Enjoy!

More Advising Offers

Universität Hamburg provides support if, for example, you are a researcher from abroad who wishes to come to the University, have questions about shaping the supervising relationship, have questions about family obligations, or if you need individual advice.

Internal Offers and Information

Members of Universität Hamburg can access the Staff Service Portal for the offers below. The University Administration’s Staff Service Portal includes information about the workplace, purchasing, business-related travel, HR services, and more.

Stay in the Loop

Many institutions at Universität Hamburg have newsletters with information about their services for the phase between considering a doctorate and taking on a W1 professorship. Sign up here for the newsletter you would like to receive.

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Prospective international PhD students

You are a postgraduate, have earned a university degree from an international higher education institution, and plan to do your doctoral studies at the faculty of law at universität hamburg..

To obtain a doctorate, students at the Faculty of Law conduct independent research and present their work in a doctoral dissertation. At the end of their studies, doctoral students must defend their doctoral dissertation in an oral examination. Generally, doctoral students can either create an individual plan or pursue studies within a structured program. General information on doctoral opportunities offered at Universität Hamburg can be found here .

Individual doctoral studies continue to be the most common form of obtaining a doctorate in Germany and at the Faculty of Law at Universität Hamburg. In this model, doctoral students work largely independently on their dissertation topic under the supervision of a professor. This allows for a great deal of freedom and flexibility, but also requires a significant degree of personal initiative and responsibility. Before beginning their studies, doctoral students first look for a supervising professor for their dissertation topic. Supervision is based on an individual agreement between the doctoral student and professor.

At the Faculty of Law at Universität Hamburg, students may also obtain a doctorate in a structured doctoral program. In these programs, the doctoral students and their research are integrated into a wider academic framework. These doctoral degree programs at the Faculty of Law at Universität Hamburg have an interdisciplinary and in some cases an international focus. They offer a framework for doctoral students to discuss their research and a broad range of opportunities for students to acquire additional qualifications in the field. Doctoral students in structured programs are often supervised by teams made up of several professors involved in the program.

The Albrecht Mendelssohn Bartholdy Graduate School (AMBSL) developed its curriculum based on the Faculty's two key research areas (research area 1: National and international market economy and governance—legal regulation under the conditions of economization and globalization; research area 2: The limits of law—the legal challenges of social and technological change). Research projects within structured doctoral training are not limited to the Faculty's key research areas, but may focus on any areas within law and its subdisciplines. The AMBSL helps applicants find suitable supervisors for their research project.

For more information about the Albrecht Mendelssohn Bartholdy Graduate School of Law and funding opportunities, please visit their website .

The European Doctorate in Law and Economics (EDLE) is an international doctoral program offered jointly by Universität Hamburg, the University of Bologna, and Erasmus University Rotterdam. The objective of the program is to train doctoral students at the highest academic level in the field of law and economics. Prospective doctors of law will be in the position to competently participate in academic discourse in this research field. More information about the European Doctorate in Law and Economics can be found here . ( http://www.edle-phd.eu/ )

The research training group The Economics of the Internationalisation of the Law focuses on the application of methods and concepts of economic analysis to international law and the way this interacts with national legal norms. More information on The Economics of the Internationalisation of the Law research training group can be found here (in German only).

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Doctoral studies

Do you plan to continue your education with doctoral studies.

Doing a doctorate is an important step in an academic career. Doctoral studies demonstrate the capacity for in-depth scientific and scholarly work through independent research activities. At the Faculty of Humanities, you can do a doctorate independently or within the framework of a structured program . 

The following pages will guide you in doing a doctorate at the Faculty of Humanities. They also provide information about important formalities, from the search for supervisor and admission to doctoral studies to the oral defense. We answer questions such as:

• What are the admission requirements?  
• Should I pursue individual doctoral studies or attend a structured program?
• How do I apply for admission to doctoral studies?
• Do I have to enroll?
• How long does it take to get a doctorate?
• How do I submit my dissertation and what happens then?

New online tool for doctoral procedures: Docata

Since September 11, 2023, doctoral procedures in the Faculty of Humanities are administered exclusively via Docata . The online tool for doctoral studies at UHH enables simplified administrative channels and information throughout the entire doctoral phase. Please submit your application for admission to the doctoral program exclusively via Docata as of September 11, 2023.

For more information on Docata, please see the FAQ .

Contact and office hours

The Doctoral Studies Office of the Faculty is available by phone or email to address any concerns:

• Tel.: 040 42838-8284 or -9882
• Email:  promotionsbuero.gw "AT" uni-hamburg.de

Personal consultation hours without appointment:

• wednesdays from 10 to 12

For thesis submission or ersonal consultation outside office hours, please make an appointment in advance by phone or email.

Doctoral committee

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Yvonne Schulz Zinda

Deputy Chair

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Joan Bleicher

Doctoral Studies Office of the Faculty (Dr. phil.)

Doctoral studies office of the department of protestant theology (dr. theol.), meeting dates of the doctoral committee in 2024:.

• 31 January 2024
• 24 April 2024
• 19 June 2024
• 17 July 2024
• 11 September 2024
• 30 October 2024
• 04 December 2024

Please submit applications to the doctoral studies office at least 3 weeks prior to the meeting dates.

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Doctoral studies

After having been admitted as a doctoral student at the University of Hamburg Business School, the Business School welcomes you to its Graduate School of Business Administration (GSBA) ( charter [PDF] (in German only)).

For doctoral researchers, the following regulations apply:

• The doctoral degree regulations of 10 April 2024 (in German only), and
• the academic regulations for the structured doctoral degree program Research in Business Administration from 10 July 2024 [PDF] (in German only).

The graduate program at the Graduate School of Business Administration (GSBA) encourages members to complete a total of 32 credit points (CP) during their doctorate (§§ 4, 5 of above Academic Regulations). After successful completion of the doctorate, graduates receive the title “Dr. rer. oec.”:

• Graduates who have also successfully completed the above-mentioned 32 CP receive a “Certificate of Research in Business Administration.”
• Graduates who completed equally or more than 12 CP but less than 32 CP according to § 1, 3 a of the prevailing doctoral degree regulations obtain the doctorate, but do not receive a certificate.

