Early Career

Shape your professional journey in an inspiring and supportive environment at the Microverse Cluster.

Our mission centers on early career researchers, offering a research-oriented, interdisciplinary training program with expertise from Friedrich Schiller University and partner institutes.

We promote international exchange, gender equality, diversity, and work-life balance as fundamental principles. The Microverse Spirit, integral to our culture, fosters an inclusive and dynamic environment where you can thrive both professionally and personally.

Studierende in der Bibliothek
Picture: Jens Meyer, FSU

Supporting structures for early-career researchers

Supporting early-career scientists is key in the Microverse Cluster: That's why we emphasize holistic and individualized support for scientists – from their studies to leading their own junior research groups. In this context, we have created tailored support structures for our Microverse members, including mentorship programs, funding opportunities, and access to cutting-edge research facilities:

For Master Students

Jena has become a highly attractive research environment for research and training focused on microbial communication and optics/photonics. The Friedrich Schiller University offers 13 Master’s degree programs specifically aligned with the Microverse Cluster’s research themes:

Studierende während einer Vorlesung
Picture: Jens Meyer, FSU
For Doctoral and Postdoctoral Researchers: Graduate Schools

The Jena School for Microbial Communication and the Abbe School of Photonics offer essential training programs for doctoral and postdoctoral researchers within the Microverse Cluster. The Microverse Early Career Program coordinates interdisciplinary training, mentoring, and support. Discover how we nurture the next generation of scientists.

Working in the lab. (Photo: Jan-Peter Kasper)
For Junior Research Group Leaders

Additionally, we are dedicated to fostering talent by incorporating promising junior research group leaders into Jena's renowned research institutions. By inviting these exceptional individuals, we not only enhance our collective expertise but also bring new perspectives and innovative research approaches to the dynamic framework of the Balance of the Microverse initiative.

Find out more about our Junior research group leaders.

Looking for a new job perspective? Discover exciting opportunities here. 

Researchers in Exchange
Microverse Researchers

Contact persons

Angela Köhler

Angela Köhler

Executive Manager

+49 3641 532-1320

Katja Präfcke

Administrative Manager

Jena School for Microbial Communication

+49 3641 94954-1