Join our doctoral program at the intersection of management, technology & innovation  |  Heilbronn

Shape the Future of Research at TUM Campus Heilbronn

Join our doctoral program at the intersection of management, technology & innovation

Shape the future of research at TUM Campus Heilbronn

The doctoral program at the TUM School of Management, TUM Campus Heilbronn, offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary research environment at the intersection of management, technology, and innovation, including family enterprises. Designed for ambitious scholars, the program combines academic excellence with real-world relevance, preparing candidates for impactful careers in academia, industry, and beyond.

  • "The Bachelor in Management and Data Science at TUM blends business management and computer science, with a unique focus on family-run businesses. It’s a great program for gaining insights and practical understanding in today’s tech-driven world."
    Omar Azlan
    Bachelor´s student in Management & Data Science
  • "I chose the program Management and Data Science because it perfectly aligns with my goal of building my own startup. I want to learn the tools to structure and develop it, combining business strategy and data-driven insights."
    Diana Rocabado von Borries
    Bachelor´s student in Management & Data Science
  • „In this unique study program, students explore the latest data-driven technologies and holistically discover how digital tools can be utilized to solve managerial challenges.”
    Prof. Dr. rer. oec. Michael Stich
    Academic Program Director of the Bachelor in Management & Data Science
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Your benefits during the program

  • Close Supervision & Mentorship – Benefit from guidance by leading faculty
  • Cutting-Edge Research Facilities – Access state-of-the-art labs and resources
  • Strong Industry Ties – Especially within the innovation-driven Heilbronn-Franken region
  • Interdisciplinary Community – Collaborate across management, technology, and innovation
  • Unique Research Environment – Benefit from the dynamic innovation ecosystem at the Heilbronn Bildungscampus.

Why choose TUM School of Management at TUM Campus Heilbronn?

  • #1

    Best business school in Germany
    (THE University Subject Ranking)
  • 1%

    of the elite group worldwide holding the triple crown accreditation
  • #1

    to educate global leaders
    (Digital Leader Ranking)
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Outside view of a tall, white building, the so-called L-building, at TUM Campus Heilbronn.

Research focus

TUM Campus Heilbronn offers a unique research environment focused on digital transformation, family business, and AI in management. Doctoral candidates benefit from an interdisciplinary academic culture, strong ties to local industry leaders, and access to TUM’s global research network.

© Bildungscampus

Bildungscampus Heilbronn

The campus is embedded in the Bildungscampus Heilbronn, a vibrant academic ecosystem that includes:

 

  • ETH Zürich
  • Heilbronn University of Applied Sciences
  • DHBW Heilbronn (Baden-Württemberg Cooperative State University)
  • State Graduate Center for Applied AI
  • Max-Planck-Institute
  • Ferdinand-Steinbeis-Institute Heilbronn
  • Fraunhofer IAO Project Group for Cognitive Systems
  • IPAI – Innovation Park Artificial Intelligence

This close proximity fosters collaboration, innovation, and access to a wide range of academic and industry expertise—making Heilbronn a truly exceptional place to pursue your doctorate.

Your future opportunities

  • Academic Careers – Alumni placements at leading universities & research institutes
  • Industry Impact – Opportunities in consulting, tech, family enterprises, and innovation-driven companies
  • Global Network – Access to TUM’s international partnerships & research collaborations
  • Career Support – Structured guidance on career development, conferences, and publications
  • Life in Heilbronn – A dynamic academic hub with strong ties to global industry leaders and excellent quality of life

How to become a PhD candidate

There are two main pathways to start your doctoral journey at TUM Campus Heilbronn.

1. With a research proposal (exposé)

If you already have a well-prepared research proposal, you can apply directly to a professor at TUM Campus Heilbronn.

2. Without a research proposal

If you do not yet have a proposal, you can apply for open PhD positions offered by the chairs and research groups at TUM Campus Heilbronn. These positions are regularly published. 

 

Tip: In both cases, we recommend contacting potential supervisors early to discuss your research interests and opportunities for collaboration.

Contact

Please find the relevant contact persons below:

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