Interview with Dr. Eline Gerritsen

Universität Hamburg—University of Excellence supports especially qualified doctoral and early career researchers from Germany and abroad by awarding postdoctoral fellowships every year. In this program, recipients assume leadership of their own research project to lay the groundwork for the next stage of their career—for example, as a junior or W2 professor or the leader of an early career research group. They receive a substantial budget for materials: €20,000 annually for a 3-year period. Dr. Eline Gerritsen tells us more about her experience as postdoctoral fellow.

Position:

Postdoctoral researcher

Working location:

Institute of Philosophy

What motivated you to do a postdoctoral fellowship at Universität Hamburg?

After doing my doctorate, I had an idea for a new research topic, and I was delighted that the project received support at Universität Hamburg. My scholarship gives me 3 years to concentrate on my own research focus and the resources to successfully see the project through—for example, I can organize various events and visits abroad to develop the project and my network.

What is special about the work at Universität Hamburg?

I have a lot of research autonomy. It’s fun to teach my students. And I appreciate the care given to my long-term career goals.