All processes in the programs are administered through DOCATA. Please login on a regular basis to check your emails, or you may miss out on important information. Amongst others, the following documents are to be uploaded through DOCATA:

• consent to supervision,
• proposal for the examination commission, and

We present a yearly information meeting for interested students heading for a doctorate or already studying in it, the latest presentation dates 21 November 2024.

Please thoroughly read the following steps BEFORE using DOCATA .

Please follow the steps for entering and completing your doctoral studies chronologically . 

Doctoral programs

I. pre-requisites for being accepted into the program.

• a master's degree at a university with a grade point average of 2.5 or better, and
• at least 300 ECTS (the University of Hamburg Business School's doctoral committee can decide on exceptions); and
• you confirm that you have not submitted your dissertation topic for a doctorate elsewhere.
• You confirm that you will comply with the Bylaws for Safeguarding Good Scientific Practice and Avoiding Scientific Misconduct at Universität Hamburg [PDF] (in German only). 
• Your language level in German or English is C1 or above. Candidates with a native language that is neither German nor English should attach proof of language proficiency (certificate from a recognized language test).

II. Admission to the University of Hamburg Business School

Important note: You must be admitted by the Business School, before you can enrol at University of Hamburg!

 You may apply for a doctorate at any time of the year. Please apply for admission within a maximum of three months after having started your doctoral studies. The semester contribution must be paid in full for each full or part semester at the University of Hamburg Business School.

• You are free to choose and are responsible for finding two university professors to supervise your doctoral project, at least one of whom teaches at the University of Hamburg Business School . Both supervisors and you sign (scanned signatures) the Consent to Supervision .
• In DOCATA  (the doctoral program management website) you complete the Application for Admission for the University of Hamburg Business School, you state "membership in the Graduate School" at University of Hamburg Business School.
• the Consent to Supervision (see point 1.),
• an up-to-date, signed CV,
• your master’s degree certificate, and
• a language certificate, if applicable;
• you upload the application and all required attachments in DOCATA.

The Doctoral Committee reviews your application, and decides whether or not to admit you as doctoral student. In DOCATA, you will receive email notification on the Committee’s decision, either:

• that you are admitted to University of Hamburg Business School as doctoral student,
• that you are admitted to the University of Hamburg Business School as doctoral student UNDER PRE-CONDITIONS, or
• that your application for admission has been rejected.

If you are accepted (a or b), you will receive confirmation in DOCATA. If you are not already a member of Universität Hamburg, this confirmation will include a so-called B-Code (“B-Kennung”, e.g. BAY2222). This is important, as it is your personal login number for all University applications.

According to § 3, 5, certain conditions may enable admission to a “fast track” doctorate. Information thereto might be found on HRA website.

III. Enrollment at Universität Hamburg

Important notice : Admission to doctoral studies and enrolment at University of Hamburg are two different and separate processes. Under Hamburg’s Higher Education Act ( Hamburger Hochschulgesetz §§ 70 Abs. 5 ), you are required to enrol at the University to complete a doctorate.

After admission to the University of Hamburg Business School  as doctoral student has been confirmed, you need to enrol at the Campus Center (via STiNE ) . For further rules for application, please consult the website of the  Campus Center .

The enrolment has to last from the starting date of your admission throughout the semester in which the disputation takes place.

IV. Doctoral Studies

The following apply:

• The  doctoral degree regulations dated 10 April 2024 (in German only), and
• the academic regulations for the structured doctoral degree program Research in Business Administration from 10 July [PDF] (in German only), and
• the latest Bylaws for Safeguarding Good Scientific Practice and Avoiding Scientific Misconduct at Universität Hamburg [PDF] (in German only).

About one year after having started your doctorate, you submit an exposé to your supervisors and discuss it. You will hold regular research meetings with your supervisors and prepare internal interim reports. In case you were admitted to doctoral studies under pre-conditions, you fulfil them prior to submitting your thesis.

You are responsible for keeping your personal data in DOCATA up-to-date, on top of separate notifications to the personnel department or Campus Center:

• Changes in your contact details or name
• Other changes, e.g. co-operative programs or faculty
• Interruptions in doctorate study time
• The three longest stays abroad (research stays or conferences)
• Termination of your doctoral studies prior to completion (i.e., withdrawal from the program)
• Parental leave, vacation, etc...

During your doctoral studies you earn credit points. To have courses acknowledged, you need to provide the following information:  

• Proof of participation
• Duration of the course (hours/days)
• Agenda/module description

Certificates that confirm "successful participation" without any further specification of the evaluation criteria cannot be accepted.

• If a form of study achievement is optional, the certificates of attendance must state the criteria for successfully completing the course.

When finishing your doctoral studies, you upload the relevant word document ( Transcript of Records (ToR) and/or a form for verification of credit points (CP) in accordance with the doctoral degree regulations ) and accompanying documentation in copy (the latter combined in a SINGLE pdf-document, in chronological order) to bwl.promotion "AT" uni-hamburg.de (see also General information of Doctoral courses ).

The acknowledgement for credits of courses at our Faculty can be found under Recognizing credits according to doctoral degree regulations of 2024 [PDF] . If you would like to have credits acknowledged for teaching, please see Recognizing credits (teaching) in doctoral degree regulations of 2024 [PDF] .

We will then check the documents you have handed in/uploaded. Where relevant, we may request further necessary documents. You will then receive confirmation on the number of credit points you have officially completed.

Together with your supervisors, you develop a procedure for data management . Your first supervisor and you sign a separate agreement on your data management system, which you upload in DOCATA when submitting your thesis.

V. Completing Doctoral Studies

As soon as you have:

• filled in your three longest stays abroad in DOCATA,
• checked your personal data in DOCATA for correctness,
• received confirmation of your study achievements (credit points, see IV. Doctoral studies ), and
• have the signed declaration on the management of your research data,

then: Please upload the following documentation in DOCATA:

• Your thesis: please send/deposit one print copy with original signature to the administration office for doctoral studies to: Admin. Office for Doctoral Studies, Moorweidenstr. 18, R. 3007, 20148 Hamburg
• You declare that the print copy of your thesis corresponds fully to the pdf-version and to all further print copies: Template of declaration (in English or German).
• t itle page (please use template) ,
• listing of your work contributions in the papers,
• summary in English and German
• affidavit (using template) .
• Proposal for the Examination Commission (in English or German): as pdf with scanned signatures. Please note that the members of the examination commission must be from University of Hamburg and that at least one must be from a different area of specialization (Schwerpunkt). In case of a cumulative dissertation, a co-author cannot act as chairperson.
• Your declaration on the management of your research data; dated and signed (scanned signatures) by you and your first supervisor, as pdf.

