Research Units are interdisciplinary pools of several prominent scientists, usually set up for a medium-term period (six years). The members produce a research project together with a specific thematic, temporal or financial scope. Research Units frequently contribute to the establishment of new ways of working. In the context of the new opportunities for the formation of research projects, highly qualified scientists should be provided with the opportunity to establish gravitational centres of scientific exchange and discussion for the respective area at the respective location. This happens for example through the research colloquia programme, in which top-class presentations are given, as well as through conferences.

• DFG Research Unit 530 "Self-Narratives in Transcultural Perspective"
• DFG Research Unit 1627 "Bildevidenz. Geschichte und Ästhetik"
• DFG Research Unit 1703 "Transcultural Negotiations in the Ambits of Art. Comparative Perspectives on Historical Contexts and Current Constellations"
• DFG Research Unit 391 “Bild – Schrift – Zahl”