Through its interdisciplinary series ‘Studien zur Materiellen Kultur’ ( ), the Institute of Material Culture combines critical analyses of material culture research and fashion theory with approaches from cultural studies and cultural analysis. The aim of the series is to offer students, early-career researchers, established academics and interested members of the public a platform for publication, and to make theses and findings from (teaching) research projects accessible (open access).

Material culture encompasses not only everyday objects – their nature, methods of production, use, distribution and presentation (e.g. in museums) – but also their significance as materialisations of social processes, ways of life and power relations.

Quality assurance for submitted contributions is carried out, depending on the series, either via a peer review or, in the case of theses, via a recommendation from two reviewers. Teaching research findings and exhibition catalogues are published if the project leaders, the editors and the editorial board approve. In addition, there is a scientific advisory boardwhich facilitates academic exchange. Its members act as points of contact for arranging reviewers for peer reviews.

The publishing house Studien zur Materiellen Kultur was founded in 2011. Since then, the publishing house's range has become increasingly differentiated. Prof Dr Karen Ellwanger has been the publisher's editor since 2011. Dr Stefanie Mallon was Editorial Director from 2011 to 2020 and was replaced by Nele M. Fuchs from 2020 until the beginning of 2023. Vivien Müller succeeded her from March 2023 to October 2025. Since November 2025, Sena Harms has assumed the role of Editorial Director of the publishing house.

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