VI. Evaluation, oral examination

The reviewers may take up to three months to review your dissertation. If, contrary to expectations, one or both reviewers decide not to grade your dissertation, it will be returned to you with a deadline for revision. If both reviewers grade your dissertation with “summa cum laude (with distinction)” or the reviews differ in their grades, the doctoral committee appoints a third-party reviewer.

As soon as all expert reports are on-hand, the dissertation and reports are available for review for a two-week period. If any requirements are formulated during the review period, we will let you know. You will have to fulfil all conditions (if any), and the examination commission has to confirm fulfilment before the process can continue to the disputation.

At the end of the review period, we will inform you on the grading of your dissertation, and invite you to the disputation. The examination commission agrees upon this date among their members and with you. You confirm receipt of the invitation to the Office for Doctoral Studies. The chair or the doctoral student is responsible for reserving the room for the disputation.

You orally defend your research project(s).

The Examination Commission

• assigns the grade for the disputation and the overall grade,
• approves the thesis for publication, and
• issues an interim certificate to you, stating in advance the grades and your examination board. The interim certificate does not yet qualify you to use the title of “Dr. rer. oec.”.

The doctoral certificate is printed and sent to be signed off.

VII. Disputation

• issues an interim certificate to you, stating in advance the grades and your examination board. The interim certificate does not yet qualify you to use the title of "Dr. rer. oec.".

VII. Publication and filing

You publish your dissertation within one year at the State and University Library (SUB) or via a publishing house (see our information on the publication of dissertations as part of the doctoral procedure). Proof of publication is a pre-requisite for receiving the doctoral certificate. Only after having been issued with the certificate is one legally allowed to use the title “Dr. rer. oec.”.

Staats- und Universitätsbibliothek Hamburg (SUB) Hochschulschriftenbearbeitung Von-Melle-Park 3 20146 Hamburg.

Please direct all inquiries regarding publication of your thesis by e-mail to:  diss "AT" sub.uni-hamburg.de .

You acknowledge receipt of the certificate and confirm that the content of the published dissertation fully corresponds to the version reviewed.

Doctoral courses

General information

• Doctoral Degree Program students must complete at least 32 CP for the "Certificate of Research in Business Administration" (see study program regulations of the Graduate School of Business Administration/GSBA ).
• Doctoral Degree Program students must complete at least 12 credit points (CP) in doctoral courses.

In order for doctoral courses to be credited, students must submit documentation that includes the following information:

• Proof of participation
• The duration of the course (hours/days)
• The agenda/module description
• The study achievement(s) completed, e.g. own presentation, term paper, seminar paper, written examination.

If a form of study achievement is optional, the certificates of attendance must state the criteria for passing the course.

The information on recognition of credit points [PDF] will guide you on the evaluation of the courses according to the Doctoral Regulations 2024 for the University of Hamburg Business School.

The Graduate School Doctoral Degree Program is divided into three elective courses:

A.   Methodology courses.

For the "Certificate of Research in Business Administration", doctoral students must complete at least 10 CP (at least 2 of the 6 courses offered). All courses are 5 CP (2 credit hours).

B.   Specialzation courses 

For the "Certificate of Research in Business Administration", doctoral students must complete at least 10 CP (4 credit hours).

Seminars/workshops on content, methods, software, theories (general or subject-specific). Examples can be found below under Other doctoral courses at the UHH . 

C.   Supplementary courses

For the "Certificate of Research in Business Administration", doctoral students must complete at least 12 CP (2 credits awarded per course day).

Seminars/workshops from the UHH PhD qualification program ("Academic Writing", "Project Management", etc.) or  courses offered by HRA  and at least one lecture at conferences/colloquia, etc. 

Doctoral courses at the University of Hamburg Business School

A. Methodology courses

• Methodological course: Introduction to „R“ (2,5 CP): 17+18 October 2024; Dr. Clara M. Pott; registration via STINE
• Methodological course: "Machine Learning" (2,5 CP): 21-22 November 2024; Prof. Dr. Martin Spindler
• CANCELLED Winter Term 2024/25: Module "Survey Research" (5 CP): "Survey Research" (2+19 December 2024, 13 January and 3 February 2025) ; Prof. Dr. Karen Gedenk & Dr. Timo Mandler 
• Module " Econometrics " (5 CP): "Econometrics" (22-24 January 2025); Prof. Dr. Martin Spindler

B. and C. Specialization and Supplementary courses

• Specialization course (5 CP): course "Measuring quality of care based on administrative data" : 23 and 24 and 26 September 2024; Prof. Jonas Schreyögg und Prof. Tom Stargardt; registration via STINE
• Specialization course (5 CP): course "AIS SIGDITE - Digital Innovation, Transformation and Entrepreneurship" : Mondays 10 February through 14 April 2025; Prof. Youngjin Yoo und Prof. Jan Recker
• Specialization course (5 CP): course "How to publish in A-Journals" : 22+29 April + 20 May + 24 June 2025; Prof. Jan Recker
• Supplementary course (2 CP): course "Unconscious Bias in Science" (28 Oktober 2024 or 6 November 2024); Philipp Wronker
• Supplementary course (4 LP): Workshop " Literaturrecherche für Promovierende " (Search for Literature) : 14+15 November 2024; WiSo-Library
• Career Development Cycle: Career Development Program for Doctoral and Early Career Researchers
• Hamburg Research Academy:  Interdisciplinary courses   
• PIASTA:  Exchange between German and international students

External courses

Courses abroad

• IRWS International Research Workshop Methods for Ph.D. Students
• Essex Summer School
• University of Michigan: Summer Program in Quantitative Methods of Social Research
• Universtität St. Gallen: GSERM - Summer School in Empirical Research Methods
• University of Ljubljana: GSERM Ljubljana
• DART – Doctoral Program in Accounting, Reporting and Taxation

