UA Ruhr Celebrates Women in Diplomacy: Advancing Equity in Science Diplomacy

In 2022, the UN General Assembly proclaimed June 24 as the International Day of Women in Diplomacy. This initiative aligns with the SDGs, aiming to achieve equal participation of women in decision-making processes against the backdrop of the structural underrepresentation of women in the diplomatic sphere, among others.

In recognition of today, UA Ruhr marks it with key discussion points from "Women at the Forefront of Science Diplomacy," convened on February 13, 2025, in Washington, D.C., co-hosted by The Women in Science Diplomacy Association (WiSDA) and the Embassy of the Federal Republic Germany in Washington DC, in the form of a press release.

During the roundtable, stakeholders from the transatlantic academic exchange and higher education system came together to discuss collaborative strategies supporting women and equality in science diplomacy while being acknowledged, represented, and recognized for their impact on shaping international research networks and policy discussions.

Download the Advancing Equity in Science Diplomacy press release [here] for insights on key discussion points and recommendations.

#SCALEability: Transfer in Educational Research and ED-Tech in Germany and the US

New York, NY — On June 9, 2025, the University Alliance Ruhr, in collaboration with 1014 – space for ideas and the German Center for Research and Innovation (DWIH) New York, hosted #SCALEability: ED-Tech Transfer in Germany and the US at The Liederkranz in New York City. UA Ruhr’s Priya S. Nayar facilitated the session from 2 pm to 5 pm. The afternoon brought together a diverse and interdisciplinary audience of educators from both universities and schools alongside professionals from education, nonprofit, city governance, finance, funding, and business backgrounds. Together, they participated in deeply engaged discussions around innovation, collaboration, and impact in the education sector with a special focus on similarities and opportunities between Germany and the United States.

  A central feature of the afternoon was a conversation-style presentation featuring:

• Prof. Dr. Bettina Amrhein (University of Duisburg-Essen)
• Prof. Dr. Tish Jennings (University of Virginia)
• Expertly moderated by Prof. Dr. Martin Ihrig (New York University).  

The dialogue made it clear that the concept of scalability in education goes far beyond reach and technical innovation. It was emphasized that a meaningful scale must also involve impact, particularly in creating emotionally safe and inclusive classrooms. Amrhein and Jennings’ work addresses the goal of relieving educators from overwhelming workloads and equipping them to meet the individual needs of their students while creating emotionally safe learning environments, drawing on evidence-based programs. Through this approach, children are enabled to foster creativity, experience collaboration, problem-solving, and self-discovery, which are essential skills for personal development and growth.

A key takeaway from the presentation was that both scholars center their projects on emotional well-being, have secured funding to implement their models in real-world school environments, and are committed to long-term impact. As part of their scaling strategies, both are exploring the use of AI to extend the reach and sustainability of their initiatives, recognizing technology as a tool to support educators and improve learning outcomes at scale:

•  Prof. Amrhein's Umbraise program is scheduled to be implemented in 1,000 German schools between 2025 and 2027, with support from national grants.
• Prof. Jennings's CARE program has already been funded, implemented, rigorously evaluated, and replicated through support from the US Department of Education. She is currently leading a team developing "Marzy," an AI tutor designed to support educators and students, which will soon begin pilot testing.

The afternoon concluded with interactive roundtable discussions led by Dr. Kathrin DiPaola (1014) and Dr. Jan Lüdert (DWIH New York), which focused on two central themes: Innovation Processes: Principal Investigators & CEO and Funding: Opportunities & Barriers. Building on the earlier presentation, the roundtables explored shared challenges and opportunities for the transfer of education research and ed-tech. From a funding and innovation perspective, discussions underscored the necessity of a clear business plan with strategic positioning within networks, a well-defined product niche and product, cross-sector partnerships, including collaborations with existing companies in the ed-tech sector, and a credible exit strategy. These elements were identified as essential to attracting long-term investment and achieving sustainable, scalable growth.

