Excellence Strategy of the University of Münster

The University of Münster stands for academic excellence grounded in disciplinary depth, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a vibrant, open research culture. As one of Germany’s largest comprehensive universities, we bring together a wide range of disciplines – from small subject areas to large-scale research consortia – within a collaborative infrastructure that fosters cross-disciplinary thinking.

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.

Guided by the motto “inspiring minds and empowering collaboration,” the University of Münster invests in: 

• Transparent career pathways and competitive research infrastructure
• Interconnected, open-ended research spaces
• Strategically aligned alliances and partnerships
• Governance structures that strengthen both academic initiative and collaboration

At the heart of our efforts is the expansion of inter- and transdisciplinary frameworks around global future challenges, brought together in our four Impact Areas.

Clusters of Excellence

With the approval of Cluster of Excellence Mathematics Münster on May 22, 2025 (funding period 2026–2033), the University of Münster has made a strong statement in support of research excellence. We are consistently working to establish additional Clusters of Excellence for future funding rounds.

At the University of Münster, Clusters of Excellence are more than just funding instruments – they exemplify our capacity for collaborative research and the interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary strength of our academic community. In their design and support, we place particular emphasis on:

• Interactive development processes between academic cultures
• Sustainable integration into the university’s overarching strategy
• International visibility of outstanding research teams

These clusters make a vital contribution to shaping the university’s research profile, supporting early-career researchers, and positioning the University of Münster as a collaborative research hub of international standing.

Role of the Future Lab

The Future Lab coordinates the University of Münster’s excellence strategy in close collaboration with the Rectorate. It provides both strategic and operational support to clusters and cluster initiatives, oversees key development processes, and ensures alignment with the university’s overall strategy. Through formats such as task forces, SWOT analyses, and thematic workshops, it connects disciplinary cultures, member groups, and external expertise – creating space for collaborative, research-driven strategy development.