 Further doctoral programs

• VHB Doktorandenprogramm
• Courses within the PhD Network

Forms to Download

• Consent to Supervision [doc]

Study program regulations

• Doctoral Degree Regulations of 10 April 2024 [PDF]
• Academic regulations for the study program Research in Business Administration [PDF] (in German only)
• SBylaws for Safeguarding Good Scientific Practice and Avoiding Scientific Misconduct at Unisersität Hamburg [PDF] (in German only)
• Recognizing credits according to doctoral degree regulations of 2024

Completing Doctoral Studies

• Form for verification of credit points (CP) for doctoral degree regulations 2024
• Information on recognizing credit for teaching acc. to doctoral degree reg. 2024 [PDF]
• Transcript of Records (ToR)
• Proposal for Examination Board
• Sample suggestion - affidavit
• Sample suggestion - title page

Publishing your dissertation

• Publishing dissertations as part of the doctoral procedure [PDF]

Research Data Management

Guidelines on “measures taken to save the research data used in the dissertation“

The following guidelines will give you some advice on how to store the research data used in a dissertation. Each research area has its own requirements and the procedure on how to treat the data often depends on the individual data.

How is research data defined?

Research data is raw data and its different processing stages; simulation data; observation data; data from interviews; software; models; programming codes.

What do we understand by research data management?

The preparation, storing and publishing of research data. Reasons therefore are – among others – the Statutes to ensure good scientific practice and avoid scientific misconduct at the University of Hamburg [PDF] (in German only).

What information should be included in your “concept on how to save research data used in the dissertation”?

Guiding principle: unless there are legal reasons, you should document in written all sources, raw data and history of the research data processed as well as the evaluation files you used in your dissertation. They should be stored in order to enable replication of the outcome by a third party.

Data set description

•  From which source did you receive the data?
• In which analyses did you use the relevant data in your dissertation?
• Which is the data structure (e.g. units, codes…)?
• Which method of data recruitment or measurement did you use?
• Is it raw data or processed data?
• In case of processed data: which processing steps did you follow and which program did you use for this?

Own programming codes

• Which programming codes refer to which analyses?
• How did you ensure replicable use by a third party (e.g. comments in the programming code)?

Where and how do you store and save the data?

a) Place of data storage:

•  UHH network drives: procedure in case you end your work prematurely?
• Repository for research data management at UHH?
• Specific repositories for specialized research data?

b) Type of storage:

• Does the type of data format allow third parties to re-use the data (for a long term)?
• Did you save programming codes resp. data sets together with long-term saving formats used in the program (e.g. .txt, .csv …)?
• Which directory and names did you use for files and folders?

Please note: According to the Statutes to ensure good scientific practice and avoid scientific misconduct at the University of Hamburg [PDF] (in German only), you must store primary data, which you collected for your dissertation work for ten years on durable and secure data media within the institution where the data was created, unless special rules provide for an even longer storage. We recommend using the repository for research data at UHH. The storage period starts when you hand in your dissertation at the office for doctoral studies. The data blocks need to be accompanied by a descriptive file (see above section “data set description”).

Subsequent use by a third party?

• Is the re-use of the available data by a third part subject to any consent?
• How do you enable a third party to use the data (e.g. repository of research data at UHH)?
• Are Creative Commons Licences an option?

Further assistance

• Requirements of journals regarding data safety management and replicability of data (dated ....)
• Requirements of DFG specified by the Board of Economics and  Research data management in economics  (in German only)
• In addition, the Center for Sustainable Research Data Management at UHH offers open consultation hours and single sessions to clarify unanswered questions

Institutions and advisory services

Institutions

• Office of the Dean
• Doctoral committee
• Ombudsperson for the faculty's graduation matters is Prof. Dr. Henrik Sattler . His deputy is Prof. Dr. Nicola Berg.
• Board of the Graduate School

Advisory services: Conflict prevention and resolution

• The  Academic Staff Council of Universität Hamburg (WIPR) offers (confidential) advice and support for doctoral researchers in case they are having issues with their supervisor. 
• The University also offers Conflict Prevention and Resolution support. 
• The Ombudsperson also provides faculty-intern support:  Prof. Dr. Henrik Sattler  (Deputy:  Prof. Dr. Nicola Berg )

Administration office for doctoral studies

Consultation: please contact me by e-mail.

Doctoral program news

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Doing a doctorate

The following pages contain information about doing a PhD in the Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences at Universität Hamburg.

Promotionsmodell

Wir danken dem Promotionsstudenten Michael Werner für die Erstellung des Modells. Zum Vergrößern bitte auf das Bild klicken.

Supervision

You may pursue doctoral studies at the Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences if a full professor in the Faculty agrees to supervise your thesis. If you have a supervision agreement in writing, you can apply for admission to doctoral studies at the Graduate School. The supervision agreement must be independently obtained by the doctoral applicant.

Using Docata to apply

You must submit applications for admission to doctoral studies online. Register with Docata , the electronic administration program for doctoral students.

Docata help

Docata only accepts applications for doctoral candidates covered by the latest doctoral degree regulations. Contact us if you have applied for protection under the grandfather clause and are pursuing doctoral studies in line with earlier doctoral degree regulations.

Graduate School Membership and Enrollment

As soon as the doctoral subcommittee has approved your application for admission to doctoral studies, you will automatically become a member of the Graduate School.

Please note, however, that after you have been admitted to doctoral studies, you still have to enroll as a doctoral student at Universität Hamburg. Enrollment is required in accordance with Section 4 subsection 5 of the doctoral degree regulations of 18 January 2017. The Campus Center at Universität Hamburg handles enrollment.

If you do not need the semester ticket, you can be exempted from it under certain conditions after paying the semester fee, so that the difference will be refunded to you. More information can be found here .

Regulations

Doctoral degree regulations of the faculty of business, economics and social sciences dated 18 january 2017, further documents, doctoral degree regulations from 25 april 2012.

In its session of 25 April 2012, the Academic Council in the School of Business, Economics and Social Sciences passed new doctoral degree regulations for the PhD program in Business, Economics and Social Sciences. These include an amendment to the doctoral degree regulations of 24 August 2010.