The event also underscored the value of transatlantic cooperation. Through their reciprocal research partnership and active knowledge exchange, Amrhein and Jennings demonstrate how German and US schools can mutually benefit from shared insights. Despite national differences, both are confronting similar structural barriers within their school systems—including a shortage of facilitators, limited infrastructure for ongoing educator support, and the challenge of finding a sustainable business model to scale and effectively embed innovation. In addition, both are navigating the dual role of being a Principal Investigator and CEO, finding a balance between academic research and the entrepreneurial mindset required to implement and scale their innovations. Their ongoing collaboration is enabling the exchange of best practices across borders, helping to address individual and systemic challenges through shared lenses.  

Participants included Prof. Dr. Karen Shire, University of Duisburg-Essen; Prof. Dr. Kurt Becker, Emeritus Vice Dean for Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at NYU Tandon School of Engineering; Dr. Nina Gray, Associate Vice Provost for Research at NYU; Dr. Joann Halpern, Adjunct Professor of International Education at NYU; Prof. Dr. Sven Horak, Zizza Tobin Professor of Management at St. John's University in New York; David G. Di Gregorio, NJ School Administrator; as well as representatives from Overseas Press Club of America, Columbia University, Morgan Library, Cornell University, University of Buffalo, CUNY, Mindful Philanthropy, NYC Dept. of Education, NYC city government, and more.

To view photos from June 9th, please visit our photographer, Nathalie Schueller's link: https://nathalieschueller.smugmug.com/Official-Events-2025/UA-Ruhr-SCALE-ABILITY-Talk-and-Networking-Event-June-9-2025/n-FBjKQX. If you would like to request digital copies of a particular photo or photos, please contact us at intern@uaruhr.de with the file name/s. 

The NAFSA 2025 Annual Conference & Expo

San Diego, CA

The NAFSA 2025 Annual Conference & Expo brought together thousands (approx. 8000 participants in 2025) of international education professionals in San Diego, California, underscoring the field’s collective commitment to fostering meaningful global engagement. With more than 250 sessions, poster fairs, and networking opportunities, the event encouraged thoughtful exchange around emerging trends, strategic collaboration, and best practices. Notably, this year’s conference was attended by more than 140 university presidents. The conference theme, “Purpose, Place, and Partnership,” highlighted the importance of intentional engagement - recognizing “place” not only as a physical space, but as a context for building inclusive, sustainable global learning environments.

UA Ruhr took part at the German Pavilion, hosted by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), further deepening our transatlantic partnerships and institutional connections. We were represented at workshops, sessions, and poster presentations taking place during the conference as well as the annual UA Ruhr reception which was attended by approximately 70 partners and friends of UA Ruhr. 

Highlights of the conference included opening remarks by NAFSA Board President Ahmad Ezzeddine (Wayne State University) and NAFSA CEO Dr. Fanta Aw, both of whom emphasized the essential role of international education in advancing access, inclusion, and global cooperation. Besides them, the NAFSA 2025 featured speakers are listed here. 

Against the backdrop of evolving U.S. visa policies - particularly the temporary halt on international student visas - the atmosphere at the conference was marked by concern and collective problem-solving, as the community sought adaptive solutions. On May 30^th - NAFSA joined a coalition letter led by ACE (American Council on Education) to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, expressing concern over a directive to pause new student visa interviews for expanded social media vetting. The letter warns that this could delay international students from arriving for the summer and fall 2025 terms, and raises alarm over potential visa revocations for Chinese students already in the U.S. Citing international students’ $44 billion economic impact in 2023–2024 and the sector’s cooperation on national security, the letter urges the State Department to minimize disruptions, clearly communicate changes, and reduce backlogs to protect the upcoming academic cycle. 

Looking ahead, NAFSA 2026 will be held in Orlando, Florida under the theme “Global by Design,” focusing on innovation, equity, and the future of global education.

Please find UA Ruhr NAFSA Photos here.

