Mid-level academic staff representatives

Who is classified as a mid-level academic?

At university level, the group of academic (and artistic) staff is recognised (external link, opens in a new window)as one of the representative groups under the University Constitution (external link, opens in a new window); specifically, the University Constitution stipulates that this group is represented on faculty boards and in the senate. This means that doctoral candidates, research project staff and permanent assistant professors belong to the group represented by the two seats on the faculty board.

What does the mid-level academic staff representation on the faculty board do?

The representatives of academic staff are voting members of the faculty board and bring the perspective of mid-level academic staff to bear on all faculty decisions, e.g. in deliberations and decision-making regarding degree programs, Examination Regulations, appointment procedures, academic infrastructure, as well as the allocation of funds and department-specific issues. The faculty board is responsible for all faculty-related matters not expressly assigned to other bodies (e.g. the dean's office); the mid-level academic staff representatives play an active role in this.

How is the mid-level academic staff representation elected?

The representatives of academic staff are elected directly by the members of their group every two years during the university elections. The university’s electoral regulations or the Electoral Office organise the elections (electronically in recent years). The Electoral Office (external link, opens in a new window) publishes information on the procedure, timetable and election documents.

When and why can you contact the mid-level academic staff representative body?

In short: whenever you have questions or concerns relating to your role or working environment as a research assistant — for example:

• problems or queries regarding employment contracts, job descriptions, third-party funded projects or working conditions
• Concerns regarding teaching, Examination Regulations or resources within the faculty
• Suggestions and requests regarding participation in appointment procedures, appointment committees or departmental bodies
• Questions regarding doctoral studies, supervision or professional networking
• general suggestions for improving research and teaching from the perspective of mid-level academic staff