Newsroom

Bucht in Alexandria: Das Wasser steht nah an Hochhäusern
Story 05 February 2025

Sinking Cities: Learning from Cultural Heritage

Coastal cities around the world are at risk of sinking as a result of rising sea levels in the wake of global warming. Urban researcher Hilke Marit Berger asks herself how this can be dealt with, not just technically, but above all socially and emotionally – and searches the past for answers for the future.

Illustration mit diskutierenden Menschen, im Vordergrund ein klassizistischer Schlossbau
Funding Offer 28 January 2025

Theme Week "The (De)tabooing of Science and Research"

How do taboos emerge in science? What exactly is considered taboo in different fields? And how can these taboos be dismantled? These are some of the questions that will be addressed during the theme week from September 17–19, 2025 in Hannover. Apply now for a scientific symposium, deadline: February 11, 2025.

Das Bild zeigt weiße Linien vor rotem Hintergrund
Event Report 22 January 2025

International Science & Policy Symposium (ISPS)

"Navigating Global Responsibility - How Research-Intensive Universities Strengthen Societies" was the focus of the International Science & Policy Symposium in Hanover, Germany, from January 22-23, 2025. Leading academics, policymakers, and international experts gathered to address some of the most pressing global challenges.

Laptop mit geöffnetem Bildschirm der das Förderportal der VolkswagenStiftung zeigt
News 20 January 2025

Our new funding platform

Our new user-optimised funding platform is now available! You can use it to submit applications and access all important information and documents related to our funding initiatives.

Eine Frau sitzt mit einer blauen Decke vor einer weißen Wand
In Brief 07 January 2025

Microbiologist with a passion for diversity

In her research, she explores the importance of diversity in microbial communities. As a mentor, Sarahi Garcia encourages early career researchers to embrace diversity in the academic world. 

Würfel mit verschiedenen Symbolen, darunter Glühbirne und Figur mit Doktorhut, ein Würfel mit der Aufschrift "Fördermittel"
News 02 January 2025

Another 10,000 euros for reviewers

Second round for a special experiment: Anyone who reviews on behalf of the Volkswagen Foundation until December 31, 2025 will be entered into a draw and may win €10,000 in funding.

Stories

Foto einer einzelnen Manganknolle
Story 15 July 2026

Manganese Nodules and Microorganisms: Life Fuelled by Radioactivity?

Radioactivity is generally considered harmful to life. Yet in manganese nodules in the deep sea, microorganisms might benefit from it. Or even live off it? This is the intriguing hypothesis that geoscientist Walter Geibert hopes to prove.

Satellitenansicht der Innertropischen Konvergenzzone
Story 09 June 2026

Climate Research Using Old Ship’s Logs: the Wind Leaves no Trace on the Sea

Did a volcanic eruption in 1783 shift the tropical rain belt? Old ship’s logs could provide the answer – and also shed light on the future climate for millions of people living around the equator.

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