DAAD Celebrates 100 Years of Global Academic Exchange Jubilee in New York

The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) marked its 100th anniversary with memorable programming from April 3rd to 4th at the German House – home of the German Consulate and German Mission to the United Nations in New York City. The two-day event, themed "Building Lifelong Connections in Science and Education,” brought DAAD alumni, scholars, and thought leaders together to reflect on the impactful legacy and explore the future of international academic collaboration.

Thursday, April 3rd, opened with remarks from Secretary General DAAD Sicks, State Secretary BMBF Ertner, Director General for Culture and Society for the AA Beste and a warm welcome from Consul General Knorn of the German Consulate General New York; followed by a lively panel discussion featuring DAAD alumni from across North America – Fulbright US’s Kramer, Leuphana Univ.’s Ptatscheck, Columbia Univ.’s Wu, Univ. of British Columbia’s Huebner, moderated by DAAD North America’s Strowa. Their personal stories highlighted the transformative impact of academic exchange on their careers and fostering international connections and understanding. That evening, guests including UA Ruhr alumni attended the Sound Understanding concert at Carnegie Hall, an annual tradition celebrating the intersection of music, culture, and diplomacy. German Ambassador to the United States, HE Andreas Michaelis, opened the concert with remarks emphasizing the enduring importance of transatlantic partnerships in education and the arts. The evening was moderated by Fmr. Director of DAAD Britta Baron and the concert featured performances by current and former DAAD scholarship recipients, showcasing the program's commitment to supporting artistic excellence.

On Friday, April 4th, the focus shifted to the future of international education and research. The morning panel explored sustainable partnerships in a rapidly changing world, addressing challenges like digital transformation, climate change, and shifting geopolitical dynamics. In the afternoon, parallel sessions, including "Visions of the Future — Now and Then," examined forward-looking themes. Campbell, for example, DAAD alumnus and Associate Professor of Urban Planning at the University of Michigan, discussed sustainable urban development, balancing utopian and dystopian visions in the age of emerging technologies like generative AI.

A key moment of the day was the DAAD-AA Excellence Awards for International Exchange presentation. This year's honorees were Wong, Assistant Professor in the Economics Division at Babson College, and Daum, Professor in the History Department at SUNY Buffalo. Both were recognized for their exceptional research and contributions to transatlantic interconnectedness and academic collaboration.

As DAAD looks ahead to the next century, the New York Jubilee served as a powerful reminder of its mission to foster global academic exchange while strengthening enduring connections in science, education, and beyond. The University Alliance Ruhr was proud to take part in this historic celebration.

Annual Report of UA Ruhr's North America Activities 2024

University Alliance Ruhr Releases 2024 Activity Report: Now Available for Download

The University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr) is proud to announce the release of its 2024 Activity Report! This comprehensive document highlights the year’s achievements, collaborations, and initiatives that have shaped the transatlantic connections between the Ruhr universities and their North American partners.

In the past year, UA Ruhr has continued to foster innovation and academic exchange through joint research projects, new partnerships, and successful events, further strengthening the bond between Ruhr University Bochum, TU Dortmund University, and the University of Duisburg-Essen and North America.

Whether you’re a researcher, student, partner, or supporter of UA Ruhr, this report offers valuable insights into our ongoing commitment to international collaboration and academic excellence.

Download the 2024 Activity Report [here] and discover how UA Ruhr is driving progress and innovation through global connections.

International Senior Fellowship Program

Call for Applications

INTERNATIONAL SENIOR FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMME 2026/2027

The College for Social Sciences and Humanities is an Institute for Advanced Study established in 2021 as part of the Research Alliance Ruhr, a joint initiative of the University of Duisburg-Essen, Ruhr University Bochum and TU Dortmund University under the umbrella of the University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr). Based in Essen/Germanyin the heart of the Ruhr region, one of Europe’s densest and most vibrant science landscapes, the College offers an excellent academic environment for outstanding international researchers who seek to work on a self-selected research project in close collaboration with local tandem partners from the UA Ruhr.

