Many of the complex phenomena of our time can no longer be adequately understood solely through the lens of one discipline. Because of this, the Central Academic Institutes approach research topics in an interdisciplinary manner. Each of the institutes pool knowledge and resources from different faculties and embrace innovative research initiatives. In addition, the institutes each work within a network of national and international partner institutions. Their members share research findings with actors in academia, politics, civil society and business. Each institute supports young researchers through different programmes.
Researches the scientific foundations of cognitive technical systems that combine interactive social skills, artificial intelligence and a capacity to adjust to changing situations.
Pools biotechnological research at the University and designs cell factories for valuable products based on genome analyses, bioinformatics and synthetic biology.
Conducts research into the integration of interactive intelligent systems in the workplace and pools application-oriented basic research for transfer to industry.
Explores how mathematical modelling can be applied across a range of disciplines, such as evolutionary biology, condensed matter physics, and statistical sciences.
Assesses changing attitudes in society through social science surveys and analyses the consequences society in terms of social cohesion, participation, democracy, and peace.
Conducts interdisciplinary research in economics and social sciences using mathematical and algorithmic methods.
Examines the reproduction and impact of societal gender hierarchies, engages with broader issues of inequality and takes gender diversity into account.
Responsible for innovative, research-oriented teacher education, working together with the relevant faculties.
As Bielefeld University’s Institute for Advanced Study, the ZiF fosters outstanding and innovative research projects. It welcomes researchers from all countries and disciplines.