Lower Saxony – Scotland
Joint Forum 2026
Get ready for two days of bold ideas, sharp minds, and meaningful transregional collaboration. The European Centre for Advanced Studies (ECAS) invites you to the 7th Lower Saxony–Scotland Joint Forum – where research excellence meets strategic partnership.
For years, the Joint Forum has brought together higher education institutions, research organisations, policymakers, and innovation leaders from both regions. This year’s edition at Technische Universität Braunschweig returns to the Forum’s original spirit: a place of encounter, dialogue, and forward-looking cooperation.
Day 1 opens with a panel discussion on “A Lower Saxony–Scotland Perspective on Science and Universities in the Age of Artificial Intelligence”, followed by interactive workshops and an official reception.
Day 2 focuses on the Lower Saxony – Research and Innovation Scheme. Awardees will present their projects, share insights, and offer practical advice for prospective applicants. Additional workshop sessions will also be available.
Programme – Day 1 (Technische Universität Braunschweig)
Arrival, Registration, and Coffee
Welcome Addresses
President Technische Universität Braunschweig & Spokeswoman Standing Committee on Internationalisation of the Lower Saxonian State Rectors’ Conference
Vice President Research, The Royal Society of Edinburgh
Panel I: A Lower Saxony – Scotland Perspective on Science and Universities in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Abstract
- Universities and academic institutions (e.g. integration of AI into research, teaching, assessment, and institutional governance; implications for academic standards, skills, and organisational structures)
- AI providers and application partners (e.g. companies and technical partners developing and implementing AI systems for universities; questions of design, deployment, data access, and alignment with academic needs and values)
- Funding bodies, policy makers, and ethics committees (e.g. evaluation of research proposals, regulation, ethical oversight, and the broader impact of AI on research funding, accountability, and higher education policy)
Moderation:
Professor for Information Systems, in particular Data Science, Leuphana University of Lüneburg
Perspective of Universities and Academic Institutions:
Professor of Computing Science, University of Glasgow & Visiting Professor at the Hasso-Plattner-Institute, Potsdam
Prof. Dr. Esther-Maria Vidal
Head of Scientific Data Management Research Group, TIB–Leibniz Information Centre for Science and Technology, Leibniz University Hannover
AI-Providers, Application Partners, Networks and Research Groups:
Prof. Dr. Ramin Yahyapour
Managing Director Gesellschaft für wissenschaftliche Datenverarbeitung mbH Göttingen, University of Göttingen
Karim N. Henein
Thematic Lead AI, Digitalagentur Niedersachsen
Head of Data, The Data Lab
Funding Bodies, Policy Makers, and Ethics Committees:
Dr. Judith Hartstein
Researcher Research System and Science Dynamics, German Centre for Higher Education Research and Science Studies (DZHW)
Head of International Partnerships and Engagement, Arts and Humanities Research Council
Coffee Break
Workshop Sessions
Workshop 1
Integrated Thermal Energy Storage for Urban Sustainability
Abstract
This workshop will discuss how Underground Thermal Energy Storage (UTES) can function not as a standalone technology, but as a system-level flexibility asset embedded in urban energy systems, including district heating and cooling (DHC) networks, electricity system and existing subsurface infrastructure such as metro tunnels, legacy mine workings and thermally activated foundations (energy piles), including coexistence with transport infrastructure, groundwater resources and drinking-water protection zones, and subsidence risk areas.
A selection of case studies will allow workshop participants to assess options to enable reliable, low-carbon and dispatchable heat at scale in Europe’s most energy-intensive urban areas, founded on an integrative understanding of the technical, social, economic, organisational, environmental, legal and regulatory systems underpinning the deployment of UTES.
Rankine Chair of Energy Engineering, University of Glasgow
Institute of Sustainability Governance, Leuphana University of Lüneburg
Postgraduate Researcher, University of Glasgow
Workshop 2
Stress-Testing Critical Infrastructure: From Cascading Failures to Resilient Systems
Abstract
How can we make credible decisions about critical infrastructure when data are limited, uncertain, or conflicting?
This workshop brings together researchers from the University of Strathclyde and Leibniz University Hannover to develop fast and trustworthy methods for analysing the resilience and security of complex transport and energy networks. Participants will explore how uncertainty modelling, network analysis, and efficient simulation can reveal critical failure pathways and support better-informed interventions and moving from uncertain and limited data to credible decisions for more resilient and secure infrastructure. The workshop will also identify shared research priorities, practical use cases, and opportunities for sustained Scotland–Lower Saxony collaboration.
