Excellence Strategy
How the University of Jena strengthens its cutting-edge research
A film about the excellent research, committed teaching and vibrant network of science, business and
Friedrich Schiller University Jena is a dynamic and innovation-driven university centrally located in Germany. With a broad range of disciplines, it shapes the future through excellent research and teaching. Its scientific excellence is reflected in its profile LIGHT. LIFE. LIBERTY., which provides pioneering insights and sustainable solutions for the society of tomorrow. Through close collaborations with leading research institutions, innovative companies, and renowned cultural organizations, it advances interdisciplinary developments.
With around 17,000 students and approximately 10,000 employees, the University defines Jena as a vibrant, internationally connected city of science and innovation. It attracts scholars, scientists, and students of all disciplines from around the world. Together with its local and international partners, the University of Jena has achieved research excellence in its key profile research areas. In this respect, the University’s Cluster of Excellence »Balance of the Microverse« (funded since 2019) represents a hallmark project.
Excellence at the University of Jena
The University of Jena will be represented on the map of the German research landscape with two Clusters of Excellence in the future: As announced today (22 May) by the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the German Science and Humanities Council (WR), the »Balance of the Microverse« Cluster, which was established in 2019, and the new »Imaginamics« Cluster proposal will be funded over the next seven years in the Excellence Strategy of the German federal and state governments. The University of Jena has thus prevailed with its two full proposals in the final round of the competition. With two approved Clusters of Excellence, the University of Jena now fulfils the requirements for an application in the Universities of Excellence funding line and has applied for the title of »University of Excellence« in autumn 2025.
Researching Together
The University of Jena nurtures a distinctive culture of collaboration that drives discoveries vital to our society, our health, and our cultural heritage. No other German city has more research institutions relative to its population than Jena (Städteranking 2023, IW Consult). From Leibniz Prize winner to undergraduate, all members of the University of Jena's community are engaged in the creation of knowledge.
Shaping Transformation
The University of Jena connects researchers, teachers, and students with the common goal of shaping a thriving society. Members of the University community are agents of change and committed to finding new pathways to a healthier and sustainable future. In doing so, they are guided by shared values.
Educating and Qualifying People
The University of Jena is devoted to excellence in teaching and research. Faculty, young researchers, and students are engaged in groundbreaking and interdisciplinary scholarship. With its Graduate Academy, the University of Jena plays a pioneering role in the promotion and support of early career researchers nationwide.
Reflecting on Achievements
Continuously reassessing its international positioning, deriving impulses from data collection, and making success visible—this is how the University of Jena drives its strategic development forward. Its academic community as well as the city of Jena motivate the University to perform at the highest level.
Office of the Vice-President for Research and Innovation
Universitätshauptgebäude, Room 1.23
Fürstengraben 1
07743 Jena
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