Christina Janik Takes Over as Head of Human Resources at ZEW

On 1 October 2025, Christina Janik took over as head of Human Resources at ZEW – Leibniz Centre for European Economic Research in Mannheim. In her new role, she is responsible for the strategic planning, development and management of all personnel matters within the organisation. Her tasks also include the continued development of the Human Resources Service Unit. Together with the Communications and General Services Units, HR forms one of three service units at ZEW.

Christina Janik brings with her many years of experience in human resources. After completing her studies at the University of Mannheim, she held various HR positions including at Deutsche Bahn, where she worked for nine years, seven of which were in a management position. Her areas of focus included recruiting strategies for academic professionals, the development of talent pools, process optimisation and the use of AI in HR processes.

At ZEW, Christina Janik will be responsible for the entire spectrum of human resources issues, from strategic HR projects and personnel development to personnel support. She is particularly keen to position HR as a reliable and efficient partner in day-to-day business and as a driving force for the strategic development of the institute.

“Strategically oriented human resources work, regarding both scientific and non-scientific positions, is of central importance today for the performance of a research institution like ZEW. With Christina Janik, we are gaining a proven expert who will shape our human resources strategy and processes with a visionary approach, drawing on her wealth of experience,” emphasises ZEW Managing Director Claudia von Schuttenbach.