Helmholtz Diversity Weeks 2026: Standing together

From 19 October to 6 December 2026, all 18 Helmholtz Centres will host the very first Helmholtz Diversity Weeks. With the motto 'Standing Together', these weeks of activities will highlight the importance of diversity for our research centres. The seven-week series of talks will offer practical ideas for collaboration in day-to-day working life.

The Helmholtz Diversity Weeks send a strong signal in support of diversity and cohesion, both within the Helmholtz Association and beyond. However, public commitment alone is not enough; what matters is how we work together and the conditions we create. The lectures will address the structures needed to ensure all staff have equal opportunities to contribute to and develop their careers.

The themed weeks will explore the seven core dimensions of the Diversity Charter. In their talks, experts will offer insights into how to encourage participation and prevent discrimination. The talks are open to the public, but registration is required. Simultaneous interpretation into German and English, as well as German Sign Language interpretation, will be provided for all talks.
 

Contribution from GEOMAR, in collaboration with GSI.

During the second themed week, the GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research in Kiel and the GSI Helmholtz Centre for Heavy Ion Research in Darmstadt will be exploring the key dimension of age together. Anke Sinnigen, an expert in women’s health and founder of the knowledge platform wexxeljahre.de, will speak at an online event about the challenges women face during the menopause. She will outline the most common symptoms and their treatment options in the workplace. She will also share helpful tips on managing the menopause at work.

Date and time: 27 October 2026, 10:00–11:30

Venue: Online
Please register via the following link: Register here
 

You can find the full programme, including brief descriptions of all the talks, on the Helmholtz website.

The Diveristy Weeks are organised by the Helmholtz Network for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DIE) and funded by the Helmholtz Association. The various Helmholtz Centres coordinate the talks.

GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel has successfully undergone re-certification for the Total EQuality accreditation, which will be valid until 2028. The centre has held this accreditation since 2017 and has now been recognised for the fourth time for its sustained commitment to personnel and organisational policies focused on equal opportunities. Since 2023, the application has covered both equality and diversity aspects.