Logo Universität Bayreuth

University of Bayreuth, Press Release No. 100/2025 - 20 November 2025

Princess Dr. Auguste of Bavaria joins the University Council of the University of Bayreuth

The University of Bayreuth welcomes Princess Dr. Auguste of Bavaria, an outstanding personality, as a new external member of the University Council. The zoologist and internationally renowned behavioral scientist took up her post on November 15, 2025. Her appointment is valid until November 14, 2029.

Frau mit Vogel auf der Schulter

Dr. Auguste von Bayern (archive photo), a zoologist with a doctorate and internationally renowned behavioral scientist, has been newly appointed to the University Council of the University of Bayreuth.

Dr. von Bayern heads the Comparative Cognition Research Group at the Max Planck Institute for Biological Intelligence in Seewiesen and is also director of the Max Planck Research Station for Animal Intelligence at Loro Parque in Tenerife. Her scientific work focuses on the intelligence of birds—especially parrots and corvids—and has attracted worldwide attention. With over 60 publications in renowned journals and numerous international research collaborations, she is one of the leading minds in her field.

In addition to her scientific excellence, Dr. von Bayern is also deeply committed to social causes: As a mother of four, nature ambassador, and co-initiator of projects such as “Dawn Chorus” and the BIOTOPIA Natural History Museum Bavaria, she combines research, education, and public relations in an exemplary manner. Her presence in media formats such as Arte, BBC, Netflix, and National Geographic makes her an important voice for science communication and nature conservation.

The University of Bayreuth sees her appointment as a great asset to the University Council, which, as a central strategic body, plays a key role in shaping the development of the university. The University Council consists of seven internal and seven external members and is involved, among other things, in the election of the university management, structural decisions, and the development of degree programs.

Alexandra Füller confirmed for third term

The Senate of the University of Bayreuth has also confirmed the appointment of Ms. Alexandra Füller, managing director of Füller Glastechnologie Vertriebs GmbH in Spiegelau, for a third term until November 14, 2029. Ms. Füller has been a member of the University Council since 2017 and contributes her many years of experience in industrial research and development as well as her expertise in the field of glass and materials technology to the strategic work of the council.

"With Dr. Auguste von Bayern, the University of Bayreuth gains a personality who uniquely combines science, social commitment, and international visibility. Her appointment strengthens our commitment to combining research and responsibility. At the same time, I am delighted about the reappointment of Ms. Alexandra Füller, whose technological expertise and entrepreneurial vision have provided valuable impetus for our strategic development for many years. External members such as these are crucial for the future viability of our university," says Prof. Dr. Stefan Leible, President of the University of Bayreuth.

The University Council

The University Council of the University of Bayreuth consists of seven internal members and seven personalities from science, culture, business, and professional practice (non-university members). Together with the Senate, the University Council elects the President and the four Vice Presidents and decides on proposals for the appointment of the Chancellor. The University Council is also consulted on decisions concerning the basic regulations of the University of Bayreuth and comments on the establishment, modification, and discontinuation of degree programs, as well as on the establishment, modification, or discontinuation of scientific institutions and operating units by the university management. At the request of the university management and with the approval of the Senate, the University Council decides on proposals for the division of the university into faculties.

Gert-Dieter Meier

Gert Dieter MeierScience Communication

Phone: +49 (0)921 / 55-5356
E-mail: gert.meier@uni-bayreuth.de  

Zentrale Universitätsverwaltung (ZUV), Office 3.09
Universitätsstraße 30, 95447 Bayreuth