Application Guide

How to Apply for Tutor Shaping Futures Academy

at German Insititute of Development and Sustainability

🏢 About German Insititute of Development and Sustainability

The German Institute of Development and Sustainability (IDOS) is a leading research institute advising the German government and international organizations on sustainable development policy. Working here offers direct exposure to high-level international cooperation and the chance to contribute to shaping global development agendas through practical implementation of programs like the Shaping Futures Academy.

About This Role

This part-time tutor role supports the Shaping Futures Academy 2026, focusing on participant logistics (visas, travel, accommodation), digital module delivery in April, and in-person events across Bonn, Berlin, and Brussels from May-July. You'll directly impact international participants' experience while gaining hands-on event management and project administration skills within a prestigious development institute.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve responding to participant emails about visa requirements in German and English, researching Brussels venues for July events, and formatting Excel analyses of participant feedback. You could also co-facilitate a digital session on international cooperation topics or draft communications with catering providers for the Bonn workshop.

🚀 Application Tools

Generate Cover Letter

AI-powered, tailored for German Insititute of Development and Sustainability

Interview Prep

Practice questions for this role

🎯 Who German Insititute of Development and Sustainability Is Looking For

  • A current Bachelor's/Master's student with demonstrated interest in event coordination, particularly for international audiences
  • Strong administrative skills with MS Office proficiency and experience using e-conference/e-learning platforms (like Zoom, Moodle, or Teams)
  • Fluent in German and English (written/spoken) with intercultural sensitivity to support diverse participants
  • Interest in international relations and development, able to research topics like climate policy or migration for Academy materials

📝 Tips for Applying to German Insititute of Development and Sustainability

1

Highlight any experience organizing events for international participants, even in student clubs or volunteer roles

2

Mention specific e-tools you've used (e.g., 'managed breakout rooms in Zoom for 50+ participants' or 'created content on Moodle')

3

If you have French skills, explicitly note how they could help with Brussels events or francophone participants

4

Tailor your resume to show administrative tasks (Excel analyses, document formatting) alongside event support

5

Research IDOS's current projects (like just transition or digitalization) to show genuine interest in their work

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Explain why you're drawn to IDOS's mission in sustainable development, not just event management", 'Provide a concrete example of managing logistics for a multi-stakeholder event or program', 'Highlight your language skills and how they enable support for German/English-speaking participants and documents', 'Note your availability for the key periods (April 2026 digital module, May-July 2026 in-person events)']

Generate Cover Letter →

🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → IDOS's current research priorities (e.g., global health, climate finance) to understand the Academy's thematic context
  • → The Shaping Futures Academy's past editions or similar IDOS training programs
  • → IDOS's role in German development policy and key partners (like GIZ or BMZ)
  • → Logistical challenges for international events in Bonn, Berlin, and Brussels (venues, catering norms)

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you handle a participant's last-minute visa issue for the Berlin event?
2 Describe your experience creating engaging digital learning content or moderating online sessions
3 What steps would you take to find and evaluate a venue in Brussels for 30 international attendees?
4 How do you prioritize tasks when managing participant logistics, event planning, and research simultaneously?
5 Why is intercultural sensitivity important when supporting participants from diverse backgrounds in development programs?
Practice Interview Questions →

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic application without mentioning IDOS's focus on sustainability/development
  • Overlooking the bilingual requirement (not showcasing German/English proficiency in materials)
  • Failing to address the part-time, student-friendly nature of the role and your availability for key 2026 dates

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to German Insititute of Development and Sustainability!

← Back to Job Listing Apply Now →