Full Professor of Linguistics of African Languages in Context

The University of Bayreuth is a research-oriented university with internationally competitive, interdisciplinary focus areas in research and teaching. The Faculty of Languages & Literatures at the University of Bayreuth is currently seeking to appoint a

at salary grade W3 to commence on or after 01.10.2027. This is a permanent civil service position.

The successful candidate will cover the full spectrum of African linguistics in both research and teaching. A clearly defined specialization in the linguistics of African languages (African studies) is required, with links to sociolinguistics, anthropological linguistics and/or discourse analysis, including approaches from translation studies in the context of African languages. The professorship focuses on the cultural embedding of African languages in various social contexts, on language contact and multilingualism, and on communicative practices. A regional specialization outside East Africa is required.

A proven track record in empirical and field research is required, combining structural-linguistic analyses with sociolinguistic, ethnographic, interactional, translation studies or discourse analytical approaches. Relevant experience in research and teaching in the field of African linguistics (African Studies) is expected, as well as native or near-native proficiency in at least one African language. Internationally recognized publications and evidence of successful acquisition of external funding are essential requirements for appointment.

Furthermore, a willingness to engage in interdisciplinary collaboration and to participate actively in the University of Bayreuth’s key research areas, particularly within the ‘African Studies’ Research Network, is expected. The professorship works closely with the Institute of African Studies, the multi- and interdisciplinary cluster “Africa Multiple. Reconfiguring African Studies” and the Bayreuth International Graduate School of African Studies (BIGSAS), and also cooperates with related disciplines within the Faculty.

Teaching duties will be carried out primarily in the BA and MA programmes African Studies: Language, Arts, Philosophy as well as in the BA and MA programmes of the Faculty of Languages and Literature. The ability to deliver courses in English and, in the medium term, also in German is expected.

In addition to the general legal requirements, prerequisites for this position are a university degree, a doctoral degree, proven excellence in teaching, and a post-doctoral qualification to teach at a professorial level (Habilitation). Alternatively, evidence of equivalent scholarly achievement, for example as a junior professor or in a non-university environment, will also be considered.  Only applicants who are 51 years of age or younger can be hired as civil servants. Exceptions will only be made if there are urgent reasons for doing so (Art. 60 para 3 BayHIG).

The University of Bayreuth views the diversity of its staff as an asset and is expressly committed to the goal of gender equality. Female scholars and any persons who can help make the research and teaching profile of the university more diverse are strongly encouraged to apply. Applicants with children are highly welcome. The University of Bayreuth is a member of the best practice club Family at University, and it offers “dual career support” for career-oriented partners of highly qualified employees. In addition, an extended audit conducted by the German Rectors’ Conference (HRK) returned a favourable review for the University of Bayreuth’s commitment to internationalization. All qualifications being equal, applicants with disabilities will be given priority.

Applications (CV including a list of publications, list of courses taught, experience obtaining external funding, as well as copies of certificates and diplomas) are to be addressed to the Dean of the Faculty of  Languages & Literatures Prof. Dr. Gesine Schiewer and submitted via https://uni-bayreuth.berufungsportal.de by 15.07.2026.

Applicants are welcome to direct questions and requests for further information to the Dean at dekanat.split@uni-bayreuth.de.

Application documents will be deleted in accordance with data protection law following the conclusion of the appointment process.