Doctoral degree regulations from 24 October 2010

In its session of 24 August 2010, the Academic Council in the School of Business, Economics and Social Sciences passed new doctoral degree regulations (including appendices A and B). These regulations went into effect on 28 September 2010. The new regulations were developed by graduate school board. Essential features include:

• institutional support for PhD students
• Supervising committee
• earning 12 credit points
• cumulative dissertation option

Former doctoral degree regulations

There is a grandfather clause for the former degree regulations (doctoral degree regulations in the Department of Business and Economics, 1998; doctoral degree regulations in the Departement of Social Sciences, 2000; doctoral degree regulations in the former HWP, 1989).

Important information

Help for docata, handout for the online tool for doctoral procedures docata.

Docata is the online tool for doctoral procedures at the University of Hamburg. Please note that Docata is not an application portal and that you can only register in Docata if you have already received the approval of a person authorized to supervise you at the faculty and you meet the admission requirements. These instructions will show you how to register in Docata and how to apply for admission to doctoral studies. for admission to the doctoral program:

Handout for the online tool for doctoral procedures Docata (german)

Cooperations

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Doctoral Researchers

General Information/Support

What is the min graduate center and when can i contact it.

The MIN Graduate Center is an umbrella institution for all doctoral researchers at the MIN faculty, no matter whether you are doing your doctorate in a structured program or individually. There are numerous support possibilities, about which we inform in our newsletter or on Twitter .

Finding a Position/Supervisor/Topic

What are good reasons for pursuing a doctorate at the min faculty of uhh.

• Gain excellent research experience at northern Germany’s largest and leading center of research, a University of Excellence (four Clusters of Excellence)
• Earn an internationally recognized qualification at a faculty with a strong international reputation. Our international focus allows you to do your doctorate in English ( no German knowledge required).
• Carry out research in a highly supportive environment: Career development opportunities, travel grants and conference participation support , PhD mentoring , academic tutor consultations and networking activities are offered by the MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ) as well as by the Hamburg Research Academy (HRA) , and UHH HR Career Development .
• Take advantage of the Welcome Buddy Service for prospective and new international doctoral researchers at the MIN Faculty, helping them out to get a good start with their everyday life in Hamburg.
• Live and do research in one of the most attractive international destination cities in the world: Hamburg is a major European science, research, and education hub with mind-broadening culture, as well as a popular tourist destination.

What are necessary steps to start a doctorate?

Find a supervisor and agree on a topic for your doctoral dissertation. An application for admission to doctoral procedures must be submitted to the responsible subject doctoral committee before work on the doctoral dissertation project commences. This website will guide you through the steps to take.

What is the difference between structured doctoral programs and an individual doctorate?

In brief: In a structured doctoral program, you are part of a graduate school, you have more than one supervisor and have a certain amount of required coursework. For an individual doctorate, conditions depend on agreements with your supervisor(s). Having a single supervisor is possible, but adding more supervisors is recommendable. Supervision by more than one person can enrich the doctoral project professionally and methodically and contribute to quality assurance. Please read here for more information on the differences and see here for our structured programs.

Where can I find open positions for doctoral researchers?

Positions are advertised on the websites of the structured programs as well as on the university job portal .

How can I find a supervisor?

Check the websites of the structured programs as well as the university job portal for open positions. If you would like to submit a speculative application, try to identify specific research areas you are particularly interested in on the websites of the respective program, institution or department. Look at recent publications of professors who work in your area of interest. Write a tailored email to the potential supervisor in which you briefly introduce yourself, your previous degrees and research, and state how your research interests overlap. Ask whether the professor has any doctoral positions to offer.

Can I have more than one supervisor?

Yes, a doctorate with more than one supervisor is possible. For a structured doctorate in a graduate school, at least two supervisors or a supervisory commission panel are required. Supervision by more than one person can enrich the doctoral project professionally and methodically and contribute to quality assurance. Multiple supervision is a suitable means of ensuring optimal supervision at all times, including in difficult and conflictual situations or when one supervisor is unavailable.

Whom do I have to contact first?

The first step is to think of which research are you want to work in and find a supervisor matching your topic. If you are not sure who could be a prospective supervisor, we recommend contacting our academic tutors at the MIN graduate center. If you are interested in a structured program , you should check the respective websites for open positions and get in contact with either the potential supervisor or the program coordinator.

Can I switch from an individual doctoral thesis to a structured program?

Yes, once you are admitted to a structured program, you should ask for the signatures in this formular .

What should my first steps be when I see an open doctoral position that interests me?

If the topic is interesting to you and you meet the requirements, you could email or call the supervisor and check whether your expectations are met. Things to check upon the start can be found here .

How do I choose a topic for my dissertation project?

If you apply for an advertised position, the topic may already be specified. In most cases, your topic will be specified and refined in collaboration with your supervisor(s).

Should the topic of my doctoral dissertation project be closely related to the topic of my Master’s project?

It could be beneficial for your application to show the potential supervisor(s) that you are familiar with the research topic. However, it is also crucial that you choose a project that really interests you since you will be working on it for approximately 3 years.

To find a position as doctoral researcher, is it important that I have participated at conferences, was active in the scientific community etc.? What skills are essential?

Being active in the scientific community is always a beneficial for an application for a doctoral position. However, each professor has their own preferences regarding to what they seek in a candidate, e.g., good grades, research experience, publications etc. For the application for admission to doctoral procedures, the curriculum vitae and if available, a publication list must be submitted.

How long does it take to do a doctorate?

The doctoral dissertation should generally be completed within three years. Admission to doctoral procedures is valid for an initial period of four years. The doctoral dissertation should be submitted to the subject doctoral committee within this period. Upon the submission of a request stating the reasons for the delay, the time period may be extended.

What is the difference between a Dr. rer. nat. and a Ph.D.?

Dr. rer. nat. is the traditional degree awarded for a doctorate in the natural sciences in Germany. For structured programs, the Ph.D. title is becoming more common. At the MIN Faculty it is possible to apply for the award of the Ph.D. degree instead of Dr. rer. nat. only if you are a member of these graduate schools and you have successfully completed your doctoral studies. The application for the award of the Ph.D. degree can be submitted at the earliest within the application to open the doctorate proceedings (i.e., when the dissertation is submitted), but at the latest up until the oral defense (disputation).

