He was one of the earliest students of Hebrew epigraphy. On graduating from the University of Göttingen Bellermann accepted a position as teacher at Reval, Russia, where he remained for four years. On his return to Erfurt in 1782, he became "Magister legens" in the gymnasium, and later assistant professor of theology and philosophy in the University of Erfurt.
In 1804 he was appointed director of the Gymnasium zum Grauen Kloster at Berlin, and professor of theology at the university in that city.
He died in Berlin.
German Academy of Sciences Leopoldina. Illuminatis.