Start of the new funding period
The Cluster of Excellence "Mathematics Münster: Dynamics – Geometry – Structure" entered its second funding period this month. At a general assembly, the participating researchers elected the Cluster spokespersons, the executive board and further committees, thereby setting the organisational course for continuing successful scientific collaboration.
Collaboration between researchers from different mathematical subdisciplines is at the core of Mathematics Münster. In May last year, the further development of this integrative approach convinced the Excellence Commission to fund the research consortium for a further seven years, from 1 January 2026. "The second funding period offers the opportunity to take our joint research to a new level," said Cluster spokesperson Prof. Dr Thomas Nikolaus. "I am very much looking forward to being part of this development – and am curious about the new scientific discoveries it will make possible.”
Around 200 mathematicians will tackle current challenges covering the entire spectrum of mathematics: from fundamental theoretical research and the analysis of non-linear operators and spaces to application-oriented topics.
The projects are organised into ten interconnected research topics:
T1: K-Groups and cohomology
T2: Moduli spaces in arithmetic and geometry
T3: Models and universes
T4: Groups and actions
T5: Curvature, shape and global analysis
T6: Singularities and PDEs
T7: Field theory and randomness
T8: Random discrete structures and their limits
T9: Multiscale processes and effective behaviour
T10: Deep learning and surrogate methods
At the general assembly on 14 January 2026, the founding members – the principal investigators involved in the renewal proposal – unanimously adopted the new Cluster Regulations. This document regulates the structure, organisation and decision-making structures of the Cluster of Excellence. The members with voting rights confirmed Thomas Nikolaus and Mario Ohlberger as Cluster spokespersons and elected the executive board and the composition of the committees. These bodies contribute to achieving both the scientific and structural objectives of the Cluster. The structural goals include implementing integrated approaches across mathematical disciplines, supporting researchers in the early stages of their careers, and promoting diversity, equal opportunity and inclusion.
The first major event of the new funding period will be the Opening Conference, to be held from 16 to 18 September 2026 at the "Schloss". Just as the Cluster bridges the full spectrum of mathematics, the conference aims to unite renowned international mathematicians, Cluster researchers and early-career scientists. "The conference is intended to provide a platform for lively exchange across different areas of mathematics," said Mario Ohlberger. "We are looking forward to inspiring interdisciplinary dialogue and collaboration that will showcase both external expertise and the innovative strength within our Cluster."
In addition, two dates in 2026 are already highlighting the global recognition of Mathematics Münster researchers. On 31 January, the research results of Prof. Dr. Franziska Jahnke and Dr. Konstantinos Kartas will be presented at the Séminaire N. Bourbaki in Paris. This internationally renowned seminar series is considered as a benchmark for current developments in mathematical research.
Furthermore, Prof. Dr. Ralf Schindler and Prof. Dr. Dr. Katrin Tent have been independently invited to present their research in the Logic section of the International Congress of Mathematicians (ICM), which will take place in late July 2026 in Philadelphia (USA).
Links:
Boards and committees of the Cluster of Excellence Mathematics Münster
Opening Conference: 2nd Funding Period of Mathematics Münster September 2026