Simon Braisz

How did you come to the University of Kassel?

I studied business education at the University of Kassel, was also a student assistant here and then worked in various positions. Now I have been based in the Department of Development Planning since 2021 and work in the units for internationalization as well as in the unit for strategic personnel development.

What are your tasks in the unit for internationalization and international cooperation?

There, we primarily support scientists in applying for projects in the international arena. For example, we advise departments on international funding programs of the DAAD and within the framework of Erasmus+, accompany application procedures and prepare cooperation agreements.

And what is your role in strategic personnel development?

The tasks here are very diverse. We are currently working on the implementation of measures derived from the university-wide organizational climate survey that we conducted. Based on the results, we were able to develop measures to further improve working conditions, cooperation and the organizational climate at the University of Kassel. My tasks lie primarily in the monitoring and implementation of individual projects. In both areas of activity, I work with people from a wide variety of fields and am constantly confronted with new developments - I enjoy the variety.

How important will the international orientation of the University of Kassel be in the future?

Internationalization is already important and noticeable at all levels. On the one hand, we are concerned with being internationally visible as a university. On the other hand, it is also a goal to offer more international degree programs and to make ourselves attractive to international students and scientists.

What should people bring with them who would like to work in this environment?

We communicate on an international level with people from different regions of the world. That's a big part of the appeal. But it also means that people who want to work in the international field at the University of Kassel should have an appetite for working with international bodies, as well as at least a good command of English. It also takes a certain cultural sensitivity and self-reflection to be able to deal with people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds and unfamiliar situations.

What do you appreciate about the University of Kassel as an employer?

As an employee, I have a great deal of creative freedom, and although I am an administrative employee, I am still very close to research and have insights into socially relevant research projects. Every now and then I can go to a lecture series to dive into interesting topics. There are a lot of diverse offers that also require only short distances. In summary, it is very meaningful work.

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