Today, the LIN was once again recognised for its family- and life-stage-friendly HR policy. The ‘audit berufundfamilie’ certificate confirms that work-life balance is systematically developed at the LIN as part of providing good working conditions in academia.
The award recognises employers who do not view work-life balance as a one-off measure, but rather as something that is systematically developed within their organisation. The LIN has held the certificate since 2013, placing it among those employers who regularly review and update their provisions and structures. The focus is on issues that are important to many employees in the academic sector. How can demanding research, project work, teaching, administration, technical support and personal responsibilities be better reconciled? What framework conditions help people work well and effectively in the long term?
For the LIN, this latest accolade sends an important message both internally and externally. It shows that those who work here not only enable excellent research, but also find an environment that takes different life circumstances seriously. Work-life balance remains a cornerstone of our working culture, which aims to attract, retain and empower people.
'For us, good working conditions mean that work and family life truly go hand in hand,' says Stefan Remy, Scientific Director at the LIN. 'Here at the LIN, people are at different stages in their lives and careers. Some have families, some have care responsibilities and some are international researchers. By taking this seriously, we empower individuals and strengthen the LIN as a community.”
The ‘audit berufundfamilie’ assesses areas such as working hours, work organisation, place of work, information and communication, leadership, staff development, additional financial benefits and services. Organisations awarded the certificate commit to further developing their family- and life-stage sensitive HR policies, as well as having their implementation regularly reviewed.
Today, 18 June 2026, a total of 250 companies, institutions and universities were awarded the ‘audit berufundfamilie’ or ‘audit familiengerechte hochschule’ certificate in Berlin. The certificates are valid for three years. The LIN is currently one of 911 certified companies, institutions, and universities in Germany and other European countries.