Diversity and equal opportunities

Diversity management – diversity that generates knowledge
The Diversity Management aims to foster different talents to their fullest potential, harness their innovative capacity for research projects and boost creativity within teams.
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Diversity shapes our future

At the German Aerospace Center (Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt; DLR), people from approximately 100 nations work together on solutions to tomorrow's challenges. This diversity of perspectives, experiences and cultural backgrounds is the driving force behind our innovative strength – and a fundamental part of our identity as Germany's largest engineering research organisation.

Diversity drives innovation

Excellent research thrives on diverse perspectives. Our Diversity Management therefore pursues a clear goal: to create the conditions in which all employees can develop their talents to the fullest. We foster a culture in which creativity, openness and mutual respect are a matter of course – and where diversity is seen as a strength.

As a signatory to the Diversity Charter (Charta der Vielfalt), we are committed to a working environment free from prejudice, where everyone is respected and supported regardless of their migration background or nationality, gender and gender identity, age, religion or beliefs, sexual orientation, physical and mental abilities, or social background.

Strengthening equal opportunities

Equal opportunities
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Equal opportunities have a long-standing tradition at DLR and are firmly embedded in our guiding principles. Nevertheless, we recognise that further action is needed, particularly in scientific and technical fields – especially when it comes to the representation of women in research and leadership roles.

We therefore set ourselves ambitious targets and work continuously to make career pathways more transparent, fairer and more inclusive. Our goals are clear: more women in science, more women in leadership positions and an organisational culture that provides even greater room for diverse perspectives.

Comprehensive approach to work-life balance

Work-life balance
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A modern workplace requires flexible solutions. Our employees – whether they have family responsibilities or not – benefit from a wide range of initiatives that give them greater control over their time and a better work-life balance.

You are unique

We foster an environment in which the individuality of every person is valued and all employees have the opportunity to develop their full potential and feel comfortable being themselves. Ultimately, groundbreaking research can only flourish where people feel free to be their authentic selves.

In focus

Our life-phase-oriented HR policy includes, among other things:

Flexible working time models, including flexitime, a wide range of part-time options and part-time or job-share management arrangements
Mobile and hybrid working
Free internal and external advisory services on topics such as childcare, returning to work after a career break and caring for relatives
Holiday programmes for school-age children
Reserved childcare places at all major DLR locations
Structured return-to-work support following family-related leave
Comprehensive information and support services tailored to different life stages and challenges

Award-winning HR policy

TOTAL-E-QUALITY diversity
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TOTAL-E-QUALITY Deutschland e. V.

Since 2004, we have been regularly awarded the TOTAL E-QUALITY award for our commitment to equal opportunities, diversity and our life-phase-oriented HR policy. This recognition affirms our approach – and motivates us to continue actively shaping diversity and equality.