Prof. Dr. Edoardo Patelli
Head of the Centre for Intelligent Infrastructure, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Strathclyde
Dr. Matteo Broggi
Deputy Head of the Institute for Risk and Reliability, Leibniz Universität Hannover
Closing Address
Vice President of Entrepreneurship, Transfer, and Internationalization, Leuphana University of Lüneburg & Academic Director European Centre for Advanced Studies
Adresses, Reception & Whiskey Tasting
State Secretary, Lower Saxony Ministry of Science and Culture
Laura-Louise O’Reilly
Director of the Representation of the Scottish Government in Germany
Optional & Self-Paying Dinner
Programme – Day 2 (Technische Universität Braunschweig)
Registration & Coffee
Welcome Address
Prof. Dr. Markus Henke
Vice President for Research and Internationalisation, Technische Universität Braunschweig
Input on Lower Saxony-Scotland Funding Opportunities
Moderation:
Prof. Dr. Markus Reihlen
Vice President of Entrepreneurship, Transfer, and Internationalization, Leuphana University of Lüneburg & Academic Director European Centre for Advanced Studies
Speakers:
Programme Director, Volkswagen Foundation
Research Awards Officer, The Royal Scociety of Edinburgh
Dorothea Fendel
Programme Officer, German Research Foundation
Head of International Partnerships and Engagement, Arts and Humanities Research Council
Dr. Janette Wark
Head of Regional Engagement (Scotland), Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC)
Head of Innovation, The Data Lab
Coffee Break
Panel II – Research in Partnership – Insights from the Lower Saxony–Scotland Research and Innovation Scheme (Stream II – Excellence Track)
Abstract
Moderation:
Emeritus Vice-Principal (Internationalisation), University of Glasgow & Senior Academic Advisory, European Centre for Advanced Studies
Stream II - Excellence Track Projects:
Enhancing Atomic Spectroscopy with Optical Angular Momentum
Abstract
What happens when atoms meet light that carries a twist?
This project explores how hot atomic vapors interact with structured light, meaning light fields with spatially varying polarization and intrinsic optical angular momentum, and how this interaction can be turned into a resource for quantum sensing.
The research rests on three pillars:
– fundamental studies of structured light–atom interaction,
– the development of atomic quantum sensors such as magnetometers and
gyroscopes that exploit it, and
– the investigation of dipole–dipole interactions and collective dynamics in hot polar atomic ensembles.
In this first year, the project concentrates on the light-atom interaction studies and on first sensor concepts. Its goal is to lay the foundation for a long-term cooperative research line, with robust, GNSS-independent navigation as one possible application.
Leibniz University Hannover
University of Glasgow
Moonlight – Analysis of the Cis-Lunar Dynamics of Space Object
Abstract
tba
Prof. Dr Carsten Wiedemann
Director of the DLR Institute of Lightweight Systems, Braunschweig, and Professor of Adaptronics, Technische Universität Braunschweig
Lorenz Böttcher
Researcher, Technische Universität Braunschweig
RANGeR: Empowering Resilient Net-Zero Grids
Abstract
Prof. Dr. Graeme Burt
University of Strathclyde
Smart Grid Testing, OFFIS
Smart Grid Testing, OFFIS
A Framework to Predict Sensitivities of Transient Response for Robust Integrated Design of Electrical Propulsion Power Trains (STRIDE)
Abstract
The long-term vision of STRIDE is to create a design framework for hybrid electric aircraft propulsion systems to enable identification of key inter-system design trades and sensitivities for solutions which balance optimisation of emissions and MRO costs. From this 10 month project, STRIDE will output an initial version of this framework, underpinned by a coupled electrical power-gas turbine propulsion simulation model to identify initial design trades, system sensitivities and balance system design for emissions and deterioration. In this research endeavor, the expertise of the University of Srathclyde (UST) and the Technische Universität Braunschweig (TUBS) are uniquely combined: UST model the electrical part of the propulsion system; TUBS model the gas turbine and the combustion chamber. As part of the Excellence Track Joint Forum, the STRIDE partners will outline the project’s goals and challenges, share insights into the modelling approaches, and present the derived design matrix for investigating future hybrid electric aircraft propulsion systems.
Research Group Leader, Institute of Jet Propulsion and Turbomachinery, Technische Universität Braunschweig
Lecturer Institute for Energy and Environment, Department of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde
Research Assistant, Institute of Jet Propulsion and Turbomachinery, Technische Universität Braunschweig
ViReST: Mapping Viral Replication Sites in the Respiratory Tract
Abstract
tba
Prof. Dr. Julia Rebecca
Research Group Leader, Laboratory of Transmission Immunology Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research
Lunch Break
Workshop Sessions
Workshop 3
The Miracle of EU Research Funding: Strengthening Partnerships with Horizon Europe Projects
Abstract
The EU Horizon Europe programme remains the most powerful catalyst for cross‑border research in Europe. This workshop will provide an insight into forthcoming calls, showcase the support structures at the University of Strathclyde and TU Braunschweig. It shares a best practice example, where EU Horizon Funding enabled a new collaboration which evolved and with RSE-Lower Saxony funding is able to scope out research ideas beyond the EU Horizon funded project (INDIGO). The workshop provides a networking space for researchers, research administrators, and innovation managers from both regions to seed further joint proposals and strengthen the collaboration.
