The universities of Bremen and Oldenburg are intensifying their cooperation within the framework of the federal and state excellence strategy. The universities of Bremen and Oldenburg are intensifying their cooperation as part of the Excellence Strategy of the Federal and State Governments. Both universities have submitted several full proposals for Clusters of Excellence in order to expand their research strength in important future-oriented areas. A decision on the funding will be made in May 2025.
Cluster of Excellence “The Ocean Floor – Earth’s Uncharted Interface” (MARUM)
The Cluster of Excellence “The Ocean Floor – Earth’s Uncharted Interface” is submitted as a joint proposal by the universities of Bremen and Oldenburg. The focus is on research into the seafloor as a dynamic interface in the global Earth system. Scientists are investigating how processes in the ocean floor influence climate change, the carbon cycle, and biological productivity.
Ralph Bruder, President of the University of Oldenburg: “We have not yet reached our goal, but the commitment that everyone involved has shown so far is already excellent. This applies in particular to the outstanding coordination with the University of Bremen, our closest partner.” Jutta Günther, President of the University of Bremen, adds: “This joint proposal combines the expertise of both universities and addresses the central challenges of our time.”
Cluster of Excellence at the University of Bremen
The University of Bremen has also submitted another application:
“The Martian Mindset: A Scarcity-Driven Engineering Paradigm”
The cluster is dedicated to the question of how scarce resources can be used efficiently. The researchers use Mars as a thought experiment for sustainable production methods. The aim is to rethink material extraction and manufacturing and to avoid fossil fuels.
Clusters of Excellence at the University of Oldenburg
The University of Oldenburg has submitted two further applications:
“NaviSense: The Sensory Basis, Mechanisms and Impacts of Animal Navigation”
The planned cluster wants to find out how animals navigate over long distances. The findings will also be incorporated into new technical applications. The focus is on physical, biochemical, and physiological processes as well as quantum-mechanical phenomena. Conclusions will also be drawn for animal ecology and nature conservation.
“Hearing4all.connects: Innovative Technologies for Hearing Health – from the ear to the brain to society”
After two successful applications, the cluster is applying for a further funding period. The Hannover Medical School and the University of Hannover are also involved. The focus is on innovative solutions for the care of people with hearing impairments. Future areas of focus will be data-driven solutions for hearing aids, genetic causes of hearing loss, and social-communicative factors of listening comprehension.
University of Excellence: Working Together for Success
Both universities are striving to achieve the title of University of Excellence together. The prerequisite for this is having at least three Clusters of Excellence in a network. If they are successful, they could receive additional funds to expand their international leadership.
The goal is clear: excellent research, sustainable innovation, and added value for society. The cooperation between Bremen and Oldenburg sets the course for the future and strengthens the region as a hub of science.