S-Professorship for International Economics at Humboldt University Germany

The W3 S-Professorship for International Economics at Humboldt University offers a senior academic role in Berlin with a strong international research focus. Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin plans to fill the position from 1 October 2027. The appointment is shared with the Kiel Institute for the World Economy and includes leadership of a research group at the institute’s Berlin location. The successful candidate will also join the Berlin School of Economics. Applications close on 15 October 2026. 

This guide covers the research profile, eligibility, documents, and practical preparation strategy.

S-Professorship for International Economics: Key Details

The professorship connects university research with work at a non-university research institute. The position belongs to Humboldt University’s Faculty of Economics and Business Administration. At the same time, the appointee will lead a research group at the Kiel Institute’s Berlin site. 

The role goes beyond teaching. The vacancy seeks an economist with a strong publication record in leading international journals and an established international research network. It also calls for current, policy-relevant empirical or theoretical research on international economic questions. 

The position is full time and carries W3 remuneration. The advertised work locations are Spandauer Strasse 1 and Chausseestrasse 111 in Berlin. The appointee will contribute 2 LVS to one of the faculty’s study programmes. 

Research Areas in International Economics

The call takes a broad view of international economics. Therefore, applicants can come from different research traditions if their work has a clear international focus. 

International trade and finance

Relevant research may cover trade, global production, capital flows, exchange rates, or international financial markets. Strong candidates should connect rigorous methods with important global questions.

International macroeconomics and geo-economics

The vacancy also highlights international macroeconomics, geo-economics, and security. These themes can include global shocks, economic interdependence, geopolitical risks, and strategic links between economics and security. 

Policy relevance is another important feature. For example, research might examine how trade measures affect firms and households. Another project could study how geopolitical uncertainty influences investment. A clear question and strong evidence matter more than breadth.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the legal requirements for professorial appointments under Section 100 of the Berlin Higher Education Act. The vacancy also asks for successful publications in leading international journals and an excellent international research network. 

Experience in research-group leadership, policy advice, and third-party funding is welcomed. The successful candidate is also expected to become part of the Berlin School of Economics and contribute to teaching at faculty level. International researchers are explicitly encouraged to apply. The listing also welcomes qualified female scholars and applicants with a migration background. It states German as the expected working language at a fluent level in speech and writing. 

Application Documents and Deadline

The deadline is 15 October 2026, under reference number PR/006/26. Humboldt University prefers electronic submission as one PDF file to the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration. 

The application should contain:

• • A cover letter and curriculum vitae.

  • A teaching concept, including teaching experience, up to three pages.

  • A research concept covering current and planned research, up to three pages.

  • Up to three selected publications or working papers, with a short explanation for the selection.

  • A statement of up to one page on equality, diversity, inclusion, and work in culturally diverse groups.

  • Copies of certificates and academic documents. 

The university also notes that submitted documents will not be returned. Therefore, applicants should send copies rather than originals. 

How to Prepare a Strong Application

Build a clear research narrative

Start with your strongest research contribution. Then connect it to your current projects and future questions. The committee should quickly see what you have established and where your work is going next.

Keep the research concept focused

Do not fill three pages with a catalogue of past projects. Instead, present two or three connected research directions. Explain the questions, methods, expected contribution, and potential value of the Berlin research environment.

Make the teaching concept concrete

Show how your research informs teaching. Mention relevant courses, teaching methods, supervision experience, and examples of student engagement. Therefore, keep the teaching plan focused and relevant.

Select publications strategically

Choose papers that represent both your strengths and your future direction. For example, one paper could demonstrate methodological depth, another could show international economics expertise, and a third could point toward your next research agenda.

Practical Advice for International Applicants

Applicants outside Germany should start early. First, check academic documents against German professorial requirements. Next, prepare a concise CV that makes major publications, grants, collaborations, teaching, supervision, and leadership easy to identify.

For an Indian applicant, one common challenge is an overly detailed CV. A stronger approach is to lead with research identity and impact, then add supporting details. Focus instead on a coherent academic trajectory.

The diversity and inclusion statement also deserves care. Use specific examples, such as mentoring, inclusive teaching, international collaboration, or work with diverse academic teams. Avoid broad claims without evidence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

First, check every required document and page limit. Missing items can create preventable problems.

Second, avoid making the research concept purely retrospective. A professorship application should show a credible future programme.

Finally, replace generic phrases such as “internationally recognised” with evidence. Publications, research networks, grants, collaborations, and leadership experience make the academic profile more meaningful.

Summary Table

Conclusion

The Humboldt University S-Professorship for International Economics combines senior research, teaching, and research-group leadership. Its joint structure with the Kiel Institute creates a strong link between university scholarship and policy-relevant economic research. A strong application should present a focused research agenda, an international publication record, clear teaching experience, and evidence of academic leadership. Since the deadline is 15 October 2026, candidates should prepare their documents well in advance. Before applying, always check the official Humboldt University vacancy for the latest requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)