Confidential advisors in the event of hierarchical conflicts and power abuse

All members of the department can turn to the confidential advisors in the event of conflicts within existing hierarchies. The team consists of members of different status groups, genders, etc. to facilitate a trusting approach.

Experience has shown that people often find it difficult to clearly characterise treatment that feels unfair as a situation of power abuse. We would therefore like to encourage you to always contact us if in doubt and discuss what you have experienced.

If you have the impression that your achievements are being denied or not valued; if you are under pressure to continue working for the group even after the end of your PhD; if the presentation of contributions to publications in the list of authors is not fair; if you have inhibitions about taking your rest periods in a climate of excessive expectations; if you fear that you will receive a lower grade without agreeing to certain services; or if you are assigned extensive tasks without prior consultation: You are welcome to contact the confidential advisors.

You have control at all times over what information is shared with whom and what active steps are taken or not. If this is in your interest, the confidential advisors will be happy to consult with each other or with one of the central trusted points of contact. If, for example, a member of the confidential advisors themselves should be the reason for you to contact them, your chosen contact person will of course keep this to themselves and will only enter into an exchange at your request. We are also happy to advise in cases of work conflicts with external parties.

We will clarify your needs together with you. Whether you simply want to talk things through or would like to consider together what steps you and/ or we can take to improve the specific situation, or have suggestions on how such incidents can be avoided in future through systemic change: The confidential advisors have an open ear for you.