Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU) stands for: innovation · research · diversity and passion. Established in 1743, it is a leading innovator within Europe. This is reflected in our motto “Moving Knowledge”. Spread over the three cities of Erlangen, Nuremberg and Fürth, more than 6,700 staff members research, study and work here. Experience FAU and find out what makes it special!
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FAU’s special features
With locations across Erlangen, Nuremberg and Fürth, we are a leading light among the universities in Germany. Our 6,700 employees ensure that our approximately 39,600 students benefit from a comprehensive education where studying and personal development are equally encouraged. We offer a wide range of courses in our five faculties – Humanities, Social Sciences and Theology, Business, Economics and Law, Medicine, Engineering and Sciences. We are one of only seven universities throughout Germany to meet the strict criteria of a university which offers the entire spectrum of academic disciplines. Furthermore, we are committed to providing a first class education and cutting-edge research in all disciplines. We pursue innovation in everything that we do.
FAU is one of the leading research universities in Germany. We achieve pioneering results thanks to the efforts of roughly 4,000 researchers representing a comprehensive research portfolio covering the key topics of freedom and responsibility, life and health, sustainability and resilience. This excellence is reflected in prestigious awards such as Alexander von Humboldt professorships or Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz prizes. Researchers from FAU have also contributed to laying the foundations for four Nobel prizes. Each year, our researchers gain top places in the subject rankings of reputable institutions and are among the most highly cited experts in their disciplines. Extensive funding from third parties, including the German Research Foundation (DFG), totaling 260 million euros is additional proof of our excellence in research.
In a global comparison, we are the leading innovator in Germany and number two in Europe. FAU is home to pioneering solutions and inventions. From laying the mathematical cornerstone for today’s computer tomography to developing the MP3 format – our researchers have had a decisive influence on the modern world. Each year we register over 100 inventions and more than 70 patents. Since the year 2000, these have led to more than 180 successful spin-offs. However, innovation relies on collaboration. We therefore nurture a strong network of world-class partners in academia, business and society to allow us to implement our ideas in practice and actively shape the future.
With 277 degree programs, five faculties and roughly 39,600 students, we are the largest educational institute in the region and have a key role in training the academics of the future. We teach subject skills, encourage critical thinking and create space for interdisciplinary networks. Our comprehensive approach to education is clearly reflected in the quality of our teaching, which is regularly confirmed in national and international rankings. With top ratings in the Times Higher Education ranking or the QS World University Subject Ranking, FAU takes its place among the most renowned education establishments across the globe. In addition, our continuing education platform for lifelong learning FAU Academy offers a wide range of subjects for people of all ages.
With 500 partnerships with universities in more than 70 countries and an international community with 1,330 researchers and over 4,000 students from across the globe, we act on a global level. We nurture a multicultural student and working community, encourage our staff to participate in international staff mobility, and strengthen global networks and intercultural competencies through research partnerships and student exchanges.
We are a future-oriented university and our decisions and investments are guided with a clear focus on long-term success and sustainability. Our thinking and actions are guided at all times by social, ecological and economic considerations. Our research infrastructure is continually expanding. The inauguration ceremony for our new lecture hall complexes and the ground-breaking ceremony for the new hi-tech building for Technical Chemistry are major milestones in our site development.
We pride ourselves on offering a unique working environment. With approximately 6,700 employees from a wide range of different professions, our work is just as diverse as it is important. Working closely together with students, alumni and external partners is an enriching experience and is a constant source of fresh ideas and perspectives. Every contribution counts: Together, we create, share and use knowledge.
We stand unequivocally for equal opportunities for all university members, irrespective of their gender, sexual identity, ethnic background, religion, social background, age or health issues. We take an active stance against discrimination and encourage a healthy balance between work and family commitments. FAU also demonstrates its commitment to the cause with numerous initiatives for equal opportunities, diversity management and balancing work and family commitments.
Our employees are paid in accordance with the collective bargaining agreement for the public service of the German Länder (TV-L), or the Bavarian Public Servants Remuneration Act (BayBesG) for those who are public servants. These regulations clearly state exactly what you will earn and include regular pay rises. In addition, employees receive an annual bonus, as well as additional financial support through occupational pension schemes and an asset accumulation savings scheme. You can also rely on FAU’s staff councils for representing your interests.
Flexible
FAU offers extensive flexitime arrangements and working time models tailored to your needs to give you the flexibility to fit in with all your other commitments. In addition, anyone who does not have to attend their place of work in person can spend up to half of their working hours working remotely.
Reliable
30 days vacation each calendar year (when working a 5 day week), plus days off on December 24 and 31, and a closure between Christmas and New Year gives employees a genuine opportunity to switch off and relax.
Family friendly
At FAU, balancing work and family commitments is a priority. The wide range of services offered by the Family Service range from childcare to holiday and emergency care to providing family workspaces and, wherever possible, the opportunity to work from home.
Appreciative
As well as secure jobs and extensive occupational health management, FAU strengthens the community spirit with regular gatherings and events. We appreciate our members’ achievements, encourage a leadership culture based on respect, and motivate our employees with attractive opportunities for continuing education and professional development, as well as the FAU+ services.
Good transportation connections
No matter which direction you come from, FAU’s locations in Erlangen, Nuremberg and Fürth are conveniently located and well connected to the public transport network. With a new mobility concept, the University is striving to boost sustainability and improve connections to the public transport network while also encouraging other alternative means of transportation. FAU’s charm lies not only in the fact that it is an easily accessible urban hub, but also in its proximity to the countryside in the local region known as Franconian Switzerland. This mixture of city vibes and beautiful countryside makes our locations particularly desirable and creates an attractive place to live for students and staff alike.
At FAU, we support all our employees, regardless of which stage they are at in their career! We are convinced that closely linking specialist and personal skills is essential for launching and developing careers.
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Training courses and professional development at FAU
As well as secure jobs and extensive occupational health management, FAU strengthens the community spirit with regular gatherings and events. We appreciate our members’ achievements, encourage a leadership culture based on respect, and motivate our employees with attractive opportunities for continuing education and professional development, as well as the FAU+ services.
