About Us

The Helmholtz Association researches major challenges to secure the future of our society. With almost 34,000 staff in 18 research centres, the Helmholtz Association is Germany’s largest scientific organisation.

The Helmholtz Association is dedicated to pursuing the long-term research goals of state and society, and to maintaining and improving the livelihoods of the population. In order to do this, the Helmholtz Association carries out top-level research to identify and explore the major challenges facing society, science and the economy. Its work is divided into six strategic research fields: Energy; Earth and Environment; Health; Key Technologies; Structure of Matter; and Aeronautics, Space and Transport. The Helmholtz Association brings together 18 scientific-technical and biological-medical research centres. With some 32,698 employees and an annual budget of approximately €3.8 billion, the Helmholtz Association is Germany’s largest scientific organisation. Its work follows in the tradition of the great natural scientist Hermann von Helmholtz (1821-1894).

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Mission and Strategy

Through top-rate research we contribute towards solving the major and urgent questions, that is our mission. As a partner in the Joint Initiative for Research and Innovation, the Helmholtz Association is committed to doing its share for growth and prosperity.

To the Mission

To the Joint Initiative for Innovation and Research

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Organisation and Structure

The Helmholtz Association is structured as follows:

To the Structure & Governance

To the Assembly of Members

To the Senate and Senate Commissions

To the President

To the Executive Committee

To the Head Office

To the International Offices

To the Helmholtz Centres

To the Statutes

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Facts and Figures

This is where we show what resources are needed to carry out top-class research. You will additionally be able to find some key indicators on what the Helmholtz Association achieves with the potential which it has at its disposal.
Information on Helmholtz Association funding and costs, staff and activities at a glance.

To the Facts and Figures