The University Assembly of the University of Erfurt on 2 November 2026 elected political scientist André Brodocz as president. According to the university, this is the first time a president has been elected from within its own ranks. Brodocz has taught at the University of Erfurt since 2009 and most recently served as Vice-President for Research and Academic Careers. Formal appointment by the state is still pending; until then, the interim arrangement will remain in place.
The decision followed a lengthy process involving two attempts. In 2025, the University Assembly had elected Germanist Anke Holler but she did not take up the post. Holler said in June 2026 that she would not assume the role because the terms had changed. During the interim period, Walter Bauer-Wabnegg, the former president, continued to run the university Erfurt as interim president. The University Council oversaw the renewed search and supported Brodocz’s candidacy.
By electing an internal candidate, the university is opting for continuity and existing knowledge of its own structures. In recent years, Brodocz has been active on various committees, including as a dean, senator and member of the University Council. Supporters argue that an internal president knows the workings, staff and profile of the University of Erfurt well and can continue projects without a lengthy induction. There is some scepticism where external impetus is considered necessary for structural reforms, for example in finance, staff development and shaping the profile of research and teaching. These are third-party assessments and are not part of the formal decision.
The process is governed by the Thuringian Higher Education Act . Following election by the University Assembly, appointment procedures follow, involving the University Council and the state ministry. The term of office begins only once the appointment has been made. In an initial statement, Brodocz identified strengthening research infrastructure, securing posts and clearly prioritising ongoing projects as his priorities. Specific measures will be determined following discussions with the University Council and the state of Thuringia anticipated.
For the University of Erfurt, the election brings a period of uncertainty to an end. The coming weeks will focus on the handover and defining operational steps. Whether the internal solution leads to faster progress on outstanding projects will depend on upcoming staffing decisions, available funds and agreements with Thuringia.
Editor: Mira Cadena (Article created with AI assistance).