Joint Senate Meeting: Universities of Bremen and Oldenburg Strengthen Cooperation

For the first time in their history, the academic senates of the universities of Bremen and Oldenburg met together on December 11, 2024. At the Hanse-Wissenschaftskolleg Delmenhorst, they discussed joint plans for the future in research, teaching, and knowledge transfer. Both senates unanimously endorsed the increased cooperation – including in the context of the Excellence Strategy.

Shaping the Future Together

“This meeting was an important prelude to opening a new chapter in our collaboration,” said Prof. Dr. Jutta Günther, President of the University of Bremen.
Prof. Dr. Ralph Bruder, President of the University of Oldenburg, added: “We are driving forward excellent research and transfer with clear goals for our region.”

The two universities have been cooperating closely for years, particularly in the fields of marine, polar, and climate research, computer science, health, and energy. Together, they are also pursuing the goal of applying as a joint consortium in the Excellence competition.

Excellence Strategy: Clusters under Review

In order to jointly receive the title of University of Excellence, the universities need three approved Clusters of Excellence. Four cluster applications are currently under review:

• “Ocean Floor” (Bremen/Oldenburg)
• “Martian Mindset” (Bremen)
• “Hearing4all” (Oldenburg)
• “NaviSense” (Oldenburg)

The decision regarding the clusters will be made in May 2025.
“We are optimistic about the success of our applications. Regardless of the outcome, we will continue to pool our expertise and expand our cooperation,” says Jutta Günther. Ralph Bruder: “Common research focuses, bright minds, and innovative IT concepts – our close collaboration will pay off in the long term.”

hoi Start-Up Factory: Strengthening the Region

The universities are also working together to promote start-ups. With the hoi startup factory (formerly “Lighthouse Northwest”), a joint project was launched to promote start-ups in Bremen and northwest Lower Saxony. The Startup Factory is supported by nine regional universities and the business community and aims to help young companies in the start-up and growth phase.