East German University could potentially be granted status of University of Excellence, with Jena as the potential candidate for this recognition. - East German University Could Potentially Gain 'University of Excellence' Status, with Jena being the potential recipient.
Friedrich-Schiller University Jena In Line to Become Leading Eastern German University
The Friedrich-Schiller University Jena is on track to become one of the top universities in Eastern Germany, following a decision by the German Research Foundation (DFG). The decision, announced in Bonn, is part of the "Excellence Strategy of the Federal Government and the Länder."
Thuringia's largest university has secured funding for two interdisciplinary research projects, known as excellence clusters. These projects, financially supported for seven years, are a stepping stone towards attaining the status of an excellent university. According to the DFG, 15 universities across Germany have the opportunity to apply for such a status in the future.
Thuringia's Minister President Mario Voigt lauded the selection of the two Jena clusters, calling it a "strong signal for innovation, research, and the future." He views this as a significant success for Thuringia's science and innovation sector.
The university will receive funding for its existing excellence cluster "Balance of the Microverse," focusing on microorganism research, and for the new excellence cluster "Imaginamics," investigating conflict and debate culture in contemporary societal coexistence. A total of 539 million euros annually is allocated for 70 clusters nationwide, with funding coming from the federal government and the Länder.
Thuringia's Education Minister Christian Tischner described the development as a "milestone for our Thuringian science location." He anticipates that Thuringia will grow not only in rankings but also in societal relevance and scientific excellence due to the two clusters. Tischner expressed his commitment to supporting the Friedrich-Schiller University, encouraging it to apply for the title of an excellent university in the next phase.
University President Andreas Marx emphasized that the success underscores the national and international competitiveness of the university. He believes that the multi-million funding of the two clusters will boost Thuringia as an international top research location. In autumn 2025, the university plans to apply for the title of an excellent university, entering the competition with confidence.
The decision on funding for new excellent universities from 2027 will be made by the Science Council next year. Currently, the status of an excellent university in Eastern Germany is held only by a Berlin university consortium and the TU Dresden.
Under the "Excellence Strategy of the Federal Government and the Länder," a university must meet specific requirements to attain "University of Excellence" status. These include having at least two Clusters of Excellence, demonstrating strong research capabilities, maintaining a strategic approach to scientific excellence, having a strong international presence, and undergoing rigorous peer review and evaluation. The strategy aims to enhance Germany's position as a center of science by fostering top-level research and sharpening the profiles of participating universities.
- In alignment with the University's aspirations, potential community aid could focus on enhancing educational-and-self-development opportunities, such as vocational training, which fosters personal-growth, career-development, and skills-training for a more prominent role in society.
- As the Friedrich-Schiller University Jena progresses towards becoming an excellent university, offering additional vocational training programs could strengthen its interdisciplinary research competencies and further bolster its status in the field of learning and innovation.
- Acknowledging the university's commitment to scientific excellence and its strategic approach to research, it would be beneficial for the community to offer ongoing vocational training in areas like teaching and research methodologies, promoting the continuous learning and growth of faculty members and researchers.
