Welcome to the Microverse!
As a doctoral researcher or postdoc, you’re joining a dynamic community exploring microbial life. This platform provides essential information for living in Jena and Germany, along with updates on news, events, and career opportunities. Start here to settle in, connect, and thrive—both scientifically and socially.
Thanks for joining us – the Microverse is better with you in it!
Discover Living in Jena
Jena offers an ideal environment for early-career researchers, combining a strong academic landscape with a high quality of life. You’ll find a well-connected city with short distances, green surroundings, and a vibrant research community.
The University of Jena’s Welcome Point for International Researchers provides detailed guidance on living in Jena, including housing options, health insurance, childcare, and everyday essentials. The city’s official website offers insights into local services, family support, and cultural offerings and the Jena Welcome Center supports skilled professionals and researchers with integration into both professional and social life. Whether you're staying for a few months, several years or the rest of your life, Jena combines professional opportunities with a comfortable and community-oriented lifestyle.
Navigate Life in Germany
Relocating to Germany as an international researcher is an exciting step—and having the right support can make your transition smoother. For broader practical guidance, the multilingual platform Handbook Germany covers everyday topics like healthcare, childcare, and finances. The federal portal Make it in Germany is a great resource for work-related immigration, while Euraxess Germany provides tailored support for mobile researchers. Together, these resources offer a reliable foundation for building your new life in Jena and beyond.
Need a Buddy?
For our new arriving doctoral and postdoctoral researchers we offer a „Buddy Program“.
These buddies are to accompany our new members during their first days in Jena and are contact persons for all questions concerning the beginning of your work and life here. The buddies may help for example with orientation in the city and at the university, help with enrolment or going along to local authorities.
Of course, the coordinators of the Microverse Cluster and the JSMC are always available for questions and help, especially regarding visa issues, organisational matters at the University of Jena or in the city of Jena. Our buddies are there to give the new arrivals a good start and, if necessary, a little cultural orientation.
If you’re interested in becoming or getting a buddy, please contact Silvia.
Contact persons
If you have questions about working and living in Jena, your contract, or general onboarding matters, our contact persons are here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to support you as you settle in and get started.