The international Senior Fellowships will be awarded for six months and may start on 1 March 2026 or1 September 2026.

Application Requirements

Senior Fellowships will be awarded to advanced and well-established senior researchers (preferably R4 level) who

• are active members of a foreign university or research institution (both at the time of application and during the fellowship),
• have an outstanding research profile in the social sciences and/or the humanities (proven primarily by a significant track record of excellent publications),
• have completed their doctorate at least six years prior to their application, and
• seek to initiate or intensify research collaboration with a fellow researcher from the UA Ruhr.

As the Senior Fellowship Programme is based on the principle of collaboration, applicants are required to identify a matching tandem partner from the UA Ruhr prior to their application.

Tandem Partnerships

Tandem partnerships can be established with advanced, highly experienced senior researchers (at least R3 level) from one of the three member universities of the UA Ruhr (University of Duisburg-Essen, Ruhr University Bochum, TU Dortmund University) working in the fields of social sciences and/or humanities. In addition to being an integral part of a joint research collaboration during the fellowship, the tandem partners will actively integrate the international Senior Fellows into the academic landscape of the UA Ruhr.

More information for potential tandem partners can be found here: www.college-uaruhr.de/fellowship/application/tandem-partners.

Financial Arrangements

Depending on the Fellow’s individual situation, the College for Social Sciences and Humanities is able to offer the following funding options:

• Fellows who are granted leave of absence with continued payment of their salary from their home institution receive a general allowance of €3,050 per month, a family allowance of €250 per month (if applicable), and a mobility allowance of €125 per month to cover relocation costs (all amounts pre-tax).
• Fellows who are granted leave of absence without continued payment of their salary from their home institution can be funded by means of a compensation agreement within reasonable limits (usually equivalent to a W3 professorship with approximately €7,100 pre-tax per month). Alternatively, Fellows may receive a monthly grant of €5,000 (pre-tax).
• If necessary, the College can also cover, within reasonable limits, the costs for a substitute of the Fellow at the home institution. This option cannot be combined with other funding options.

To support research collaboration between the Senior Fellows and their tandem partners, each fellowship includes a project budget of €7,500 max. (€1,250 per month) for joint workshops, conferences, publications, etc.

Travel expenses for arrival and for departure after the fellowship will be reimbursed in accordance with the guidelines of the State Travel Act of North Rhine-Westphalia. Visa costs will be reimbursed entirely. Costs for accommodation and health insurance and other expenses need to be covered by the Fellows.

Facilities

All Senior Fellows have a dedicated office in the College facilities at their disposal. The facilities available include well-appointed meeting and conference rooms equipped with modern technology, enabling (hybrid) events such as workshops, lectures, and conferences. The College provides individual support services for its Senior Fellows, including IT support, a library service, and support by a Fellow Manager and Event Coordinator.

Expectations

During their fellowship, the international Senior Fellows are expected to

• live and work in the Ruhr area,
• be present at the College at least three days per week (Tue - Thu),
• actively take part in the weekly colloquium as well as in other academic activities of the College (conferences, lectures, reading groups, etc.),
• collaborate with the tandem partner on a regular basis, and
• organise at least one event (e.g., workshop, lecture, seminar) with the tandem partner.

The Senior Fellows are also expected to acknowledge the College for Social Sciences and Humanities in talks and publications related to the fellowship.

The working language at the College is English, proficiency in German is not mandatory.

Location and Academic Environment

Based in one of the densest and most diversified science hubs in Europe, the College for Social Sciences and Humanities offers its international Senior Fellows excellent conditions for interdisciplinary research and manifold opportunities for academic exchange and networking. For more than 14,000 researchers, the University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr) provides a conducive framework for cutting-edge research and cross-university, interdisciplinary collaboration: it harbours 21 collaborative research centres, 17 research training groups, and dozens of research projects funded by the German Research Foundation, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research or the European Research Council.

