Helmholtz Diversity Weeks 2026
Diversity is essential to research and innovation—and it takes many forms. Under the theme “Standing together” we will explore seven dimensions of diversity in seven talks taking place from October 19 to December 6.
Note: The events will take place virtually. Simultaneous interpretation (German-English/English-German) and German sign language interpretation will be provided for all presentations.
Event Dates
Kickoff Event: AI is Changing the World. But for Whom? Artificial Intelligence and Gender
Gender & Gender Identity
Panel Discussion: Diversity and Cohesion in the Helmholtz Association
Panelists: Prof. Dr. Martin Keller (President of the Helmholtz Association), Prof. Dr. Katrin Böhning-Gaese (Scientific Director of the UFZ), Prof. Dr. Jan S. Hesthaven (President of KIT)
Moderators: Anne Freese (DESY) and Gholamhossein Movahedian (DKFZ), spokespersons for the Helmholtz Diversity Network
Talk: Artificial Intelligence and Gender
Dr. Eva Gengler
Artificial intelligence is not neutral: existing social power structures and inequalities can be perpetuated in data, algorithms and applications. Dr Eva Gengler, specialised in business informatics and expert on an intersectional-feminist perspective on AI, shows how gender bias and other forms of discrimination arise in AI and who they affect. As co-founder of the Feminist AI Community and author of the book “Feministische KI” (Feminist AI), she offers insights into how AI can be designed to be more equitable and responsible.
October 19, 2026 | 10–11:30 AM | German
Menopause: Meeting the Challenges — At Work, Too!
Age
Anke Sinnigen
One in ten women quits her job because of health-related challenges; many others reduce their hours or turn down a promotion. Menopause doesn't stop at the office door — it is often challenging at work, too. Yet open communication and small adjustments to the working environment can make a big difference. The talk introduces the most common symptoms (at work) and the available treatment options — plus practical tips for dealing with menopause on the job.
October 27, 2026 | 10-11:30 AM | German
Who Gets to Belong in Science? Migration, Ethnicity, and the Structures of Academic Careers
Ethnic Origin & Nationality
Dr. Jennifer Chan de Avila
International researchers are a structural feature of German science, yet the conditions that shape their careers are rarely examined as an institutional question. This keynote asks what actually determines the trajectories of researchers who migrate. Discrimination is part of the picture. So is the everyday architecture of visa regulations, administrative procedures, language requirements, contract structures, informal networks and uneven access to institutional resources. Drawing on intersectional research and on work in gender and organisational inequality, the talk examines how migration and ethnicity intersect with gender, social background, disability and career stage to shape who experiences belonging in a research institution, who is able to participate fully, and whose scientific productivity is quietly constrained. What would it mean to move from supporting individual international researchers to redesigning the structures, policies and cultures that make such support necessary in the first place?
November 2, 2026 | 1-2:30 PM | English
Embracing Diversity in Religion and Worldviews
Religion & Worldview
Prof. Dr. Lorenz Narku Laing
How can we create a workplace where people of different religious and worldview beliefs feel respected, included and able to contribute? This Talk by Prof. Dr. Lorenz Narku Laing explores belonging beyond our differences, freedom of belief in the workplace and the importance of open dialogue in a diverse community. Together, we will explore how we can find shared values despite different beliefs and foster an environment where diversity strengthens scientific excellence.
November 10, 2026 | 4.30-6 PM | English
Why are we still talking about Pride in 2026? Queer equality and inclusion at work
Sexual Orientation
Christian Boß
Many people support equality. Yet queer employees still carefully consider when, where and whether they can be fully themselves at work. So why does Pride still matter? What happens when people stay silent? And what role do you - as colleagues, managers and allies - play in creating an environment where everyone can thrive?
Join Christian Boß, Project Lead at PROUT AT WORK Foundation, for an interactive Lunch & Learn exploring the realities behind Pride Month and what queer inclusion means in everyday working life. Expect practical insights, data, personal stories and an open conversation about terminology, coming out, allyship and the business impact of belonging. Drawing on his personal experiences as well as his work with organizations across Germany, Christian creates a space for open and respectful dialogue, where curiosity and questions are welcome and no one is expected to know everything already.
Whether you identify as queer yourself or not, this session is for anyone who wants to understand how inclusion shapes culture, collaboration and performance. Without allies, there is no inclusion. While Pride often centers queer voices, meaningful change happens when everyone engages in the conversation.
November 18, 2026 | 10:30-12 AM | German
Who Is Considered Excellent? Social Class Background and Classism in Academia
Social Background
Prof. Dr. Francis Seeck
Classism refers to discrimination based on social class background or social status. In academia, it manifests itself, among other things, in access to networks, career opportunities, employment conditions, and notions of who is considered "excellent." This lecture examines these inequalities in academic career paths.
November 26, 2026 | 10-11:30 AM | German
Look.at.Me. – How Organizations Benefit from Inclusion
Physical & Mental Abilitie
Sebastian Wächter
How can institutions truly implement inclusion? Beyond mere lip service and seriously addressing prejudices and concerns. Ensuring they attract talented, creative, and well-qualified employees with specialised skills.
Sebastian Wächter will guide us through the topic, drawing on his own experience of being an employee with a severe disability. He will share insights and challenge preconceptions – often with a touch of humor. Find out how diversity can work and how your organization – and all of us – can benefit from it.
December 3, 2026 | 10-11:30 AM | German
