Business and Human Rights: Governance Challenges in a Complex World

Funded by the Elite Network of Bavaria, this interdisciplinary doctoral programme brings together outstanding researchers to explore pressing challenges at the intersection of business and human rights. It provides a dynamic research environment for doctoral projects that combine theoretical depth with practical relevance.

Research Profile

The programme is anchored in law and management as the core disciplines of business and human rights, and is enriched by perspectives from sociology, political science, and information systems. Close collaboration with partners from industry, civil society, and public institutions enables doctoral researchers to situate their work within real-world contexts and contribute to impactful solutions.

Curriculum and Structure

A structured curriculum supports the development of independent, critical researchers through regular Jours Fixes, methods workshops, advanced courses, research retreats, colloquia, conferences, and opportunities for practical engagement.

The programme spans eight semesters and brings together a cohort of a maximum of twenty doctoral researchers. It was launched in 2021, with the first cohort successfully completing the programme in October 2025. The second cohort is currently running from November 2025 to October 2029.

Since 2026, the doctoral programme has been integrated into the FAU Cluster of Excellence Transforming Human Rights, further strengthening its interdisciplinary scope and international visibility.”