All member universities of the UA Ruhr maintain close ties with prestigious national and international research institutions, such as the Max Planck Society and the Leibniz Association, and European university networks, such as Aurora and UNIC. Furthermore, the Senior Fellows will be in close contact with the interdisciplinary research professorships and junior research groups of the College. Fellows may also profit from various local collaborative research centres in the social sciences and humanities and partnerships with other research institutions, such as the Folkwang University of the Arts in Essen. A large variety of renowned museums, theatres, galleries, archives, and other cultural institutions adds to the attractive environment of the Ruhr region.

Other German university cities such as Düsseldorf, Cologne, or Münster are within short reach. Several destinations in bordering European countries Belgium, the Netherlands, France, or Switzerland are only a few hours’ travel away.

More information about the University Alliance Ruhr: www.uaruhr.de

Research Alliance Ruhr

As part of the UA Ruhr, the Research Alliance Ruhr was founded in 2021 to concentrate excellence in different research fields: along with the College for Social Sciences and Humanities, the four Research Centres “One Health Ruhr – From Molecules to Systems”, “Chemical Sciences and Sustainability”, “Trustworthy Data Science and Security”, and “Future Energy Materials and Systems” form its constituent parts. The Research Alliance Ruhr is financed by the Ministry of Culture and Science of the Federal State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

How to apply

Applicants are asked to submit their application via the online form: www.college-uaruhr.de/fellowship/application-form.

Applications must include:

• an abstract of the planned research project (up to 2,500 characters incl. spaces)
• a brief outline of the planned research project and the intended tandem collaboration (written in English, up to 10,000 characters incl. spaces)
• information on the preferred period of the fellowship
• information on the preferred funding option
• the name of the potential tandem partner and a letter of intent in which the partner confirms their commitment to collaborate with the applicant during the fellowship
• the desired outcome/goal of the fellowship and tandem collaboration (e.g., joint conference, publication, grant proposal)
• CV (incl. a list of the applicant’s five most important publications)

The application deadline is 25 May 2025 (23:59 CEST).

The selection of Fellows will take place in July 2025, selected candidates will be informed shortly thereafter. The selection committee may conduct interviews via video conference as part of the selection process.

For detailed information on the international Senior Fellowship Programme, please read the FAQ.

With questions regarding the international Senior Fellowship Programme, please contact Sophia-Helena Zwaka (e-mail: fellowship@college-uaruhr.de, phone: +49 201 183-6543).

Call for Applications: Intern in New York City

🚀 Intern in New York City with University Alliance Ruhr! 🌍✨
Are you a student at Ruhr University Bochum, TU Dortmund University, or the University of Duisburg-Essen?
Looking for an exciting international experience that combines higher education, transatlantic collaboration, and hands-on project management?

UA Ruhr North America is offering a 6.5-month internship in New York City!

🗽 What’s in it for you?
✅ Gain insight into international science diplomacy
✅ Support flagship fellowship programs
✅ Manage events, social media & press relations
✅ Receive a scholarship of up to $1,500/month

🎯 Who should apply?
🔹 Advanced students (min. 3 semesters)
🔹 Fluent in German (native level) & English (C1)
🔹 Strong skills in communication, project management & social media
🔹 Passion for education policy & transatlantic collaboration

📅 Internship period: October 1, 2025 – April 15, 2026

📩 Apply by March 15, 2025 → Check here for more information 

Join us in shaping transatlantic academic connections! 🌎✈️

Launching the BU-TU Dortmund Research Network

On October 11-12, Boston University (BU) welcomed a delegation from TU Dortmund University for a two-day workshop and reception to kick off the new BU-TU Dortmund Research Network. This initiative is designed to foster collaboration in key research areas such as membrane biological chemistry, high-energy theory, and quantum condensed matter physics.

