Hofmann remains: TUM President elected for another six years!

Hofmann remains: TUM President elected for another six years!

Prof. Thomas F. Hofmann was elected President of the Technical University of Munich (TUM) for another six years. This was done by the university council, which met for an election meeting on Monday. Hofmann received a clear majority. This re-election marks his second term in the position, having served as president since 2019. Under his leadership, TUM has developed into one of the best universities in Germany and the European Union, as international rankings show. Prof. Heyo K. Kroemer, Chairman of the University Council, commented positively on Hofmann's exceptional leadership qualities and innovative strength.

Hofmann, who has been a professor at TUM since 2007, initiated various structural reforms during his time as Vice President for Research and Innovation from 2009 to 2019 and as President. His most significant initiatives include the introduction of the TUM Tenure Track appointment and career system and the development of the TUM Schools. He also founded the TUM Venture Labs and the TUM Sustainable Futures Strategy.

Promoting young scientists

TUM is the first university in Germany to set up a comprehensive tenure track system. This system offers performance-based career options for promising young scientists. In this context, the TUM Institute for Advanced Study (TUM-IAS) launched the Rudolf Mößbauer Tenure Track Assistant Professorships. The application deadline for these positions, which cover research areas such as autonomous vehicle systems technology and sustainable mobility systems, was April 1, 2022.

After a successful evaluation, holders of these positions have the opportunity to move to the associate professor level. To qualify for a tenure-track professorship, applicants must, among other things, demonstrate a strong track record in the postdoc phase and international experience. At TUM, applications from women and people with disabilities are also given priority, which promotes equal opportunities.

Long-term perspectives and structural reforms

The introduction of tenure-track professorships at German universities aims to sustainably promote young academics. The program has proven to be an important tool for establishing predictable career paths in science. According to the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), a total of 971 of these professorships had been created by May 31, 2023, with a proportion of women of 49.1 percent.

The program will be financed with up to 1 billion euros until 2032 to support cultural change at universities. The funding guidelines include, among other things, the need for a transparent evaluation and ensuring that positions are advertised internationally. In this context, TUM finds itself at the forefront of the German university landscape, serving as a model for innovative career paths.

Overall, TUM not only promotes academic excellence, but also actively contributes to strengthening innovative strength in Munich. These developments are in line with Hofmann's vision to pursue the ONE MUNICH strategy, which includes global partnerships and collaborations to improve the scientific landscape. The future of TUM looks promising and will continue to be dynamic under Hofmann's leadership.