Research and science in the district of Görlitz
The Görlitz district is undergoing a transformation. The transition from fossil fuel-based energy production to a "district of sustainability" has begun. Visionary strategists and creative implementers are not only developing viable concepts for the future, but also putting them into practice locally. The scientific expertise required for this comes from the district's "think tanks." The Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, the International University Institute (IHI), the Helmholtz Research Center Casus, and two Fraunhofer Society locations are close partners in these development processes. The establishment of the German Center for Astrophysics in Görlitz and Upper Lusatia will significantly shape the district as a research hub.
German Aerospace Center
The German Aerospace Center (DLR) is a crisis-proof employer with a focus on the future. At its Zittau site in the Görlitz district – and throughout Germany – around 11,000 employees from 100 nations work on sustainable solutions for energy, transport, security, digitalization, and aerospace. We are looking for students, engineers, project managers, and many other talented individuals who want to contribute to shaping the future.
Senckenberg Museum of Natural History
The Senckenberg Society for Natural Research is one of the leading institutions for biodiversity research in Germany – with eleven locations, including the Museum of Natural History in Görlitz. Here, modern biological, geo-, and environmental sciences meet exciting career opportunities. Whether as an intern, student assistant, or through voluntary service (FÖJ/BFD) – there are many ways to get started. Senckenberg also offers two international Master's programs in cooperation with TU Dresden and IHI Zittau.
CASUS
CASUS – Center for Advanced Systems Understanding – is a Polish-German research center in Görlitz. Over 100 researchers from around 30 countries use supercomputers and artificial intelligence to analyze complex systems in fields such as Earth system and materials science. The goal is to make data-driven knowledge applicable to global challenges such as biodiversity conservation and cancer treatment. Whether you're looking for an internship, a thesis, or a PhD – if you love data and want to explore new avenues in research, this is the place for you.
Fraunhofer IWU
The Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology (IWU) develops innovative products and processes for industries such as automotive, aerospace, medical technology, electrical engineering, and microtechnology at five locations – including Zittau. Around 670 employees work here on pioneering solutions. Even as a student assistant, you can gain valuable practical experience in Zittau.
Fraunhofer ISOB
Fraunhofer IOSB, with eight locations and around 850 employees, is one of the leading institutes for applied research. In Görlitz, the research group for IT security of critical infrastructures in the energy and water sectors works in close cooperation with the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences (HSZG). Students can join the institute as research assistants, through internships, or with their thesis projects. Direct entry and management positions are also possible.
Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences
The Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences (HSZG) is firmly rooted in the tri-border region of Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic, promoting cross-border exchange and international networking in education and research. Its focus areas include energy and the environment, societal change, and materials and surfaces. It collaborates closely with companies from Germany and abroad and actively shapes regional structural change. Topics such as green engineering and innovative healthcare systems are key areas of focus.
International University Institute (IHI) Zittau
At the International University Institute (IHI) Zittau of TU Dresden, you can complete specialized Master's programs in fields such as biodiversity, ecosystems, biotechnology, ethics, and international management – some taught in German, others in English. The programs attract students from around 40 nations. The IHI offers a welcoming learning environment with an international flair and a clear academic focus.
Leibniz Institute IÖR
The Leibniz Institute of Ecological Urban and Regional Development researches how regions, cities, and neighborhoods can be sustainably developed and transformed. Its key areas of focus include landscape and biodiversity, the built environment and environmental risks, and spatial data analysis. The Interdisciplinary Centre for Transformative Urban Redevelopment (ISZ) is located in Görlitz.
German Center for Astrophysics
The German Center for Astrophysics (DZA) is being established as part of a major research project in Görlitz and the Lusatia region. Its goal is to create an internationally leading center for astrophysical research. The focus is on resource-efficient digitization, technology development, and knowledge transfer. Anyone who wants to shape the future and work closely with industry and technology centers will find the ideal partner in the DZA.
Do you have questions?
Whether you're arriving, working, studying, or living in the Görlitz district – we're happy to help! You can easily get in touch with the Welcome Center using our contact form. We look forward to hearing from you and will provide you with quick and reliable assistance.
Your contact persons are
Cindy Haupt, Skilled Workers Guide;
Maren Molch, Skilled Workers Coordinator
