International Science & Policy Symposium (ISPS 2026)

Collaborate to Innovate: Advancing Global Research Amid Geopolitical Challenges

As climate change, geopolitical tensions and rapid technological advances reshape our world, research and innovation are more vital – and politically sensitive – than ever. At the same time, universities face growing scrutiny: critiques of elitism, funding cuts, scepticism towards internationalisation, and increasing political pressure. Today’s grand challenges require not just national efforts, but deep, sustained international collaboration. Research-intensive universities are central to this mission. By fostering talent, generating knowledge, and seizing new opportunities, they help societies work through uncertainty, respond to complexity, and shape a more sustainable, prosperous, and resilient future. The International Science & Policy Symposium 2026 brought together international university leaders, researchers and policymakers to explore how research-intensive universities shape the future through research and innovation. Participants will share experiences, best practices and and identify new ways to strengthen international partnerships together.

At a glance

International Science & Policy Symposium (ISPS) 2026

Collaborate to Innovate: Advancing Global Research Amid Geopolitical Challenges

Date: 24–25 June 2026
Location: Herrenhausen Palace, Hannover, Germany
Participants: International university leaders, researchers, policymakers, and representatives of leading research-intensive universities and partner organisations

Objectives of the Symposium

Explore how research-intensive universities can strengthen international cooperation in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment
Exchange strategies for advancing research excellence, innovation, and societal impact through global partnerships
Discuss how universities can safeguard academic freedom, strengthen democratic resilience, and respond to growing security challenges
Examine the opportunities and ethical implications of artificial intelligence for research and higher education
Foster international networks and identify new opportunities for collaboration between universities, governments, funding organisations, and industry

Key Topics

From research to impact: Making knowledge matter. How can global partnerships accelerate the translation of research into innovation? What role can European research and mobility funding play in a changing global science system? Which collaborative infrastructures and frameworks, such as the UK’s spinout ecosystem and German industry’s commitment to research, best support knowledge transfer and innovation?
Free research for open societies? As disinformation and authoritarian pressure grow, how can research-intensive universities uphold democratic values? How can international academic cooperation support open societies? And how should Europe respond to safeguard academic freedom?
Research building a safer world: security, resilience and universities. How does an ever-growing focus on security and defence affect universities? How will it impact research and international academic cooperation?
Dear ChatGPT, when should I use you? AI and ethics in research. How is machine learning changing research? What ethical questions does this raise? How can AI become more reliable, explainable, and fair?

Keynote

“Meeting the challenge: Universities in Turbulent Times”
Sir Peter Mathieson, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, University of Edinburgh

As geopolitics, demographics and budgets become ever more challenging, how can digital transformation, internationalisation, and innovative financing models help universities respond? How will research-intensive, internationally oriented universities adapt to future financial realities, maintain academic excellence and fulfill social responsibilities?