Dr. Laleh Khodadadi

About Dr. Laleh Khodadadi

Dr. Laleh Khodadadi combines scientific excellence with a clear vision for inclusive leadership and organizational development. As Equality Officer and Senior Scientist at the German Rheumatology Research Center (DRFZ) in Berlin, she brings her experience as an immunologist, international scientist, and strategic advisor to advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion in research environments. She also holds an MBA in Leading Innovation and Change, complementing her scientific expertise with knowledge in innovation, organizational development, and change management.

Through her work across diverse scientific, cultural, and international settings, Dr. Khodadadi has witnessed how diversity, equal opportunities, and psychological safety can unlock the full potential of individuals and teams. This conviction shapes her work at DRFZ, where she promotes gender-equitable communication, strengthens the visibility of women in science, and supports the sustainable integration of equality, diversity, and inclusion into the institute’s research and workplace culture.

Among her initiatives are the development and implementation of the first organization-wide staff survey at DRFZ and the translation of its findings into strategic actions that strengthen trust, engagement, and an inclusive organizational culture. Working closely with the institute’s directors and leadership team, she helps translate survey findings into strategic initiatives that address organizational challenges and support long-term cultural and institutional development. She also launched the weekly “Hello Weekend” newsletter series, which uses storytelling, self-reflection, and thought-provoking perspectives to encourage dialogue around diversity, equity, inclusion, and workplace culture, helping to integrate these topics into everyday organizational life.

Her commitment contributed to the broader institutional efforts recognized through the Total E-Quality Award 2025–2027, honoring excellence in gender equality, diversity, and family-friendly workplace practices. For Dr. Khodadadi, however, recognition is not the goal—the impact is.