Research Profile

The University of Münster’s research profile combines disciplinary excellence with inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration to address societal challenges, foster creativity, and drive innovation.

Dynamic Profile Development and RefinementNew scientific impulses are continuously integrated while strategically important areas are specifically strengthened. This process is data-informed, participatory, and supported by the Future Lab (Zukunftslabor). Researchers from across faculties and disciplines come together to identify and expand shared themes, challenges, and research perspectives.

Our Aims

  • Joint identification and discussion of specific support needs
  • Strategic support for the medium- and long-term development of potentially excellent large-scale interdisciplinary consortia
  • Promotion of an open, vibrant culture of exchange and identification with the University’s research profile
  • Sustainable strengthening of interdisciplinary collaborative research

Structural Elements of the Research Profile

  • Profile Areas bundle outstanding research expertise from multiple disciplines and faculties. They connect related research projects, teaching and transfer activities, shared infrastructures, and both internal and external collaborations.
  • Emerging Fields provide a structured platform for innovative research approaches with high development potential. They support cross-faculty collaboration and targeted growth – especially in early stages, before major third-party funding is secured.
  • Impact Areas bring together the University’s most societally impactful interdisciplinary strengths. In currently four overarching thematic fields, researchers collaborate to develop solutions to complex contemporary challenges – with measurable cultural, technological, political, or societal impact.

The Role of the Future Lab

The Future Lab coordinates the University’s ongoing profile development process. It provides early-stage support for emerging research initiatives, facilitates networking and collaboration, and offers both strategic and financial assistance – for example, through the Topical Programmes funding line.

Get Involved

Would you like to help shape a Profile Area, Emerging Field, or Impact Area – or contribute ideas for the strategic development of the University’s research profile? We would love to hear from you: zukunftslabor@uni-muenster.de

 

Graphical overview of the research profile at the University of Münster, with disciplinary excellence at its centre, embedded in a collaborative research culture and surrounded by Profile Areas, Emerging Fields, and Impact Areas.
In order to learn more about the University of Muenster's research profile, please click on the graphic
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