Strong Defence of the Freedom of Research

DFG annual meeting 2026 concludes in Bonn

Panoramablick über Bonn

© Adobe Stock

Protecting and strengthening the freedom and independence of research in the face of increasing attacks, including in Germany, was the central theme of the three-day meeting. The DFG also voiced sharp criticism of the AfD’s research policy.

DFG to Fund Five New Research Units

Approximately €27 million for the first funding period

DFG-Förderprogramm: Forschungsgruppen

The new Research Units cover topics ranging from mechanisms of gene expression to new computational methods for the humanities. In addition to establishing these five new groups, the decision was made to extend the funding of another five Research Units for an additional period.

Two New Vice Presidents for the DFG

Lutz Mädler and Christian Walter elected to DFG Executive Committee

Gruppenbild des DFG-Präsidiums

Mitglieder des DFG-Präsidiums

© DFG / Heiko Specht

The DFG General Assembly elected process engineer Professor Dr. Lutz Mädler of the University of Bremen and international law specialist Professor Dr. Christian Walter of LMU Munich to serve on the DFG Executive Committee for a term of four years each. They will take office on 1 January 2027. 

Eight New Members of the DFG Senate

Four Senate Members Re-Elected

© DFG

The DFG General Assembly elected eight new members to the Senate. The Senate has a total of 39 members; the latter are also the Scientific Members of the Joint Committee. The new members’ term of office will begin on 1 January 2027. 

DFG - German Research Foundation