VISION
Providing Knowledge for a Sustainable Future
UFZ is a world-leading institution in environmental research. We pioneer innovative solutions to environmental challenges. By advancing evidence-based approaches, we support societal transformations toward sustainability. Our work contributes to a livable, resilient planet, creating a sustainable and just future for current and future generations.
MISSION
Our Natural Foundations
Biodiversity, healthy ecosystems, clean water, and a stable climate are the basis of life. Today, humanity faces the triple challenge of biodiversity loss, climate change, and pollution. Our team is united by the goal of developing science-based solutions to protect and use our natural resources sustainably, while safeguarding the health, prosperity, and well-being of all who depend on them.
From Knowledge to Action
We measure our success by our impact on science and society. We pursue excellence through a pluralistic approach, combining academic achievement with practical expertise and implementation know-how. As a world-leading research centre, we identify urgent environmental challenges at local, regional and global levels. We develop, test, and help implement innovative technological, political, and societal solutions for policymakers, business, and society as a whole. In times of environmental crises, we act as science-based first responders in strong networks, providing rapid assessments and empowering decision-makers across all sectors of society.
Collaborative and Inclusive Approaches
Our work is systemic, collaborative, and transdisciplinary. We bring together the natural, technical, data and social sciences, working closely with a diverse network of partners from the local to the global scale. By fostering a plurality of perspectives, we contribute to the implementation and advancement of international agreements and programs. We are committed to building capacity worldwide and take pride in our alumni as they assume responsibility in science, industry, and society around the globe.
Innovative Infrastructure and Digital Leadership
UFZ combines cutting-edge physical and digital research infrastructure with advanced data science and AI approaches, and thereby enables world-class research along the entire knowledge value chain. We gather information through observatories, experimentation sites and analytical facilities to gain a fundamental understanding of social-ecological relationships. This is complemented by technology platforms and real-world laboratories, which facilitate the development of innovations in close collaboration with stakeholders. Demonstration sites showcase science-based solutions and their tangible impact.
Honesty, Openness, and Respect
We create pathways and narratives for positive futures, ensuring that no one is left behind. Our interactions with societal actors are shaped by honesty, openness, and respect for diverse perspectives. We think outside the box, foster trust, and act as honest brokers with the highest scientific integrity. We are dedicated to supporting current and future generations, inspiring and educating at all levels, and continually advancing our own capabilities for the common good.
People, Values, and Ambition
Our culture builds on integrity, good scientific practice, and an attitude of learning from success and failure. It goes hand in hand with an ambitious, bold spirit of creativity, excellence and achievement. We foster team spirit and a fair, inclusive and safe working environment where diversity with its wealth of experiences and abilities meets with openness and critical debate. We aim for an enabling working culture in which all colleagues advance professionally and with a high sense of responsibility to unfold their full potential and contribute their strengths to achieving our shared goals.