“I had a chance to see how one of the most respected European universities works”
Prof. Mirela Cokic Dzinic, Professor of Law at the University of Tuzla in Tuzla/Bosnia
Visiting scholar at the Institute for Comparative Law, Conflicts of Law and International Business Law from September 2018 to May 2019
When, how long and in what position did you stay at Heidelberg University?
I was at Heidelberg University from October 2018 until June 2019 as a visiting scholar by invitation of the Institute for Comparative Law, Conflict of Laws and International Business Law. I spent the time working on my postdoctoral studies, specifically on the effectiveness of arbitration (business disputes) in German law, which is a very interesting topic of international business and private law.
Why did you decide to enrol at Heidelberg University?
For students and academics from Bosnia and Herzegovina looking to do research, Heidelberg University is a dream come true. It is the oldest university in Germany with a long tradition and offers many opportunities for research. Heidelberg University brings together people of many different cultures, nations, languages, colours, religions, without any prejudices. What unites them is their love of science and research.
What did you like the best about being at Heidelberg? What suggestions would you have for improvements?
The best part of being a postgraduate researcher in Heidelberg is the fact that I was able to collaborate with scientists from other European countries, acquire practical knowledge and have a chance to see how one of the most respected European universities works. Better connections with researchers from developing countries is an improvement I would suggest. This would also increase Heidelberg University's reputation both within the EU and in non-EU countries.
How did your career continue after your time in Heidelberg?
I’m very satisfied with my career and that I got the chance to teach as a professor of business law at the University of Tuzla in Bosnia and Herzegovina while completing a postdoc. Thanks to the experience I gathered, I am planning several books on arbitration law and will also contribute to an edited volume on international business law. Returning home, I realised that all the experiences and connections I have gained with different people around the world have been the most important aspect for me in my time at Heidelberg University.
What is your view of the German scientific system in comparison to that of your home country or to that of other countries where you may have conducted research?
In comparison to my home country, the German scientific approach is much more disciplined and structured. The research work at Heidelberg University is all analytical, which I like. The system is much more modern, and digital connections offer a variety of opportunities for students and researchers to learn and do research everywhere at any time.
In your opinion, what is the importance of international exchanges for researchers?
The importance of international exchange for researchers is being able to connect with other people from different countries and to improve one’s knowledge of another language, in my case, German.
Do you recommend a research visit to Heidelberg University to your students or to colleagues in your scientific network?
Yes, gladly. I told them everything that fascinated me about Heidelberg University, and I think it might be good for their personal and professional development—especially if their chosen field is the law—to go on research visits to other EU countries.
