Before submitting your application, we recommend consulting the Service Centre for Research and Transfer. You can find the appropriate contact person here (FSU Jena) and for Jena University Hospital hereExternal link (JUH Jena).
At the core of strategically impactful measures within the LIFE profile is the continuous development of its scientific profile, strengthening research networks, supporting early-career researchers, and enhancing the international visibility of Jena.
Central to this is the network- and structure-building character: Measures aim to create synergies across faculties and disciplines, both within the university and with external partners. This includes collaborations with renowned institutions such as the Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology (HKI), the Leibniz Institute for Age Research – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology (MPI-CE), the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry (MPI-BGC), the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering (IOF), and the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (IPHT), as well as networking potential with the LIGHT and LIBERTY profiles.
Through the following funding lines, the LIFE profile currently supports researchers at the University of Jena in their scientific and coordinating activities to shape the profile.
Illustration for the LIFE-Connect fund
Illustration: Franziska Eberl (Network by pixabay)The LIFE “Connect” funds enable the development of scientific projects that have to potential for successful application for third-party funding. New cooperations between researchers of different groups, institutes and disciplines shall be established to stimulate top-level research.
Please find more information under LIFE "Connect"External link
Project outline information (not exceeding five pages)
1. Please describe the research project you are applying with, including a brief summary.
What are the main objectives of the project? Which scientific questions does the project seek to address? What potential impact could outcomes of the project have?
2. How does the project integrate different disciplines? How will the project foster new collaborations and networking opportunities?
3. How does your research promote sustainability and what larger projects are to be initiated?
4. Please provide a budget plan and a timeline (12 months) outlining the key milestones for the project.
Application via https://apply2.uni-jena.de/en/jobposting/130914aadc098cef70cb4e109eacb5d284686cf60/apply?ref=HomepageExternal link
Illustration LIFE-Conference Fund
Illustration: Dania Rose-Sperling (Conference Illustration by pixabay)Do you want to create opportunities for scientific conversations? The LIFE “Conference” funds will support your planned conference. During the conference, a LIFE satellite event such as a panel discussion or a world café related to the conference topic must be implemented.
Please find more information under LIFE "Conference"External link
LIFE "Assist"-Fund
Illustration: Franziska EberlOur support ensures that you can continue your research even in difficult times. Fast and uncomplicated – so you can focus on other things! This fund helps with unexpected expenses due to illness, pregnancy, or equipment breakdowns that other funding sources do not cover. A co-payment of 25% of the costs is required, and for young researchers, additional support from the chair is expected.
Please find more information under LIFE "Asisst"pdf, 79 kb
Upon approval, the allocated funds are typically available immediately, allowing for prompt initiation of the project.
The approved funds are generally to be utilized within one year from the date of approval (12-month duration).
The execution of the positively evaluated proposals is the sole responsibility of the researchers who submitted the proposal. Throughout the project, the LIFE profile coordinator can provide organizational support to facilitate the project's progress.
By accepting the funding, the responsible researchers commit to delivering a presentation at the LIFE Symposium, sharing their research outcomes and experiences.
LIFE Talent Award
Image: AI generated by Dania Rose-SperlingThe LIFE Talent Award honors outstanding achievements in the life sciences, supporting early-career researchers with a focus on innovation, scientific excellence, and societal impact.
Winners will be announced in early 2026 and participate in LIFE outreach initiatives (social media, website features, interviews).
Information & Application form LIFE "Talent" Awardpdf, 114 kb
Universitätshauptgebäude, Room 1.21
Fürstengraben 1
07743 Jena
Opening hours:
nach Vereinbarung
Universitätshauptgebäude, Room 1.21
Fürstengraben 1
07743 Jena
Room 103
Zwätzengasse 3
07743 Jena
