Navigating the Path to Group Leader in Germany: Facts, Myths and Advice (GAIN26)

Leading your own research group is often seen as a key step toward a professorship in Germany. But in reality, the path is rarely straightforward. Requirements vary across programs, expectations differ between universities and non-university research institutions, and tenure-track options can be difficult to navigate. In some cases, careers develop along less conventional, individual paths.

This workshop is for researchers preparing for a next step into group leadership or similar positions.

We will unpack the different routes available in Germany, discuss how they compare, and help you assess what might be feasible in your specific situation.
You will also hear from experienced experts and a group leader originally from the US working in Germany, who will share first-hand insights and informal advice — including what is often not visible in official information or program descriptions.

• Matthew Lee Kraushar, MD, PhD, Group Leader, Max Planck Institute for Molecular Genetics, Berlin
• Katharina Lemke, Head of Legal and Consulting Department, German Association of University Professors and Lecturers (DHV)
• Carolin Victoria Schneider, Junior Professor at RWTH Aachen, recipient of NRW returning scholars program
• Helga Soer-Sodmann, Head of SAFIR Research Funding Support, University of Münster

Facilitator:

• Dr. Anne Schreiter, Executive Director, Guidance, Skills & Opportunities for Researchers e.V.

Language: English