About Position/Job
The University of Tübingen, Faculty of Science, invites applications for a W3 Professorship in Early Hominin Evolution at the Department of Geosciences and the Senckenberg Centre for Human Evolution and Palaeoenvironment (SHEP) in Germany. The position focuses on Plio-Pleistocene hominins, including early Homo, and combines research in paleobiology, comparative anatomy, and analytical methods such as phylogenetic analysis, morphometrics, and finite element modelling.
The successful candidate will engage in leading fieldwork, teaching at bachelor’s and master’s levels, and active participation in the excellence cluster “Human Origins.” Research directions include phylogeny, locomotion, diet, brain evolution, and life history of early hominins. This professorship offers a collaborative, collegial, and family-friendly academic environment with opportunities to lead national and international projects while integrating with the University of Tübingen’s renowned research network.
Position/Job Details
- Position: W3 Professorship in Early Hominin Evolution
- Institution: University of Tübingen
- Department: Geosciences, Senckenberg Centre for Human Evolution and Palaeoenvironment (SHEP)
- Research Field: Early Hominin Evolution, Paleobiology, Archaeological Sciences
- Location: Tübingen, Germany
- Number of posts: 1
- Job Type: Full-time, Professorship
- Start Date (Anticipated): As soon as possible
- Working Hours: Full-time
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD + Postdoctoral qualification equivalent to a full professorship
Research Area
- Early Hominin Evolution (Plio-Pleistocene)
- Paleobiology and Comparative Anatomy
- Phylogenetic Analysis, Morphometrics, Finite Element Modelling
- Fieldwork in Human Evolution
- Life History, Brain Evolution, Locomotion, Diet of Early Hominins
- Teaching in Archaeological Sciences and Human Evolution
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- PhD or equivalent international degree
- Postdoctoral qualification equivalent to a full professorship
- International research experience and project acquisition (national & international)
- Proven teaching effectiveness at bachelor’s and master’s levels
- Strong analytical and fieldwork skills
Preferred Qualifications:
- Active research record in early hominins, paleobiology, and human evolution
- Experience collaborating in interdisciplinary teams and excellence clusters
- Commitment to equity, diversity, and a family-friendly academic environment
- Applicants from outside Germany and female academics are strongly encouraged
Key Responsibilities
- Lead innovative research in early hominin evolution and paleobiology
- Conduct and supervise fieldwork in Plio-Pleistocene sites
- Teach introductory and advanced courses in human evolution and paleobiology
- Mentor students and early career researchers
- Contribute to the Human Origins excellence cluster and SHEP initiatives
- Secure and manage national and international third-party funded projects
Application Process
How to Apply
Submit your full application via the University of Tübingen application portal:
Apply Here
Required Documents:
- CV including research and teaching record
- List of publications
- Motivation letter and research/teaching statement
- Evidence of teaching effectiveness
- Details of previous funding and project experience
- Contact information for at least three academic referees
Important Dates
- Application Opens: 26 January 2026
- Deadline: 11 March 2026
- Interview Date: To be announced
Useful Links
- Institution Website: University of Tübingen
- Official Notification Link: Click Here
- Apply Now: Click here
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