Not all academic researchers choose to pursue a career at a university. With renowned research institutes and a vibrant economy, Bavaria offers excellent alternative career prospects.
Research Jobs in Academia
Bavaria’s non-university research institutes are always on the lookout for top candidates to join them in their pursuit of innovation in science and engineering, and in responding to social issues. The Max Planck Society, the Leibniz Association, the Helmholtz Association, and the Fraunhofer Gesellschaft all have important centers in Bavaria.
Research Jobs in Industry
An integral feature of German universities is close cooperation with different partners, especially partners in industry. As an academically trained researcher in Bavaria, you will develop your own portfolio of skills within the university setting, from scientific skills to project management or even team leadership. Having a range of desirable skills can make you a competitive candidate for industry jobs in Bavaria.
Bavaria’s private sector offers a dynamic working environment for academically trained researchers who are looking to put their knowledge and skills to practical use. From big companies—like Adidas and Puma, Siemens and Infineon, BMW and Audi, Allianz and Munich Re, Airbus, and the Linde Group—to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with a global impact, research plays an important role in business and industry.
- Invest in Bavaria provides an overview of the range of sectors in Bavaria in which researchers may find positions in industry.
- Bayern International offers a company database of enterprises where highly skilled workers can find job opportunities.
- The Cluster Initiative Bavaria promotes cooperation between companies and research institutes.
Boost Your Business
Victor Solis did his PhD at the Gene Center Munich, LMU. Today, he is one of two CEOs of EpiQMAx, and the main software developer and data analyst there. The company analyzes epigenetic markers used for drug development. Its offices can be found at the Innovation and Start-Up Center for Biotechnology, Campus Martinsried.
Generous Support for Start-ups
Bavaria has a thriving start-up scene. Thanks to its strong focus on innovation and growth, the region has become especially attractive to entrepreneurs with new ideas.
If you have a promising business concept or product that you developed during your doctorate, you will find the support you need to get your company off the ground. All Bavarian universities can offer start-up advice to entrepreneurially minded students and scientists—some of them even have established their own “start-up centers” for this purpose. Support can take the form of special counseling, coaching, or advice regarding financial help.
Looking for Start-Up Help?
- The FLÜGGE program specifically targets “spin-off” companies that are based on research developed at universities.
- Invest in Bavaria offers the “Ois Easy” start-up package for international entrepreneurs.
- The federal EXIST program provides financial support for innovative start-up projects and promotes the transfer of research in business.
- For a comprehensive overview of the support available to entrepreneurs in Bavaria, visit Gründerland Bayern.