Support for Internationals

What kind of support is offered for potential or newly admitted international doctoral researchers.

If you are thinking of starting a doctorate at the MIN faculty, you are welcome to check our MIN PhD Gateway for information or contact our academic tutors . A practical guide for new and prospective doctoral researchers at the MIN Faculty can be found here . If you have already been admitted, the most important support will probably be given through your graduate school (if applicable) or supervisor (if you do an individual doctorate). Further support can be given through our MIN Welcome Buddies , the UHH Welcome Service , and the Hamburg Welcome Center .

Is support offered for families of international doctoral researchers?

Yes, our “New in Hamburg” guide offers information and points of contact regarding family affairs, including information on childcare as well as residence and work permits for spouses.

Will I need a visa to pursue a doctorate in Germany?

As a general rule, Non-EU nationals require visas for stays of more than three months or stays leading to gainful employment before entering Germany. Non-EU citizens who want to work as a researcher should not enter Germany on a tourist or Schengen visa. The decision on a visa application may take several weeks. Applications should therefore be submitted in good time at the German Embassy or German Consulate in your home country prior to departure. Check here for more information on coming to Germany as a scientist. EU nationals and nationals of those countries for which the European Community (EU plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland) just need a valid passport to enter Germany. A practical guide for new and prospective international doctoral researchers at the MIN Faculty can be found here.  For an individual consultation, please contact the UHH Welcome Service .

Is it possible for me to stay in Germany when I’m done with my doctorate?

After graduating from a German higher-education establishment and working in a job matching your qualifications for at least two years, you can be issued with an open-ended residence title in Germany. Check here for further information. For an individual consultation, please contact UHH Welcome Service .

Do the years of the doctorate count toward permanent residency in Germany?

Yes, in general they do. However, the issuing of permanent residence permits is dependent on numerous factors. For an individual consultation, please contact the  UHH Welcome Service .

Admission to Doctoral Procedures

What are the formal requirements for the admission to doctoral studies at the min faculty of universität hamburg.

The successful completion of a degree program from a higher education institution (e.g., Master’s degree, Diplom, Magister) as well as a supervision agreement with at least one supervisor at the UHH MIN Faculty are required for a successful application for admission to doctoral procedures. A list of requirements for admission (including admission documents) can be found on the websites of the relevant MIN department .

Which documents do I need for admission?

Doctoral admission is granted in the six departments of the MIN Faculty . A list of documents needed for admission (including admission documents) can be found on the websites of your relevant MIN department .

Can you apply with a degree from a University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule)?

Yes, you can apply with a degree from a University of Applied Sciences if the completed degree program is relevant to the doctoral dissertation project (for example Master’s degree or Diplom).

Is there an age limit for the application for admission?

No, there is no age limit. You can start the doctorate at any age.

Is there a deadline to apply for admission?

No, you can apply for admission to doctoral procedures at any time (for requirements see above). The responsible subject doctoral committees decide on applications for admission promptly after receipt of the application. However, if you need to apply for funding it is worth having the deadlines of the big funding agencies in mind. Please note: An application for admission to doctoral procedures must be submitted to the responsible subject doctoral committee before work on the doctoral dissertation project commences.

Do I have to be able to speak German?

No, you don’t need any language certificates before starting your doctoral studies. However, it is of advantage to gain some German language skills before or during your doctorate. English language skills are probably even more necessary in most groups as English is often the main language for communication. German and English courses are provided by the university .

Will my degrees/qualifications be recognized for admission? Or do I need to apply for a recognition for my degrees/qualifications?

In the frame of the application for admission to doctoral procedures, copies of your degree certificates (e.g. Bachelor’s and Master’s degree) such as certificate of academic degree, transcript of records, diploma supplement (if issued) must be submitted. If your degree certificates are issued in another language than German or English, you must submit a certified translation (in German or English) of your degree certificates. Doctoral candidates with degrees from outside Germany should always submit a transcript of records and diploma supplement; in some cases further documents are also required. You can find all admission documents on the websites of the relevant MIN department .

Do I need transcripts for my application for admission?

Transcripts of records are needed for degrees completed outside Germany.

Is there an entrance examination for admission?

As a rule, no. However, admission to the fast track doctoral procedure is an exception to this rule (see further details in Section 4, subsection 3 of the Doctoral Degree Regulations MIN Faculty (2018) ). Universität Hamburg annually announces stipends for fast-track doctoral procedures .

Can I pursue a doctorate with a Bachelor’s degree (i.e., without a Master’s degree)?

As a rule, no. Admission to the fast track doctoral procedure is an exception to this rule. An applicant may be eligible for fast track admission upon obtaining a Bachelor’s degree in a degree program that is materially relevant to the doctoral dissertation project, provided that the degree corresponds to the criteria established by the subject doctoral committee and an assessment review has been successfully conducted. Admission to a fast track doctoral procedure is subject to the condition that the applicant acquires a Master’s degree in a subject relevant to the doctoral dissertation project within the framework of the doctoral procedure. Universität Hamburg annually announces stipends for fast-track doctoral procedures .

I’m not yet finished with my Master’s program. Can I apply before I graduate?

As a rule, you can’t apply for admission to doctoral procedures before you graduate from your Master’s program. The Master’s degree certificates are mandatory application documents. If you are about to complete your Master’s program, all exams have already been successfully passed and you are only waiting for the issuance of the degree certificates, you could contact the responsible Academic Office (Biology, Chemistry, Earth System Sciences, Informatics or Mathematics) or the Doctoral Office Physics and ask how to proceed. Furthermore, you may certainly search for doctoral positions and try to find a supervisor while waiting for your degree certificates.

Can I start a doctorate while I’m still getting a different degree?

As a rule, you can’t apply for admission to doctoral procedures before you graduate from your previous degree program (see further details in Section 4, subsection 2 of the Doctoral Degree Regulations MIN Faculty (2018) ) The degree certificates are mandatory application documents. If you are about to complete your degree program and all exams have already been successfully passed and you are waiting for the issuance of the degree certificates, you could contact the responsible Academic Office (Biology, Chemistry, Earth System Sciences, Informatics or Mathematics) or the Doctoral Office Physics and ask how to proceed. However, you may certainly search for doctoral positions and try to find a supervisor while waiting for your degree certificates.

