Quality assurance in evaluation processes

The regulations governing the grant of life-long professorships at Leibniz University Hannover within the scope of the tenure track process determine procedures of the tenure track process taking into account the principles of transparency and equal opportunities. The tenure track regulations are legally binding.

Evaluation criteria correspond to international standards and take into account the nature of different subjects. The expected performance is clearly defined between the faculties and university management and is specified transparently, fairly and bindingly in cooperation with the tenure track professor.

Life-long professorships within the scope of the tenure track process are only granted based on performance, irrespective of vacant positions. At the time of the advertisement, a life-long position is already established for each tenure track professorship.

In order to be granted tenure, a positive interim evaluation is required after the first half the probation phase, as well as a positive tenure evaluation at the end of the limited position phase. The interim evaluation scheduled to take place at the end of the third year of employment for W1 tenure track professorships or the progress meeting for W2 tenure track professorships is intended to identify possible obstacles and, if needed, steer candidates back into the right direction, as well as to promote their individual potential. The results of the interim and tenure evaluation as well as resulting recommendations are communicated in a personal interview with the tenure track professor. If necessary, individual support is offered.

The decision whether tenure is granted or denied is based on the result of the voluntary evaluation of research and teaching activities, as well as on the recommendations of the Leibniz Tenure Board, an international and independent body of experts consisting of six external researchers (two from each of the scientific clusters “engineering sciences”, “natural sciences”, “humanities and social sciences”). In order to assess research achievements, the Leibniz Tenure Board obtains at least two structured written reports from externally recognised experts.