The University of Potsdam has established a clear profile within the research landscape of the German state of Brandenburg "Since its founding 25 years ago, the University of Potsdam has excelled in research and teaching and is well positioned both on a national and international scale. Achieving this under consistently difficult economic conditions speaks for the quality and motivation of our professors, research, and administrative staff. Now it is essential to consolidate and extend this position. We want to play an active role among Germany’s leading research universities on a sustained basis. And, of course, we also want to take top positions in our areas of studies. This is the only way to attract the brightest and most-talented minds to Brandenburg and to offer them career perspectives. We are convinced that investments being made in research and teaching today will pay off for Brandenburg in the near future. This is why we actively engage in qualified training of skilled personnel that we urgently need and ensure a rapid translation of the latest scientific findings into practice. It is of particular concern to us to win strong political, economic, and social partners. "