Team & Values

Our research group aims to be not only an intellectually stimulating place to work, but also a supportive and col­lab­orative environment in which people can grow as researchers and colleagues. We believe that excellent re­search emerges from a strong team, shared values, and a culture of mutual respect.

Photo: © MPI-CSL

Trust

Trust is the foundation of our work together. We value transparency in communication, dependability in collaboration, and integrity and fairness in how we treat each other. We strive to create an environment in which team members feel safe to share ideas, ask questions, and discuss challenges openly.

Collaborative Learning

We see research as a collective learning process. Our group fosters an open feedback culture in which ideas and pro­jects benefit from constructive discussion. We value collaboration over competition and believe that mutual support and shared problem-solving lead to better science and more enjoyable work.

Respect

We are committed to a respectful and inclusive research environment. We value equality, diversity, and appreciation of different perspectives and backgrounds. All team members – regardless of career stage – are treated with respect, and their contributions are valued.

Excellence

We strive for excellence in our research by combining theoretical rigor, methodological innovation, and open science practices. We aim to conduct research that is careful, transparent, and impactful, while continuously improving our methods and approaches.

Fun

We believe that good research thrives in an environment where people enjoy working together. We value humor, informal exchange, and shared experiences – whether during everyday interactions, team activities, or retreats.

Recognition

In 2025, our research group was awarded the Best Research Environment Award 2024 by the Die Junge Akademie, recog­niz­ing our commitment to a supportive, collaborative, and inclusive research culture.

Recognition for the Research Group “Personality, Identity, and Crime”

June 10, 2025

Isabel Thielmann and team honored at the Prize for the Best Research Environment more

Opportunities to Join Our Group

We are always happy to hear from motivated researchers and students who are interested in our work. This includes applications for:

• Research stays by doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers
• Internships for university and school students
• Supervision of Bachelor’s and Master’s theses

If you are interested in working with us, please get in touch.