Corporate culture

EURAC stands out through having achieved the correct balance between projects dealing with local issues, and those of international impact. South Tyrol is a border region straddling three different cultures, German, Italian and Ladin.

This circumstance presents the scientists at EURAC with a unique challenge: to take projects of local interest as a model to be applied to other European regions. Thus, for example, studies for the autonomy of South Tyrol can be used as an important basis for the development of models in similar autonomous regions such as Cyprus or Kosovo. On the other hand, data and other findings from research into the Alpine environment are equally used for the benefit of the Alpine Convention, whose Permanent Secretariat has its offices for technical operations at EURAC.  

This local flavour is not only reflected in the choice of research themes, but also in the selection of local partners and when inviting the local population to take an interest in research. To this end, EURAC initiates various events to popularise science, such as the EURAC Science Cafés on the Tower Terrace, and the Long Night of Research, where young and old can try out the role of a researcher.

EURAC’s international status is underpinned by its participation in numerous projects within the framework of European Programmes, and its cooperation with top-class European and American universities and research institutes. In December 2008, EURAC’s Institute for Genetic Medicine was awarded the status of an ‘Affiliated Institute’ of the University of Lübeck. This enables scientists from Lübeck to study at EURAC and staff from EURAC to receive doctorates, qualify as professors, and lecture at the University of Lübeck.  

Efficient structures, flat hierarchies, internally-run continuous professional development, appropriate availability of technical infrastructures and optimal protection of sensitive data, mutual support and teamwork – these are all distinguishing features of our enterprise culture.  

Our colleagues are our capital.  

We cultivate the strengths, initiative and independent work of our colleagues and offer them the opportunity to develop their ideas in our Academy.  

From our colleagues, we expect independent, flexible and enterprising practice. We also look for a willingness to gain third-party funding, a strong commitment to getting results, an ingrained sense of personal responsibility, a readiness to accommodate change and a desire to innovate, together with outstanding motivation, a delight in team-work and in promoting a climate of mutual support and encouragement.