Skip to content
Technical University of Munich

Research, Family and Fairness Fest

Sport- und Gesundheitswissenschaften, W00BBR-newscat-exercisebiology |

On 23.10.2025 the DFG-funded research units FOR 5560 “Crosstalk between B cell metabolism and signaling” and FOR 5795 “HyperMet” jointly hosted the Research, Family and Fairness Fest at the TUM Campus im Olympiapark. The event aimed to foster exchange on disability, integration, and work-life balance in academia, while also strengthening collaboration between the two metabolism-focused consortia.

The program opened with welcoming remarks by Prof. Dr. Julia Jellusova and Prof. Dr. Henning Wackerhage, followed by a series of talks and experience reports structured around three key themes:

  1. Research and Fairness
    • Afia Atta-Agyemang (DFG Representative for Disabled Persons) introduced DFG support structures for researchers with disabilities and the consideration on the part of DFG.
    • Jasmin Arnold (PhD student, Klinikum rechts der Isar) shared a personal experience report on neurodiversity while working in science, highlighting both challenges and strategies for inclusive academic environments.
  2. Research and Immigration
    • Laura Merker (TUM Graduate School) and Nanna Gehrlein (TUM Global & Alumni Office) presented institutional support for international researchers.
    • Kristina Fedorova (TranslaTUM) contributed an experience report on challenges and difficulties as a scientist in the German bureaucracy.
  3. Research and Family
    • Dr. Martina Postorino (TUM Family Service) outlined the university’s comprehensive services for students and staff with caregiving responsibilities, including childcare, flexible work arrangements, and support for caring for relatives.
    • PD Dr. Maike Buchner (TranslaTUM) provided insights into balancing a research career with family life, including her self-taught lessons along the way.

The event concluded with an open discussion and informal networking session, offering the 26 participants from the fields of cancer research, exercise biology, musculoskeletal medicine, and biosensors the opportunity to exchange ideas and build connections across research units.

The event delivered extensive information and personal insights into the structural and individual challenges faced by researchers, while also showcasing institutional efforts to foster a more inclusive and supportive academic environment.

◄ Back to: Home
To top