Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at the Max Planck Institute for Informatics
The work of the Equal Opportunities Office
At our institute, equality is more than just a principle – it is a shared commitment. The Office for Gender Equality works to ensure that everyone, regardless of gender, background, or personal circumstances, has the same opportunities to thrive, contribute, and succeed.
Gender equality work is about identifying and challenging structural inequalities, promoting fair treatment, and fostering an inclusive culture where all voices are heard and valued. This involves everything from ensuring balanced representation and pay equity, to supporting work-life balance and addressing discrimination or unconscious bias.
Equality work affects all of us – students, staff, and leadership alike. It improves collaboration, drives innovation, and strengthens our academic and social community. Only when everyone feels respected, seen, and empowered can we reach our full potential – both individually and as an institution.
We invite you to engage with our work, learn more about current initiatives, and become part of a culture of fairness and respect.
Here are some examples of what we do as your Equal Opportunities Team:
Advising and Support
We provide guidance to employees and managers on issues related to gender equality. We support women in areas such as career development, balancing work and family life, and resolving conflicts, including those involving sexual harassment.
Please read more about our counselling service and other points of contacts here.
Public Relations and Awareness-Raising
To foster a more inclusive culture, we organize workshops, training sessions, and events that address gender equality, diversity, and anti-discrimination. Through public communication, we help promote awareness and shift organizational culture toward greater inclusivity.
However, we can only offer interesting topics if we know what you are interested in. So if you want to learn something about a special topic related to our working area, please drop us an e-mail.
Planning and Implementation
One of our core tasks is to develop and oversee the implementation of gender equality plans. This includes evaluating workforce statistics and policies to ensure they support fair and equitable practices for all genders. With the gender equality plan, we report on the status of gender equality within the institute. These documents highlight progress, identify areas for improvement, and offer recommendations to leadership and relevant committees.
Networking and Collaboration
The Gender Equality Officer maintains contact with peers in other organizations, participates in professional networks, and engages in continuous learning. This exchange of knowledge and best practices strengthens her ability to advocate for effective equality measures.
The Equal Opportunities Team
Alexandra Klasen-Schmitt
Equal Opportunities Officer
Since 2005, I have been working in the joint administration.
I have been an honorary Equal Opportunities Officer at the MPI Informatik for over ten years.
My special concern is the reconciliation of work and family life. Since 2010, I have been able to implement numerous measures, including the establishment of childcare places in kindergartens, parent-child rooms, nursing rooms, changing facilities, and Kids Boxes. In 2020, we received the certificate "Family-Friendly Company," which we re-certified until 2028.
To further develop this area, the institute management has approved the establishment of a "Family & Care Office," which will start in the coming months. The goal is to separate this area from general equal opportunities work to better focus on other important topics such as diversity, mentoring, and changes in voting rights.
I am convinced that a diverse and inclusive work environment is essential. Therefore, I would be very pleased if an Equal Opportunities Board could be established to promote diversity at the institute even more. It is especially important to me to include all status groups, even if not all could be elected yet. If you are interested in learning more about our initiatives or want to get actively involved, I look forward to exchanging ideas! Of course, my door is always open for any other concerns as well.
Elisa Schaaf
Deputy Equal Opportunities Officer
Since April 2024, I’ve been working in the Secretariat of Department D1 at Danupon Na Nongkai, and since early 2025, I’ve also been serving as Deputy Equal Opportunities Officer. I’m passionate about strengthening structures that promote equal opportunities and diversity, and about creating a workplace where everyone can fully develop their potential.
Our Equal Opportunities Plan includes a variety of initiatives, from lectures and workshops on work-life balance, stress management, and discrimination, to mentoring programs and opportunities for networking and exchange. I’m excited to continue driving these measures forward with our team and to actively support equality work at the institute.
Iris Wagner
Deputy Equal Opportunities Officer
My name is Iris and in my full-time position, I have now been working as executive assistant for Anja Feldmann and her team since 2019.
As the deputy equal opportunities officer, I see my voluntary role as a meaningful opportunity to contribute to a supportive and inclusive work environment for everyone at our institute. I am passionate about fostering a culture where all members—regardless of their background, gender, or career stage—feel heard, respected, and empowered. For me, this includes advocating for a healthy work-life balance, particularly for those juggling personal and professional responsibilities, and offering guidance to young scientists as they take their first steps into their academic careers. I also believe it's essential to shine a light on the challenges that may not always be openly discussed—issues that still affect members of our community today. Through awareness, dialogue, and ongoing support, I hope to help create an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute their best.