Creating knowledge

The University of Cologne is one of the largest and most research-intensive universities in Germany. With around 9,000 employees, we face social, political and environmental challenges together. Through excellent research, innovative teaching, and clear values, we shape change – regionally, nationally, and internationally.

Our research is hands-on, interdisciplinary, and bears considerable social relevance. We develop new therapeutic approaches for age-related diseases such as Alzheimer’s, research new materials for sustainable technologies and analyse social behaviour in order to better understand economic and political processes. Our work in plant breeding supports global food security, while our start-up initiatives translate knowledge into practical solutions.

We promote innovation, diversity and internationality and are looking for colleagues who are eager to shape the future with us. Whether in science, technology, or administration – the work you do truly counts.
Welcome to the team

Our structured onboarding and welcome events help new members find their way, build connections, and get off to a great start at our university.

Science at the University of Cologne

Targeted support for career paths in science

At the Albertus Magnus Center, we offer an innovative programme for staff development during different qualification phases. It creates opportunities within the scientific community and beyond – in fields like politics, business, and society.
Developing leadership skills

Academic managers are facing growing demands: acquiring third-party funding, managing teams, and digital teaching. We provide you with support by way of coaching, training and exchange formats throughout your career – from doctorate to professorship.

Strengthening interdisciplinary key competences

Our extensive training programmes cover aspects such as communication, project and process management, personnel management and diversity, and prepare you for current and future scientific and social demands. They are generally free of charge for our researchers.

Promoting gender equality and diversity

Diversity drives innovation. This is why we specifically promote gender equality and create programmes for various target groups, such as women in science, first-time academics and parents. Our offers for skill development are designed for both managers and employees.

Technology & administration

Competent partners supporting science

Our technical and administrative staff ensure that research, teaching and degree programmes run smoothly. No matter which area you join us in – your contribution is crucial to the success of the university.

Structured staff development 

We promote your professional and personal development through regular consultation, internal and external training, coaching, mentoring and team development programmes. We care about your professional development.

Flexible working time models

Many employees already enjoy the option of switching between the office and working from home. The aim is to achieve a better work-life balance, greater job satisfaction and an attractive working environment.

Promoting exchange, broadening horizons

We organize job shadowing to provide insights into other areas in both administration and academia and to encourage an appreciation of cooperation. We promote international skills, for example through the ERASMUS programme.
 

Dynamism & Innovation

Whether it's high-tech, start-up support, or digital projects, our university is a place of ideas:

GATEWAY – the Excellence Start-up Center promotes start-ups from the university and the city. 

COPT.ZENTRUM – connects business and research in organic electronics. 

Digital Hub Cologne – brings science and small and medium-sized enterprises together in digitalization.