German Science and Innovation—Midwest Research Exchange Tour

In early October, the American Friends of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AFAvH) joined colleagues from DAAD, DFG, DWIH, and Fraunhofer USA for a week-long Midwest Research Exchange Tour, engaging with universities and research partners across Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan to advance US–German collaboration in science, innovation, and higher education.

At each stop, The Ohio State University, Case Western Reserve University, Purdue University, and Michigan State University, the delegation met with research and innovation leaders to exchange ideas on shared priorities including talent mobility, applied research, and transatlantic partnerships.

Highlights from the tour included:

• The Ohio State University – Conversations with campus research leaders about strengthening collaboration with German institutions and expanding international engagement across disciplines.

• Case Western Reserve University – A dynamic visit highlighting innovation and entrepreneurship through tours of Sears think[box] and the Veale Institute for Entrepreneurship.

• Purdue University – Insightful discussions with faculty and administrators on advancing applied research and fostering university–industry partnerships.

• Michigan State University – A forward-looking dialogue on connecting state-level innovation efforts with Germany’s research and technology landscape.

Across all visits, the delegation underscored the enduring strength of the transatlantic research bridge and the shared belief that collaboration fuels discovery and mutual understanding.

Together with our partners, AFAvH is proud to continue building this network, linking researchers, innovators, and institutions across borders.

📸 Explore more photos and reflections from the tour on our LinkedIn Page.