Science Diplomacy in Action
How can future healthcare leaders shape the global conversation on healthy aging? Thirty medical students from ten countries are tackling this question through the Science Diplomacy in Action working group, culminating in collaborative projects and a high-impact workshop this summer in Germany.
Since December 2024, thirty medical and health profession students from around the world have joined the Science Diplomacy in Action working group as part of the International Collaboration and Exchange Program (ICEP), focusing on the topic of healthy aging.
Participants were selected from leading medical schools in Germany, the United States, Japan, Israel, Turkey, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, Spain, South Africa, and Kenya. They were collaborating in small teams of 5–6 as well as in larger groups of 10–15, developing guidelines and recommendations to promote healthy aging. Their work culminated in group presentations and a workshop at the ICEP Academic Immersion Travel Conference (AIT), taking place in Halle and Berlin, Germany, from June 26 to July 2, 2025.
Three project tracks were underway and completed by June 2025. The German Center for Research and Innovation (DWIH) has supported the participation of several students traveling to Germany. DWIH New York Head of Programs Dr. Jan Lüdert addressed the students and co-led the workshop together with ICEP Director Anette Wu and a faculty member from Columbia University.
Science Diplomacy in Action – Analysis of Students’ Experiences in Global Teams
During the International Collaboration and Exchange Program (ICEP), a study was conducted to identify and analyze the responses of health professions students participating in global teamwork groups under the premise “Science Diplomacy in Action – Analysis of Students’ Experiences in Global Teams.” A total of 34 students responded to a voluntary online survey, and a thematic analysis of their responses was performed to develop preliminary themes and subthemes that highlight their experiences. Overall, students reported a common theme of active communication and team-building activities as key factors in improving global team dynamics.
You can download the complete poster here:
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Event Information
June 26 to July 2, 2025
Halle and Berlin, Germany
Organizer(s): ICEP, Columbia University, DWIH New York