Research

The University of Cologne is one of the oldest and largest universities in Europe. Thanks to its outstanding scientific achievements and the high quality and diversity of its teaching portfolio, it enjoys an excellent international reputation.

The mission of the University of Cologne is to create, preserve, and disseminate knowledge; to provide its students and early-career researchers with a high-quality academic education that prepares them for careers in academia and beyond; to promote cutting-edge research; and to drive innovation — all while addressing the ever-changing needs and challenges of today’s society.

Research Profile

With five clusters of excellence, the University of Cologne is one of Germany's most successful universities in the Excellence Strategy of the Federal Government and the Länder. Clusters of excellence are interdisciplinary collaborative projects involving scientists who conduct joint research on particularly relevant topics. The Cologne clusters of excellence are embedded in the university's research structure of key profile areas (KPAs), which bundle topics of high scientific and social significance.
Further information

Awarded and funded

At a glance: Research in figures

Collaborative Research Projects

Individual Research

Foto: Eck-Außenansicht des Physik-Neubaus der Universität zu Köln vor blauem Himmel.

Research Infrastructures

Research infrastructures at the University of Cologne are divided into three categories:

Centrally operated research infrastructures
Decentrally operated research infrastructures
Cooperatively operated research infrastructures

Further information

News

Research, English

Extreme Aridity in the Hyperarid Core of the Atacama Desert Began Around 45 Million Years Ago

A new study provides evidence that extreme aridity in the hyperarid core of the Atacama Desert began approximately 45 million years ago, thus significantly earlier than previously assumed. The findings refine current models of desert formation and offer new perspectives on the long-term evolution of one of Earth’s most extreme environments.

Research, English

Politics plays a role in finding a partner

A new sociological study shows that party affiliation matters when it comes to dating in the U.S. – but not just for political reasons

Research, English

People who are aware of the advantages for both parties are more likely to ask for advice

When one person asks the other for advice, both sides stand to gain because the person being asked feels valued and has access to new insights themselves. This knowledge also benefits companies in the long term

Academic Career

The career development of our academics at all stages of their careers is a central concern for us. The university has established various facilities that provide individual support and advice during all qualification phases.

Foto: Sitzende Person dreht sich lachend zu einer anderen Person.

Academic Career

Albertus Magnus Center

Career at the University of Cologne

This is important to us

Academic Principles

Equal Opportunities

Sustainability

Partnerships

Services for Scientists

The University of Cologne has created a broad spectrum of support for research and researchers: from internal funding programs to comprehensive support for third-party funded projects to the development of interdisciplinary skills.

Services and funding

Welcome Centre for international Scientists

Introducing ourselves

Vice-Rector

The Vice-Rector for Research is responsible for the strategic advancement of excellent research at the University of Cologne.