Career policy for academic staff
Leiden University wants to attract the best academics. What requirements does it set for new academic staff members? What requirements must you meet for a career in academia? Read more about our career policy for academic staff.
The university is developing a new career policy. This policy will provide a framework for academic staff. The new policy will incorporate previous decisions, such as agreements regarding teaching posts. The policy is also aligned with the vision on Open Science and Recognition & Valuation (as set out in the Academia in Motion framework - in Dutch).
The new career policy will be finalised by 1 September 2027 at the latest. It is expected that, by that time, all faculties will have developed their own career policies within the university’s framework.
PhD basis for academic career
You will need a PhD if you wish to take the next step in your academic career, regardless of whether this means working as a lecturer, associate professor or professor. This principle does not apply to faculties who are hiring lecturers on a temporary basis. In any other exceptions to the rule, the approval of the Executive Board will be needed.
Experience: within or outside academia
If you are applying for a permanent position, you must have experience outside Leiden University. This can be academic experience at another university or practical experience outside academia.
GROW
Once every year you will be invited to a GROW interview. Your performance and development over the past year will be appraised, and you will make agreements for the year to come.
Permanent contracts, promotions or other awards such as an extra salary raise or a bonus are dependent on the GROW interview. Your performance must have met the requirements for your position.
Teaching qualification
All university staff with a teaching role must possess one or more teaching qualifications.
PhD candidates and academic staff who have a 0.5 fte contract of less than a year must follow a basic course in teaching skills.
All professors, senior lecturers, associate professors and lecturers with a contract of at least one year for at least 0.5 fte must possess the University Teaching Qualification (BKO).
The Senior Teaching Qualification (SKO) is a qualification for staff who wish to work at a higher level in teaching innovation and development.
Gender diversity
To attract more talent to the University, we aim for greater gender diversity right up to the highest level. We therefore pay particular attention in our recruitment process to applications from people who are underrepresented within particular roles.
More information
For more information on the recruitment and support of academic staff, see the Guidelines on the Appointment of Academic Staff.