University of Münster Strengthens Research Cooperation with Brazil

The University of Münster aims to further develop its research collaborations with Brazil. On 23 October, Rector Prof. Dr Susanne Menzel-Riedl welcomed two renowned Brazilian academics to the Rector’s Office to discuss future prospects: Prof. Dr. Abílio Baeta Neves, former President of the Brazilian research funding organisation CAPES and Honorary Ambassador of the University of Münster, and Prof. Dr. Draiton Gonzaga de Souza, Co-Director of the Centre for German and European Studies in Brazil.

The discussion focused on the strategic direction of future cooperation. The aim is to explore areas of research in which the scientific strengths of both countries could complement each other across disciplines. Participants identified promising areas of collaboration, particularly in environmental and biodiversity research, medicine, and digital sciences, focusing on artificial intelligence and digital communication. These joint projects are intended to help develop solutions to global challenges.

The Brazil Centre at the University of Münster plays a key role in implementing this initiative. Through its network of over 120 members and its São Paulo Liaison office, the Centre connects researchers in Münster and Brazil, supports the initiation of joint projects, and helps identify suitable funding opportunities.

In addition to the scientific goals, the participants emphasised the importance of science diplomacy. Particularly in times of political uncertainty, they observed that academic cooperation can foster reliable spaces for dialogue and mutual understanding, grounded in shared scientific values.

Based on this, the research priorities discussed should now be elaborated on in more detail, with further joint projects being developed.