Lecturer in Japanese Studies

Tallinn University is a modern and dynamic research university. As one of the top 5% universities in the world, we contribute to world-class research, creative work and education in order to offer solutions to real-life challenges.

Tallinn University is a member of several international university networks and cooperates closely with partner institutions abroad. This ensures the university’s academic quality and impact beyond Estonia and creates a favourable environment for the implementation of research projects. In cooperation with international partners, Tallinn University has been successful in attracting highly competitive research grants to Estonia.

More than 1,000 staff members and 7,000 students at Tallinn University believe in a research-based mindset. We are leaders in promoting an intelligent lifestyle. Relying on science and guided by our values, we strive to build an informed, caring and sustainable society.

The School of Humanities is one of the six schools of Tallinn University. It focuses on teaching and research in the field of the humanities. It also helps to interpret society, culture and people’s experiences by offering research-based perspectives on today’s complex processes. Teaching takes place at all levels of higher education and is supported by broad international research cooperation. The aim of the School of Humanities is to contribute to the development of a meaningful and cohesive society through the humanities.

The School of Humanities carries out research and development in six academic fields: Asian Studies, Estonian Language and Culture, Western European Studies, History, Cultural Theory, and Russian and Eastern European Studies.

Number of vacancies

1

Deadline for applying

29.03.2026

Job location

Narva mnt 25, Tallinn

Work assignments

The lecturer teaches courses related to Japanese history, society, religions, philosophy and literature. They are involved in research and development in the field and have an identifiable research potential and research topic.

The lecturer’s duties may include, among other things, research into cultural processes, literature, film, and media in nineteenth- and twentieth-century and contemporary Japan, as well as the interpretation of political and social processes in Japan and consideration of its regional role. The lecturer collaborates in teaching and research with colleagues from other fields of study of the School.

Duties also include student assessment and feedback, supervision of student research, participation in subject area development, research and development projects, as well as applying for research projects, popularisation of the field of study in Estonia, cooperation within the university and with external organisations in the field of study, participation in academic cooperation networks, including with Japanese partners, professional research in the field of study and publication of results. The duties and their scope are described in more detail in Clauses 3.1. and 4. of Annex 6 to the Employment Relations Rules.

Education

The candidate is expected to have a doctoral degree.

Work experience

The position requires in-depth knowledge of the Japanese language, culture, and society. Experience in teaching courses in the field of study and knowledge of higher-education teaching methodology is also required. Experience of working on research projects would be an advantage.

Language skills

Proficiency in Japanese at an advanced level; proficiency in Estonian and English at the level required for the performance of duties. If the candidate does not speak Estonian, they are expected to master level B1 in three years and B2 in five. Tallinn University offers language support in the form of free Estonian language courses and integration support.

The documents required for applying

To apply, please submit the application documents required to participate in the competition announced for filling academic positions via the application link by 29 March 2026 at the latest by clicking the “Apply now” button.

In your cover letter, please describe your teaching principles, teaching methods and assessment practices, together with examples of previous work.

Additional information

Organisational matters konkurss@tlu.ee; academic matters Associate Professor Alari Allik alari.allik@tlu.ee.

Additional requirements

The candidate must meet the requirements for the position of lecturer set out in Annex 6 to the Employment Relations Rules.

Company/organization offers

  • an interesting and responsible position in an academic and international environment;
  • a professional and supportive team;
  • diverse opportunities for professional development and self-improvement;
  • access to health and sports activities on preferential terms;
  • 56 calendar days of annual leave;
  • 5 paid days off per year for significant life events, health promotion, or voluntary work.
Education/Science
  • Contract start date: 01.09.2026
  • Work time: Full time work
  • Workload: 1
Apply Now
  • Company/Organization

    Tallinna Ülikool/Humanitaarteaduste instituut

  • Web page

    https://www.tlu.en/

  • Address

    Estonia, Harjumaa, Tallinn

    Narva mnt 25