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News 04 July 2023

status 2022 – Annual report of the Volkswagen Foundation

In 2022, the Volkswagen Foundation approved EUR 331,9 million for scientific projects. Figures, data and facts from our 2022 annual report.

several wooden cubes with symbols, including a light bulb and a doctor's hat, a cube with the inscription "Fördermittel" (funding)
Interview 03 July 2023

Incentive bonus of 10,000 euros for reviewers

Until June 30, 2024, researchers who participate in peer reviews for the Volkswagen Foundation can receive 10,000 euros in additional funding. Henrike Hartmann and Selahattin Danisman explain the unusual experiment.

A Person showing a picture of a burning house on the smartphone
News 20 June 2023

Support for Ukraine: Preparing for peacetime

Following its initial emergency assistance for Ukrainian researchers who have sought refuge in Germany, the Volkswagen Foundation is now offering support to those who remained in their home country – or want to return there – with two new projects.

Portrait of a man in front of a picture
Interview 01 June 2023

Does Alzheimer's research need to change course?

There is still no cure in sight for Alzheimer's disease. According to Christian Behl, this is partly because research has been following a single lead for the past 30 years – and ignoring others in the process. The biochemist explained his criticism of Alzheimer's research in a conversation with Catherine Newmark that took place in Hanover on 9 June 2023.

Podium mit several people
News 04 April 2023

African scientists create "Knowledge for Tomorrow"

The Volkswagen Foundation launched its research commitment in Africa 20 years ago. Now, the Foundation is inviting its fellows to Naivasha, Kenya, for a future-oriented dialogue.

Several persons in discussion
News 29 March 2023

Supporting Science in Sub-Saharan Africa: On the satisfaction derived from developing solutions

Not only crises caused by political upheavals or famines continue to wreak havoc on societies and communities on the African continent. Gilbert Fokou, a social anthropologist from Cameroon, sees himself as a bridging interface between the people and decision-makers in politics. He is driven by a strong determination to help the very poor. 

Stories

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.

Mehrere Personen sitzen zusammen, eine Frau erzählt etwas, ein Mann tippt dabei an einem Laptop. Im Hintergrund sind Bananenpflanzen und ein Dschungel-Wald zu sehen.
Story 27 May 2026

A Pharmacy From the Rainforest: Remedies for the Mind

Fabien Schultz is searching for natural materials that can be used to treat mental health conditions. To this end, he is working with indigenous communities in Uganda and Tanzania – and with monkeys.

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