Are internships mandatory before applying for admission?

No, internships are not required.

Is it possible to apply this year and start the following year?

Yes, upon agreement with your supervisor(s).

Whom should I ask when questions around admission to doctoral procedures arise?

You need to contact the responsible Academic Office (Biology, Chemistry, Earth System Sciences, Informatics or Mathematics) or the Doctoral Office Physics.

Will I need to be enrolled (immatrikuliert) while I’m doing my doctorate?

Yes, enrollment must take place no later than the semester following admission. Further information will be given in your admission letter.

Will I need to pay tuition after enrolling at Universität Hamburg?

While there are no tuition fees at Universität Hamburg, students and doctoral researchers need to cover a semester contributions, which includes a public transport pass. More information on the costs that may arise can be found here .

Working on Doctoral Project/Dissertation

How often should i meet with my supervisor(s).

While we recommend at least monthly (ideally weekly) meetings in the early phase of the doctoral project, the frequency of meetings needs to be agreed upon with your supervisor(s). Further, we recommend that at least once per year the development of your career should be discussed with your supervisor(s) based on an Individual Development Plan (IDP). The IDP, developed by the MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ) is available as a printed booklet or can be downloaded here . It consists of specific standardized questions and tasks structuring the documentation, first, of your achievements, skills and goals; and, second, of future actions that you define to improve your development. You may use the IDP to foster the communication with your supervisor(s), to identify and to reflect on your competencies as well as capabilities by working through its subjects.

What is the difference between a cumulative dissertation and a monography?

A cumulative dissertation (dissertation by publication) usually requires a certain number of first-author publications, while a monography requires the writing of a “conventional” dissertation/thesis. The subject doctoral committees specify the requirements for a cumulative dissertation. You can find information on the requirements for submission of a cumulative dissertation and further information on the websites of the relevant MIN department .

In which language should I write my thesis (dissertation)?

 The doctoral dissertation may be written in German, English, or upon request to the subject doctoral committee in another research language.

What are essential components of the dissertation?

See further information on the websites of the relevant MIN department and/or in the Doctoral Degree Regulations MIN Faculty (2018) .

What is an IDP and will I need one for my doctorate?

An Individual Development Plan (IDP) is a career-development tool that may help you to assess your skills, interests, and values, make a plan for achieving your academic and professional goals, and communicate with your mentors about your evolving plan and needs. For most doctoral researchers, the implementation of an IDP is voluntary but recommended. Find out more about it here .

Can I do a stay abroad while I’m doing my doctorate?

Yes, it is possible and often even encouraged to go abroad for a period of time. You can apply for financial support for research stays and conference stays abroad at the MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ) and search the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) database for stipends.

Can I do the doctorate remotely?

Doctoral dissertation projects in the MIN fields usually require being present in person. Remote work may be possible under certain circumstances if the supervisor(s) agree(s).

Can I do my doctorate in two different disciplines?

Yes, interdisciplinary doctoral thesis are not unusual and may certainly be interesting. However, you need to choose one department at the MIN Faculty to apply for admission and submit your thesis to. This would be a topic to discuss with your supervisor(s).

Will I have time to work while I’m doing a doctorate?

If you have a paid doctoral position, your job may include tasks that are not strictly related to your research project such as teaching, lab courses, working on applications for funding etc. Whether it is possible to have a job beyond that needs to be clarified with your employer/foundation. For some stipends, side jobs with more than 5 work hours/week are not permitted. Doctoral dissertation projects in MIN fields usually require a full-time commitment. The doctoral dissertation should generally be completed within three years. Admission to doctoral procedures is valid for an initial period of four years. The doctoral dissertation should be submitted to the subject doctoral committee within this period. However, the time period may be extended upon the submission of a request stating the reasons for the delay.

Are doctoral candidates always involved in teaching and supervision of Bachelor/Master students?

No, they are not. Additional tasks like teaching and supervision should be discussed and agreed upon at the start of the doctorate. There are many factors influencing the amount of teaching and supervision such as funding (teaching obligations are more likely for employed candidates) or the type of institution (teaching is less common at non-university institutions).

What does good scientific practice mean and how can I find out more about it?

It is recommended to address good scientific practice at the beginning of the doctoral studies. You can find the Bylaws for Safeguarding Good Scientific Practice and Avoiding Scientific Misconduct at Universität Hamburg here . The MIN Graduate Center supports the adherence to good scientific practice through workshops , which cover many questions from the daily scientific routine.

Funding/Financing

How can i finance my doctorate.

Funding options are explained in the MIN PhD Portal and on the website of the Hamburg Research Academy (HRA) . You may also search for doctoral and postdoctoral research funding/open positions at job opportunities at Universität Hamburg . Search for open positions after different criteria such as type of position, institution, salary level, supervisor etc.

Which doctoral positions are paid? Do candidates have to bring funding?

Advertised positions are usually paid. The salary level should be included in the advertisement. If you arrange an individual doctorate with a professor, you need to clarify whether and to what extent funding is available. More information on funding can be found here .

What costs will I incur during my doctorate?

There are no tuition fees at Universität Hamburg. Students and doctoral researchers only need to cover a semester contributions, which includes a public transport pass. More information on the costs that may arise can be found here .

Are there specific funding opportunities for applicants from developing countries?

Yes, there are. You can find a summary on funding of the doctorate here . We recommend checking the DAAD database for specific programs. You may want to look out for the Hilde Domin Stipend (if applicable).

Can I do a doctorate part time?

Formally seen, there is no part-time doctorate at the MIN Faculty. Doctoral dissertation projects in MIN fields usually require a full-time commitment. The doctoral dissertation should generally be completed within three years. Admission to doctoral procedures is valid for an initial period of four years. The doctoral dissertation should be submitted to the subject doctoral committee within this period. However, the time period may be extended upon the submission of a request stating the reasons for the delay.

Do doctoral candidates have to pay taxes?

If you are employed as a doctoral researcher (and live in Germany), you have to pay taxes. On a stipend no taxes are paid.

