Transatlantic Science Cooperation in Transition: Current Dynamics and Challenges in U.S.–German Partnerships

The landscape of scientific cooperation with the United States is undergoing a period of significant change and growing uncertainty. Domestic political polarization, debates surrounding academic freedom, increasing interventions in higher education structures and funding, as well as visa and travel restrictions in the U.S., have noticeably altered the framework conditions for international partnerships. At the same time, evolving discussions around science diplomacy, knowledge security, and technological sovereignty on both sides of the Atlantic are prompting a broader reassessment of international collaboration.

For German universities and funding organizations, these developments raise important questions about the reliability and long-term viability of transatlantic partnerships, as well as how cooperation with one of Germany’s most important partners in science and higher education can continue to be shaped productively in the future.

Drawing on the practical experiences of university representatives and the expertise of the DAAD network in the United States — including the German Centers for Research and Innovation (DWIH) in San Francisco and New York — this panel will explore both the risks and potential opportunities emerging from the current developments. Which areas of cooperation are particularly affected? And what implications do these changes hold for the strategic design and implementation of academic partnerships with the United States?