Network Meeting India 2012

On 23 - 24 March 2012, the first Research Alumni Meeting took place in New Delhi, Indien. In addition to providing a forum for research-related and regional exchange, this first meeting offered information on the new project and on the research locations of Heidelberg and Germany in general. The opening conference of the Research Alumni Network took place at the Goethe Institute Max Mueller Bhavan.

In addition to the professional and regional exchange a focus was set at the research location Heidelberg in the beginning of the event.

Prof. Dr. Bernhard Eitel, Rector of Heidelberg University, presented an overview of the current state of research at the university and at non-university research institutions in Heidelberg. Prof. Eitel explained the significance and success of the Excellence Initiative in Germany in general, and particularly in Heidelberg, and described long-term developments, international cooperation projects and the university's strategy of internationalisation.

In the afternoon a presentation and discussion of the aims and possibilities of the new network followed. Organised in small groups according to their area of specialisation, the Research Alumni elaborated suggestions and ideas for the future development of the network.

The conference ended with a dinner for the participants. Memories of Heidelberg, a variety of impressions and the wide range of topics provided opportunities for lively discussions at the finale of the conference.