The event began with a reception at BU’s Kenmore Room, attended by Dr. Sonja Kreibich, Consul General of Germany to the New England States. Senior BU leaders, including Senior Vice President Ken Olliff, Associate Dean Sean Mullen, and CAS Research Director Kathleen Shannon, also joined the gathering. Sponsored by BU’s Office of the Vice President for Research, the reception provided an opportunity to discuss shared goals and the exciting potential of this transatlantic partnership.

Leading the delegation from TU Dortmund was Professor Matthias Schneider, who spoke about the importance of collaboration in tackling complex scientific challenges and advancing research across disciplines.

The workshop featured presentations from prominent researchers at both universities, including:

Professor Michelle Sander (BU, Electrical and Computer Engineering)

Professor Jan Kierfeld (TU, Physics)

Professor Herre Jelger Risselada (TU, Physics)

Professor Joerg Debus (TU, Physics)

Professor Masha Kamenetska (BU, Chemistry/Physics)

Professor Bjoern Reinhard (BU, Chemistry/Physics)

Professor John Straub (BU, Chemistry)

In addition to faculty presentations, early-career researchers also played a key role.

TU Dortmund students Annabelle Sömer, Anna M. Mendel, and Michael Gutnikov shared their work and collaborated with BU researchers, including Dr. Panagis Samolis, a postdoctoral fellow in the Sander lab, and Nick Russo, a BU Physics graduate student in Professor Kevin Smith’s lab.

The BU-TU Dortmund Research Network marks an exciting new chapter in international collaboration for both universities. By combining expertise and resources, BU and TU Dortmund aim to make significant contributions to fields like membrane biological chemistry, quantum physics, and high-energy theory.

Events like this don’t happen without a lot of support behind the scenes. Thanks go to BU’s Physics staff, including Robyn Kinch, Grace Lillibridge, Christina Crabtree, and Mitch, as well as Rose Deshon, Carolina Gonzalez-Aller Winslow, and Sarah Flanagan from BU’s Office of the Provost, for ensuring the event ran smoothly as well DFG and UA Ruhr.  

The BU-TU Dortmund Research Network is just the beginning, and we’re excited to see how this collaboration grows in the years to come.

International Summer Program (ISP) 2025

Discover an Unforgettable Summer at TU Dortmund University’s International Summer Program 2025!

Greetings from TU Dortmund University in Germany! We are thrilled to invite students worldwide to join our International Summer Program (ISP) 2025, a unique and enriching study abroad experience taking place from May 29 to July 31, 2025.

The ISP offers students an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in academic excellence, cultural exploration, and personal growth. Here’s why the ISP 2025 should be on your summer calendar:

Highlights of the International Summer Program (ISP)

1. A Unique Academic Setting
   Unlike many summer programs, the ISP runs during TU Dortmund’s regular summer semester. This ensures a focused and immersive academic experience.

2. Diverse Course Tracks
   Participants can tailor their studies by choosing courses from three exciting tracks:

   • Engineering
   • Humanities
   • Entrepreneurship
     All courses are taught in English!

3. Research Opportunities
   Students can enhance their experience by engaging in research projects, either part-time alongside courses or full-time for deeper immersion.

4. German Language and Culture
   Whether you're a beginner or already familiar with the German language, the ISP provides opportunities to learn and advance your skills. Plus, the cultural program ensures a rich experience beyond the classroom.
   
    

Comprehensive Program Package

For a program fee of €2,200, participants enjoy an extensive service package, including:

• Comfortable accommodation
• Comprehensive health insurance
• A public transport ticket for seamless travel
• A vibrant cultural program and excursions
• Pick-up service from Dortmund’s central train station
  
   

How to Apply

Nominations and applications are open from now until February 15, 2025.

• Nominations: Submit via email.
• Student Applications: Complete the online form.
  
   

Get in Touch

For more information don’t hesitate to contact us at summerprogram@tu-dortmund.de.

Join us for an unforgettable summer at TU Dortmund University—where academic pursuit meets cultural adventure!

Don’t miss this opportunity—apply now and take the first step toward an extraordinary summer in Germany.

Find all the information about our program here.