Scientific Career and Parenthood
Reconciling an academic career and family responsibilities is often a challenge, all the more so against the backdrop of fixed-term employment contracts and high pressure to be mobile and publish.
Scientific Career and Parenthood addresses this topic and provides expert insight into legal issues surrounding fixed-term employment contracts (Wissenschaftszeitvertragsgesetz, WissZeitVG) and the effects on parental leave, for example. In the subsequent panel discussion, researchers with family responsibilities at different career stages will share their strategies for balancing career and family life.
The annual event aims at sharing information and best practice examples and allows for networking time and further exchange. It is organised in cooperation of the Clusters of Excellence Quantum Universe, CUI: Advanced Imaging of Matter, CLICCS (Climate, Climatic Change, and Society) with the MIN Faculty and the Family Office at the University of Hamburg. The event is held in English.
Thursday, 4 December 2025, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
Venue: Grindelberg 5, 20146 Hamburg
Raum 1012 (first floor)
This year’s program comprises:
1. Lecture: Expert input from the German Rectors' Conference (HRK) and overview of the legal options for family-related time-outs in fixed-term employment contracts (WissZeitVG).
2. Panel discussion: Four researchers of different status groups share their personal strategies for balancing career and family. They will talk about the support they receive and the challenges they face.
3. Networking: You will have the opportunity to ask questions and exchange ideas over snacks and drinks. Information tables from the Welcome Service and Universität Hamburg's Family Office will also be available.