THI launches “Bavarian Center for Applied Research and Technology with Latin America” (AWARE)

International research networks have become essential to develop key technologies of tomorrow and solutions for global challenges. The highly application and technology-oriented AWARE Center builds a bridge to Brazil, Argentina, Colombia and also further countries in Latin America. Its main goal is to strengthen the transfer of knowledge and technology between science, industry and politics as well as opening up international perspectives for young scientists and supporting the development of international research structures. Core research topics are Artificial Intelligence, Automotive, Industry 4.0, Aviation, Retail, Entrepreneurship and Sustainability. In addition to supporting the development of networks between universities and business partners in Bavaria and Latin America, the Center also aims to strengthen the international networking of Bavarian universities in order to concentrate knowledge and establish thematic networks in the long term.

During the ceremony, Bavarian Minister of State for Science and Art, Bernd Sibler, pointed out the significance of the new AWARE Center for Bavaria as a knowledge site: “The internationalization of our universities and the global cooperation with other universities, research facilities and companies is crucial for the top-level research in Bavaria. With the AWARE Center THI shows how such concepts can be developed and the high added value it brings.”

Professor Dr. Walter Schober, President of Technische Hochschule Ingolstadt, emphasized the added value of the AWARE Center for the institutions involved: “What started as a strategic partnership with Brazil funded by German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) was gradually developed via exchange of professors and students and through cooperation in the field of research. We are glad to be able to open our network for further partners in Bavaria in a next step now.”

In the following panel discussion German and Brazilian representatives from science, industry and politics addressed the question of chances and challenges of applied research in Latin America. Joint German-Brazilian research and exchange projects in the fields of vehicle safety, automated driving, aviation and renewable energies were also presented at the opening ceremony.

The newly created AWARE Center emerged from THI’s strategic network partnership of the same name, AWARE, with Brazil, through which around 480 people have so far been supported with guest lectures and professorships, research stays and internships, summer schools and other network events.

Source: THI