As an agile support department of the Rectorate, we initiate and manage strategically important projects and carry out ongoing tasks of university-wide relevance – in a participatory, interdisciplinary and evidence-based manner.
The University of Münster stands for academic excellence grounded in disciplinary depth, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a vibrant, open research culture. Our excellence strategy is designed for the long term and extends far beyond participation in Germany’s national Excellence Strategy program. Although the University of Münster is not currently included in the “Universities of Excellence” funding line, we remain firmly committed to creating an innovative, internationally visible research environment. To achieve this, we rely on enabling structures that support outstanding research in all its forms – from individual projects to large international consortia.
The University of Münster promotes excellent research across disciplinary boundaries. Clearly defined Profile Areas, Emerging Fields, and transfer-oriented Impact Areas contribute to shaping a sustainable and strategically aligned research profile. New scientific impulses are purposefully integrated, while existing strengths are continuously developed.
Since November 2023, the University of Münster has been a member of Ulysseus, one of currently 64 European university networks funded by the European Commission and the EU as part of Erasmus+.
The vision of Ulysseus is to develop an European university based on the European values of social cohesion and respect for human rights. The alliance firmly believes that European universities should be open to the world, institutions of solidarity beyond European borders.
The EU Mentoring Network at the University of Münster provides structured support for outstanding researchers at career stages R2 and R3 in securing funding from the European Research Council (ERC), with a focus on ERC Starting and Consolidator Grants. Membership in the network is subject to a selection process. The EU Mentoring Network was initiated by the Vice-Rector for Research, Professor Dr Monika Stoll, and Professor Dr Ryan Gilmour, who also chairs the programme.
Applicants for ERC Grants are professionally supported by a dedicated mentoring team. Each team consists of two experienced researchers, as well as consultants from Münster-based European Research Services GmbH (ERS), who bring extensive expertise in ERC proposal advising. Complementing this is a one-year programme featuring workshops, advisory discussions, and networking formats.
Role of the Zukunftslabor: The Zukunftslabor coordinates the EU Mentoring Network. It oversees the selection process for mentees, organises the annual programme, and manages network activities both within the EU Mentoring Network and with external stakeholders.
Which are the next walls to fall? Everything at Falling Walls revolves around this key question. As a Council Partner, the University of Münster is involved in the annual Science Summit and creates space for outstanding talent in the Falling Walls Lab Münster. This is how we promote innovation and actively help shape the future of tomorrow.