Career Coffee Talk (iDiv/UFZ): Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG) and its ongoing debate and reform

The framework conditions for academic careers in Germany are shaped to a large extent by the Academic Fixed-Term Contract Act (WissZeitVG). Particularly for postdocs, it raises key questions regarding the duration of employment, career planning, and structural career prospects. At the same time, possible reforms and their implications for research careers are currently the subject of intensive debate.

We have invited Dr. Georg Winkens, spokesperson of HAPN, the postdoctoral network of the Helmholtz Association. He will present the joint statement of the Helmholtz Association, the Max Planck Society, and the Leibniz Association and place it within the context of the current debate surrounding the WissZeitVG.

What challenges arise from the current legal framework? Which perspectives and demands are being discussed within the academic community?

And what does this mean in concrete terms for individual research career paths?

Georg will provide insights into the background and processes behind these developments. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions and bring in topics that are important to you.

There will also be a follow-up event on 2 July 2026 at 1:30 p.m. with Georg Winkens and Ulrike Krumrey for the further exploration and practical application of the WissZeitVG to participants‘ own career planning.

This coffee talk is jointly organised by iDiv and the UFZ.