Providing Support

ML4Q focuses on creating a diverse and inclusive work environment in which everyone feels welcome, comfortable and valued. To achieve this, we have established measures that aim in particular to balance science and family and to actively support female scientists. Furthermore, there is a focus on transparent and low-threshold support management in the event of any form of discrimination in the cluster as well as on active assistance and destigmatisation of mental health problems.

Balancing science and family

ML4Q participates in the Stellenpooling of the University of Cologne. Members and associated members of the cluster can contact us if they need childcare and together with the Dual Career and Family Support we try to arrange a childcare place in one of the facilities of the Fröbel Group. Currently, several members take advantage of this opportunity.

At all sites of the cluster there is the possibility to combine work with childcare responsibilities in the best possible way in specially equipped family rooms. In addition to a diaper-changing station, crib and a comfortable seat, various toys offer the opportunity to keep children of different ages happy. In addition, these rooms are designed as individual workplaces and thus provide a protected environment in which, for example, lactation can take place without being disturbed.

Family rooms are located at each institution:

University of Cologne/Department of Physics
University of Bonn
RWTH Aachen
Forschungszentrum Jülich

To ensure a balance between science and family beyond the usual environment, ML4Q asks for individual needs for privacy at its own events (e.g. annual conference). For example, people with caring responsibilities should be given the opportunity to bring their children with them and, if necessary, to have access to a room specifically for their needs. In addition to the possibility for parents and lactating persons to have privacy, this room is of course also available for other needs, such as praying, and thus ensures that the diverse needs of our members are taken into account at all times.

Supporting female scientists

ML4Q actively creates incentives to hire and support female scientists especially in the crucial postdoc phase. Additional funds provided can be used to support the newly hired female postdoc in pursuing further qualifications in academia and in her active research.
Several female postdocs in the cluster benefit from this measure.

Support in the event of discriminatory behaviour

ML4Q has a zero tolerance policy towards any discriminatory behaviour. Those affected by or witnessing discriminatory behaviour have the opportunity to address their concerns to the Diversity Stewards set up specifically at each site. These low-threshold contact points provide a safe and confidential environment in which experiences can be reported openly and where those affected can receive support.
Another option is to contact the cluster’s Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Manager.​
Detailed information on the topic of discrimination and counselling options can also be found on the website of the Federal Anti-Discrimination Agency.

mental health support

Mental health is a person’s emotional, psychological and social well-being and includes their ability to cope with stress, socialise with others and make decisions. It influences the way individuals think, feel and act and affects various aspects of their lives, such as their relationships, work and daily functioning. Mental health is not just about the abscence of mental disorders, ut also includes maintaining a positive mental state, resilience and coping with life’s challenges.

Students and university staff face a variety of challenges, which they have to deal with. The pressure to publish, pressure to perform, doubts about the degree programme, securing fundings, competition within the research field, the double burden of studying and working, the workload that research and teaching imply, and so on. The stigma surrounding mental health issues further can complicate the situation, discouraging individuals from seeking help. Addressing mental health in academia is not only an important moral obligation, but also a crucial step in creating sustainable and thriving academic communities.

At ML4Q, we see it as our responsibility to create an environment in which mental health matters and in which an open and taboo-free approach to mental health and mental health issues is encouraged. First aid for physical emergencies is common, but it is just as important to be able to provide competent first aid in mental health crises. If one of our members needs support and feels the need to talk to someone, there is a contact person available: Eva Kanis, the EDI Manager of the cluster. She is certified through the German version of the Australian Mental Health First Aid Program, operating in 26 countries, and trained to provide first support. Not only those affected, but also concerned third parties can contact her at any time and confidentially (preferably by email).

Further points of contact that can be approached at any time:

University of Cologne
RWTH Aachen
University Bonn
Forschungszentrum Jülich