Will I need insurance while I’m doing a doctorate?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory. It is also advisable to take out a (family) liability insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung) for the duration of your research stay. The third-party insurance will protect you against claims resulting from damage caused unintentionally.

Can I get financial support for a stay abroad?

Yes, you can apply for financial support for research stays and conference stays abroad at the MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ) .

Will I need to take classes/exams while I’m doing a doctorate?

If you are a part of a structured doctoral program, some classes are usually required. Taking classes is also possible, but usually not mandatory, for individual doctorates. Check here for a summary of providers.

Can I get additional qualifications while I’m doing my doctorate?

It is absolutely recommended to make use of the great training opportunities given at Universität Hamburg and its partner institutions. Check here for a summary of providers. As a doctoral researcher at the MIN faculty, you are automatically part of the MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ). In addition, those at the participating graduate schools are part of MIND, the MIN Doctoral Program, which offers further qualifications in scholarship and research.

How can I connect with other doctoral researchers?

The MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ) regularly informs about opportunities to network and socialize with other doctoral researchers in a monthly newsletter and on the MINGZ Twitter channel. Regular MINGZ events include the PhD Club and PhD Walking Tours to explore the city. Further networking events are offered by the Hamburg Research Academy (HRA) and by PIASTA , a program run by the UHH Department of International Affairs.

Do doctoral researchers at UHH have representation? How can I get involved?

There are numerous possibilities to get involved, for example as doctoral representatives at the MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ), doit at Campus Bahrenfeld or in the doctoral council of the Hamburg Research Academy (HRA).

Problems/Conflicts

What happens if i need more time to finish my doctorate.

It is possible to extend the admission period under certain circumstances. Please check here for the regulations of extension.

What happens if my supervisor leaves the university?

They are allowed to supervise for another four years after leaving the university. Under special circumstances, it is also possible to change your supervisor.

What happens if there are problems with my supervisor?

If problems or uncomfortable situations arise, you may contact the MIN Graduate Center for our first level support , which is given online or in person on short notice. We will help you reflect on the situation and learn more about further support that is possible at the faculty or university level. Under special circumstances, it is still possible to change your supervisor.

What should I do if I suspect scientific misconduct?

Find out more on Bylaws for Safeguarding Good Scientific Practice and Avoiding Scientific Misconduct at Universität Hamburg here . You may reach out to the MIN Graduate Center for a first level support , which is given online or in person on short notice. Further, the members of the Ombuds Committee at Universität Hamburg can serve as confidential contact persons for all questions relating to good scientific practice or the possession of evidence of scientific misconduct. All queries and evidence are treated confidentially. The MIN Graduate Center also supports the adherence to good scientific practice through workshops , which cover many questions from the daily scientific routine.

Opening of Doctorate Proceedings (Dissertation Submission)

At what point and where should i apply for the opening of doctorate proceedings.

You can apply for the opening of doctorate proceedings after your dissertation is ready to be submitted for evaluation. Requirements (including documents) and useful information can be found on the websites of the relevant MIN department.

When is my dissertation ready to be submitted?

We recommend that you agree with your supervisor(s) on criteria for the completion of your dissertation early in your doctoral research phase, and continue to discuss the subject regularly, for example as part of your IDP meetings.

In what form and where does the dissertation have to be submitted?

See the websites of the relevant MIN department for further information.

What is the role of the examination commission?

The examination commission for your doctoral procedure is appointed by the responsible subject doctoral committee once you have submitted your dissertation (see requirements on the composition of the examination commission on the websites of the relevant MIN department ). You are entitled to recommend members for the examination commission. The examination commission evaluates the dissertation based on the submitted assessments, conducts and evaluates the oral defense, and assigns an overall final grade.

How can I find members for my examination commission?

In most cases, your supervisor can suggest suitable committee members. If this is not the case, we recommend checking the website of your department for a scientist in a relevant research field. The responsible Academic Office (Biology, Chemistry, Earth System Sciences, Informatics or Mathematics) or the Doctoral Office Physics will advise on the legally compliant composition of the examination commission.

Who is going to assess my dissertation?

When you submit your dissertation, you will be asked to submit suggestions for assessors. Generally, one supervisor or one co-supervisor of your dissertation project should be suggested and appointed. See the websites of the relevant MIN department for further information.

How much time do the assessors have for the evaluation of my dissertation?

Assessments must be submitted within six weeks of the request.

Disputation (Oral Defense)

What are the components of the disputation.

You should present the results of the dissertation and their significance in the broader context of the subject in a presentation lasting approximately half an hour. After your presentation, you will defend the doctoral dissertation and answer questions posed by members of the examination commission. Questions should also relate to the relevance of the problems of the dissertation in larger scholarly contexts. Subsequently, the chair of the examination commission can allow questions from the university public on the topic of the oral defense. Questioning should last a minimum of 30 minutes and a maximum of 90 minutes.

Who can attend my disputation?

The oral defense is open to the university public. Examination commission members must attend the oral defense.

Can I defend my dissertation remotely?

As a rule, no (see information in this form  and this instruction sheet ).

Award of Doctoral Degree

When can i start using the doctor title.

You may only start using the doctor title after receiving the signed and sealed doctoral degree certificate: The doctoral degree certificate conferring the doctorate entitles the person to use the doctor title.

Can I use the Ph.D. and Dr. rer. nat. titles interchangeably?

No. You may only use your title in the form it is stated on your doctoral degree certificate. If you are graduating from one of these graduate schools and you have successfully completed your doctoral studies, you may apply for the award of the Ph.D. degree instead of the Dr. rer. nat. up. The application can be submitted up until the oral defense (disputation).

After the Doctorate

May i use the data from my doctoral project after i have completed my doctorate.

The use of data from your doctoral project for future academic work should only be denied for valid reasons. Usually, research is publicly funded, and resulting data should therefore be publicly accessible. You should discuss and agree on the accessibility and storage of your data early on in your doctoral research phase with your supervisor(s).

Are there any alumni programs? How do I stay in touch?

Yes, Universität Hamburg has an alumni association that is open to all graduates. The MIN Graduate Center (MINGZ) regularly invites past doctoral candidates to networking events and encourages the exchange of experiences with current candidates. Please contact the MINGZ if you would like to find out more.