Daniela Bolle-Joyce
Head of Strategic Research Funding, University of Strathclyde
Andreas Hebbelmann
Head of Research Services, Technische Universität Braunschweig
Katie Robinson
European Programmes Manager, University of Strathclyde
Dr. Jan Gäbler
EU Officer, Technische Universität Braunschweig
Dr. Catherine Jones
Strathclyde Chancellors Fellow, Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Strathclyde
Prof. Dr. Jens Friedrichs
Professor of Aircraft Propulsion, TU Braunschweig
Workshop 4
Industrial Decarbonization under Uncertainty: Supporting Corporate Decision-Making in the Transition to Green Steel
Abstract
Why is accounting for uncertainty so critical in strategic decision-making, and how can it be properly integrated? This interactive workshop uses the transformation to green steel to show how uncertainty, and neglecting it, affects corporate decisions and policymaking. Participants first develop causal loop diagrams that map uncertainties and their interdependencies in familiar, everyday situations. Building on this, the hosts turn to the green-steel case and use an optimisation model with different energy-price scenarios to show how the recommended strategy changes once uncertainty is taken into account. No prior knowledge of optimisation or steelmaking is required: participants from research, policy and industry take away a transferable approach to decision-making under uncertainty.
Prof. Dr. Thomas S. Spengler
Professor, Institute of Automotive Management and Industrial Production, Technische Universität Braunschweig
Prof. Dr. John Quigley
Professor, Department of Management Science, University of Strathclyde
Dr. Christian Scheller
Research Group Leader, Institute of Automotive Management and Industrial Production, Technische Universität Braunschweig
Elise Steward
PhD Student, Department of Management Science, University of Strathclyde
Workshop 5
Resilient Transport – Backcasting the Future of Road and Rail Transport in times of Crises
Abstract
Transport systems face increasing threats from extreme weather events, operational disruptions, and cyberattacks. This interactive workshop brings together experts from transport planning, traffic and freight modelling, human factors and data science to explore strategies for building resilient road and rail networks for both passenger and freight transport, including with interdependencies with energy and telecommunication systems. Workshop participants will be actively involved using the backcasting method to examine real-world scenarios, discuss operational measures and strategies to make transport more resilient. The aim of the workshop is to bring together interdisciplinary perspectives and to identify research questions for sparking future joint research activities.
Dr. Alexandra König
German Aerospace Center, Institute of Transportation Systems, Braunschweig
Stefanie Schöne
German Aerospace Center, Institute of Transportation Systems, Braunschweig
Dr. Alan Logan
Centre for Sustainable Road Freight and the Centre for Logistics and Sustainability in the Edinburgh Business School at Heriot-Watt University
Dr. Neil Ferguson
University of Strathclyde, Faculty of Engineering
Closing Addresses
Emeritus Vice-Principal (Internationalisation), University of Glasgow & Senior Academic Advisory, European Centre for Advanced Studies
Register now
Please register below for this year’s Joint Forum, taking place on Thursday, 19 November + Friday, 20 November 2026 at the Technische Universität Braunschweig.
Participation is free of charge. Registration is open until Sunday, 1 November 2026.
Why attend?
Network
Connect with academics, staff and students from renowned higher education institutions, politicians and experts from industry in both regions.
Collaborate
Explore avenues for interdisciplinary cooperation and initiate research partnerships.
Learn
Gain insights from experts, discover innovative projects, and expand your knowledge horizon.
Engage
Participate in discussions, exchange ideas, and be part of shaping the future of academia.
About
The Joint Forum is an annual, two-day networking event organised by the European Centre for Advanced Studies (ECAS) together with a partner higher education institution in Lower Saxony or Scotland. Acting as a cooperation hub, ECAS connects stakeholders from academia, policy, and innovation to foster sustained exchange between both regions.
Hosted alternately in Lower Saxony and Scotland, the Forum provides a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the development of new collaborative initiatives. In 2025, the Joint Forum took place at the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE) in the context of the partnership between the Lower Saxony Ministry of Science and Culture (MWK), the Volkswagen Foundation, and the RSE, alongside their joint Lower Saxony – Scotland Research and Innovation Scheme. The 2026 edition will be hosted at Technische Universität Braunschweig.
With over 100 participants each year, the Joint Forum supports both the strengthening of existing partnerships and the creation of new ones.
Venue
The Technische Universität Braunschweig is one of Germany’s leading technical universities and a member of the TU Alliance. Situated in the heart of Europe’s most research-intensive region, it pursues solutions to tomorrow’s challenges in interdisciplinary, cross-faculty research centers. Its activities are organized around four core research priorities: Mobility, Metrology, Engineering for Health, and the City of the Future.
TU Braunschweig benefits from an outstanding ecosystem that brings together universities, federal research centers, Helmholtz Institutes, Fraunhofer Institutes, Leibniz Association research institutions, museums, libraries, and even a research airport. This environment offers rich interdisciplinary research and networking opportunities for both researchers and students. Its internationally oriented degree programs are characterized by strong practical relevance through research projects, excellent networking, and active technology transfer.
