CallsThematic Research Network (TRN)

Objectives: Profile development in Thematic Focus Areas, including through start-up funding for collaborative research, networking, promotion of young researchers and transfer

Preliminary remark: The funds of the University of Excellence are earmarked for a specific purpose, they serve the strategic further development of the university in the field of top-level research and may only be used for the purpose of building the profile of the Field of Focus 3 or Heidelberg University, internal and external networking, the promotion of young researchers and transfer.

The FoF3 Research Council announces funding for Thematic Research Networks to support its five research focus areas. Potential networks should be able to further develop at least one of the focus areas:

  • Knowledge Research
  • Cultural Heritage (in Cooperation with the Flagship Initiative “Transforming Cultural Heritage”)  with a special focus on home(s)/origin
  • Disorder/Transformation
  • Corporeality/Embodiment/Synaesthetics/Interaction
  • Friendship/Enmity

In addition to the thematic fit with one or more of these research priorities, the RC pays particular attention to the following objectives of applications for financial support: increasing the number of large research networks (CRCs, RTGs, RTGs, Käte Hamburger Colleges), networking within the University and with non-University institutions (especially internationally), promoting young researchers, integrating Area Studies, Digital Humanities, University Collections and increasing Transfer activities. Proof of the visibility and sustainability of the funded measure is essential.

Object of funding: We are looking for inter- and transdisciplinary Thematic Research Networks at the Field of Focus 3 and/or together with the other FoFs and/or together with extramural partners. Unlike previously (2020-2022) formats of different sizes are sought, and the subsequent 'docking' of further project elements (e.g. junior research groups) to already funded measures is also conceivable. The financial and time requirements should be defined by the objective in terms of profile development. It must be clear that existing structures and networks at FoF 3 or Heidelberg University can be built upon. It is relevant that the measures applied for can present a clearly defined objective that is in line with the priority topics of FoF 3 and corresponds to the funding objectives of the University of Excellence.

Type of funding: A maximum of EUR 50,000 in personnel and material funds can be awarded. The funding requirement must be made plausible with regard to the project objective. Funding can only be provided in 2024. At this stage, no statements can be made about subsequent funding. The earliest possible funding start date is May 15, 2024.

All members of Heidelberg University with at least a doctorate are eligible to apply; the involvement of junior researchers is strongly encouraged.

Advice: Before submitting an application in this funding line, consultation with the consult of the Research Council office of FoF 3 (nele.schneidereit@uni-heidelberg.de).

 

Formalities:

Required information:

  • Title of the research project
  • Summary of the research project (max. 1,500 characters)
  • Objective and research status
  • Own preliminary work and connection to the Heidelberg University (existing priorities and structures as well as existing research infrastructure)
  • Work program with financial and time schedule (limited to the year 2024)
  • Information on the applicant (Research Focus, selected publications, max. 0.5 pages)

Please send your application in electronic form (summarized in a PDF document) with the subject "FoF3-Transfer" to Dr. Nele Schneidereit. 

Call deadline: Sunday, 2nd June 2024

The application is submitted to the FoF3 Research Council. The RC will make a funding recommendation, on which the Rectorate will decide. If you have any questions regarding the call for proposals, please contact Dr. Nele Schneidereit by e-mail (nele.schneidereit@uni-heidelberg.de).