The federal and state program for female professors

[Translate to English:] 2 Studentinnen schauen sich im Labor gefülltes Fläschchen an
HTWD

Women are still underrepresented in top scientific positions, especially in STEM fields. In Germany, only a quarter of professorships are currently held by women, although every second doctorate is written by a woman.

In order to increase the presence of women at all levels of academic qualification and, in particular, to increase the proportion of female professors, the Program for Female Professors was launched by the German federal and state governments in 2008. With the help of measures to promote gender equality, the program aims to bring about structural changes at universities and achieve equal opportunities.

 

The Female Professors Program III at HTW Dresden

HTW Dresden was able to successfully qualify for program phase III thanks to its gender equality concept and thus received start-up funding for a W2 professorship staffed by women. The funds that would have been spent on financing this position are now flowing into measures to promote equality.

The focus of the third program phase is on the area of "personnel development and recruitment on the way to professorship". The measures include, among other things, the implementation of workshops and application training for female students and young female scientists, as well as further training for managers on the topics of "gender- and family-friendly leadership". Projects to attract female first-year students to STEM degree programs are also supported.

 

You would like to apply for a professorship?

You can find our current advertisements in the job offers of HTW Dresden. You are welcome to seek advice from our Equal Opportunity Officers before and during the application process. You can find the procedure of the appointment process here. You are also welcome to take advantage of our continuing education and training offers for female applicants and scientists.

 

Ongoing actions and events

► Girls' Day 

Every year on Girls' Day, HTW Dresden invites schoolgirls from the 5th grade upwards to take part in exciting workshops in technology and the natural sciences. The next date is April 23, 2026.

Special Training for female Students "Find your Leadership Personality"

Planned for spring 2026.

talkING women: Regulars' table for female STEM students

In a relaxed atmosphere, you will have the opportunity to network with other students from different degree programs, make new contacts, exchange study experiences, and gain new perspectives—all while testing your knowledge in a fun quiz.

January 22, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Further Infos and registration

Online workshop: “Equality law in science”

The workshop offers a thorough introduction to gender equality law with a particular focus on the academic system, aiming to familiarize young female researchers with key legal principles and their practical significance for their academic careers.

January 23, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Further Infos and registration

► Online career coaching and training for women 
What does the appointment process at a university of applied sciences look like? What requirements and expectations do I have to meet? How can I present myself professionally and confidently?
These and other questions will be answered in the appointment training. The workshop offers interested participants support, guidance, and preparation for applying for a professorship at a university of applied sciences.

Planned for spring 2026

 

►  Workshop “Navigating the dilemma”
Training to improve decision-making skills in complex leadership situations.

January 29, 2026 | 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Further information and registration

► in planning: installation of a parent-child room

 

 

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