Australia-Germany research collaboration flourishes

International collaboration on digital health solutions, combatting superbug infections, and sustainable recycling are among projects funded this year by the Australia-Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme – an initiative of Universities Australia and the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD).

The funding announced today will enable early career researchers from 13 Australian universities to partner with their counterparts in Germany on 28 projects.

More than $600,000 in funding has been committed by these universities to support Australian researchers, and an equivalent amount will be provided by the DAAD, Germany’s national agency for the support of international academic cooperation.

Universities Australia Chief Executive Catriona Jackson said the Australia-Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme illustrates how Australian universities are an integral component of global research collaboration.

“Research success depends on open minds and open collaboration. The projects funded through this scheme will have far-reaching benefits across the world – not just in Germany or Australia,” Ms Jackson said.

“Very strong interest in collaboration from both sides exist despite the challenges of the pandemic, and this application round was highly competitive.”

The Australia-Germany Joint Research Cooperation Scheme has been running since 2015, awarding more than $15 million in funding to 426 projects.

Previously funded projects affected by travel restrictions have had their funding carried forward, and researchers hope to engage with German counterparts once COVID-19 restrictions have been relaxed.

Funding for the Australian researchers is provided by Australian universities and the cost of administering the scheme is supported by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment.

View the entire list of 2021 recipients on the Universities Australia website.

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