Mahena Stief

Mahena Stief is Professor for Social Competencies and Psychology at the Faculty of Humanities and Natural Sciences, Augsburg University of Applied Sciences, where she has held her position since 2008. Her academic journey began with a Diploma in Psychology from the University of Eichstätt (1997) focused on economic and social psychology, followed by a PhD from the University of Erlangen-Nuremberg (2001) on 'Self-efficacy expectations, goals and career success: A longitudinal study.'

Professor Stief's research spans multiple dimensions of workplace psychology with particular expertise in Personnel Management, Agile Working, Organizational Psychology, Social Psychology, Change Management, Intercultural Competence, and Communication Psychology. Her work demonstrates a consistent focus on practical applications of psychological principles in professional settings, examining how individuals and organizations can optimize performance through effective communication, leadership, and cultural understanding.

Her publication record shows strong engagement with contemporary workplace challenges, particularly around agile methodologies, intercultural competence in higher education, and ethical personnel management. The research themes reveal an evolving trajectory from foundational work in social psychology toward increasingly applied research addressing modern workplace dynamics and educational approaches.

As an educator, Professor Stief has made substantial contributions to program development, having established the Business Psychology degree program and participated in developing the Social Work Bachelor's program. She also played a key role in establishing the ZSI between 2011 and 2015. Her teaching spans multiple programs including Business Psychology, Social Work, Business Administration, and Identity Design, with a focus on practical skill development through certificate programs in Social Skills and as a Trainer for Social Skills.

Professor Stief's professional approach integrates academic rigor with practical application, evidenced by her work in training, coaching, change management, and personnel selection alongside her academic responsibilities. This dual perspective enriches her teaching and research, providing students with insights that bridge theory and practice in organizational settings.