Helmholtz Investigator Groups
At the UFZ, excellent, collaborative, and diverse research teams are at the heart of our mission. We aim for excellence in science, in world-class research infrastructures, and in knowledge transfer that makes a difference. Guided by our strategic priorities, we invite excellent researchers to jointly apply together with the UFZ for Helmholtz Investigator Groups (HIG / Standard Track).
HIG are a funding instrument of the Helmholtz Association to attract and support outstanding early-career researchers in establishing independent research groups at Helmholtz Centers. The program provides joint funding by the Helmholtz Association and the UFZ for a period of five years. If the evaluation at the end of the funding period is positive, the successful candidate will be offered a permanent position.
Open HIG Announcement
This UFZ call will outline thematic tracks derived from the UFZ’s scientific strategy and thematic priorities. Applicants may submit their corresponding project ideas. The most promising proposals will be shortlisted, and the respective applicants will be invited to develop a joint application with the UFZ for submission under the Helmholtz HIG call.
Key aspects of the program:
Long-term commitment. After the fourth year of the funding period, the performance and potential of the candidate and the group is evaluated by the UFZ. The successful candidate will be offered a permanent position.
Leadership development. Group leaders participate in the Helmholtz Leadership Academy.
Academic integration. Close collaboration with a university partner is supported, including opportunities for teaching experience and PhD supervision.
You are eligible, if you...
- ... are two to six years of academic age, calculated as years after receiving the doctoral degree. The academic age can be adapted for a couple of reasons, including:
- Maternity / parental leave
- Personal hardships, including severe illness
- Clinical training or full-time employment in the industry
- ... have at least six continuous months of research experience outside Germany
- ... are currently not employed at the UFZ or you have joined the UFZ only recently
The application procedure contains two stages: a first selection at UFZ level and a final selection at Helmholtz level.
The current call is linked further up on this page.
No open call for proposals? We would still love to hear more about your project idea! Please get in touch with us.
Looking for something else? Below you will find links to similar UFZ pages.