As an international researcher coming to or working at the institute you will receive support with handling the burdens of bureaucracy to enable you to concentrate on your research career from the very beginning.
Joining the institute
The International Office Managers support all international staff, from interns to new directors, in navigating German bureaucracy, as well as in settling into life in Tübingen.
We will get in contact with you as soon as we learn of your coming to the Institute. When you get here, we will arrange a welcome meeting with you, we will discuss what you need to take care of in your first days and weeks in Germany, and will answer any other questions you might have. We will also be happy to provide you with support throughout your stay here.
Daily life (ranging from finding missed products to travelling, finding a doctor and understanding cultural differences)
Onboarding & Integration
Institute Insider
Incoming doctoral researchers get partnered with an ‘Institute Insider’. This buddy from outside your department will share their experiences of coming to Tübingen and the institute, and give you advice and support for moving and settling in.
Let’s Schwätz – practice your German at the Institute
Let’s Schwätz is a bi-weekly informal meet up for both German learners, beginners or advanced, and German native speakers. We pick a different topic to talk about for every session and then split up into small groups to practice. If you don’t feel ready to speak German, don’t worry, just come along and listen to others!
Language tandems
Learn a language and make a new friend at the Institute – that’s the idea behind our language tandems. Simply let us know what your native language is and which language you would like to practice, and we will try to team you up with somebody. It doesn’t have to involve German: there are so many different nationalities at our institute, the combinations of possible languages are endless!
Alexander Tyakht Departmental Group Leader in the Department of Microbiome Science
“To me, the International office team has been exceedingly supportive in dealing with various everyday queries and tasks that arise when relocating to Germany from abroad. From finding accommodation and applying for residence permits to finding schools for my children and receiving child benefits. I really appreciate the enthusiasm with which the International Office Managers have assisted me and my family in getting comfortably settled!”
Postdoc from China
“I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for the tremendous help and support the International Office has provided me with in my daily life, and for the unwavering enthusiasm, patience, and dedicated efforts in assisting us. Their constant availability and efficiency in addressing our concerns have been truly remarkable. With the assistance of the International Office, we were able to swiftly resolve issues with electricity and internet in our new home, allowing us to settle in and adapt to the new culture and lifestyle seamlessly.
I am truly grateful for the exceptional level of care and assistance provided by the International Office. Your dedication has made a significant positive impact on my overall experience, and I am fortunate to have such a supportive team behind me.”
