FAUconnect

The most innovative research projects often come into being at the interfaces between different disciplines. As a university which offers the entire spectrum of academic disciplines, and true to its motto ‘Knowledge in motion’, FAU offers an outstanding environment for strong interdisciplinary networking. With the FAUconnect dialogue platform, researchers have a tool for initiating and further developing their interdisciplinary research projects. In addition, FAUconnect provides the opportunity to obtain funding as part of the Emerging Fields Initiative (EFI).

The aim of the FAUconnect dialogue platform is to systematically develop forward-looking areas of research at FAU that are relevant to its strategy. The process provides fresh impetus for new innovative research networks and allows promising initiatives to be identified and supported from an early stage. The ultimate goal is to increase the acquisition of third-party funding from renowned external funding programmes to strengthen FAU’s competitiveness.

Format

Space for networking and creativity. This is where tomorrow’s ideas come to life (Image: Larisa Zaburdaeva).

FAUconnect offers various needs-based formats that are oriented towards the individual aims of a project. The range of formats on offer include everything from small interactive workshops in Erlangen to retreats lasting a day and a half at the Fraunhofer research campus in Waischenfeld. Participants are encouraged to look beyond the boundaries of their own academic fields and discover exciting areas for research and new ways of collaborating. Exchanging ideas with the Executive Board about the strategic focus of the project is also a vital part of the programme. The programme is devised individually for each group, depending on the participants and the issues to be discussed. If required, the workshops are professionally moderated, which helps to cluster and visualise ideas.

FAUconnect will not be taking place in its usual form due to the coronavirus pandemic. Online solutions will be offered instead.

Funding

The amount and duration of funding depends on the specific goals of the research initiative and the selected format. In the case of larger retreats, a financial contribution is expected from the group (e.g. via the faculties, organisational units or chairs involved).

Eligibility

Applications may be submitted by all FAU professors, particularly well-qualified lecturers (Privatdozenten/innen), heads of junior research groups and postdoctoral candidates.

Information on how to apply can be found on the “Applications and contact” page.