Tasks of research consultants (at the WKN)
The WKN is an independent panel of experts that advises Lower Saxony and other northern German state governments on science and research policy matters. Each research consultant working there has a single specialist focus. They prepare expert reports, organise working groups that perform potential analyses for example, and develop guidelines.
If specific research units or projects are up for review, for instance, the research consultants at the WKN will prepare and organise the content for the evaluation procedure. According to Pätzold, aspiring consultants should bear one thing in mind in particular: "Research consultants accompany the academics, and support and encourage them but are barely involved in the academic work themselves."
Prerequisites: What do research consultants need to bring with them?
Given that the situation can change from day to day, particularly the ability to adapt quickly and to familiarise oneself rapidly with new topics are important requirements. Those wishing to deal with international matters should also have good proficiency in English and cultural skills. Resistance to stress is also essential as well as organisational and coordination skills.
Experience in project management can also be advantageous. For Mathias Pätzold, a specialist background is also decisive. At the WKN headquarters, each research consultant is responsible for an expert group in the field corresponding to his or her own background. This often enables a preliminary assessment of research projects and fields by the consultants, and simplifies the search for experts, for example. However, he warns of specialising too much: "Those open to more general issues improve their chances," Pätzold declares.
Salary and career opportunities: What do research consultants earn?
Most research consultants work in civil service and are paid according to the collective agreement for public servants. Depending on the establishment and position, the pay is between pay grades E13 and E15. This means that depending on the federal state and level, the gross annual salary lies between 60.000 Euros and 90.000 Euros.
According to the WKN Secretary General, the opportunities for career entry and advancement are highly dependent on the size of the organisation. At universities or research institutions, the positions as a rule are only for a fixed period. In the political sphere, employment is often linked to the legislative period and the success in the next elections – at least it is for those working for members of the Bundestag. Those working in parliamentary groups or ministries are often employed on a permanent basis.
Most research consultants are . Depending on the establishment and position, the pay lies between pay grades 13 and 15. Depending on the federal state and level (i.e. professional experience), the gross annual salary for research consultants lies between 40.000 Euros and around 68.000 Euros.