On February 5, the UniSysCat research consortium presented its renewal proposal to the German Research Foundation (DFG) in Bonn, as part of the competitive selection process for continued funding under Germany’s Excellence Strategy. The evaluation marks a critical step in securing support for UniSysCat’s ambitious research agenda from 2026 to 2032.
The Excellence Strategy, a long-term initiative to strengthen Germany as a global research hub, funds Clusters of Excellence to advance cutting-edge scientific inquiry and innovation. As the current funding period concludes at the end of 2025, the competition for the next round of funding has intensified. Following the submission of proposals in August 2024, the review process entered its decisive on-site evaluation phase in late 2024. UniSysCat was among the selected clusters invited for assessment, with a 15-member delegation travelling to Bonn to present and defend its renewal proposal before an international panel of experts.
The delegation - comprising spokespersons, group leaders, researchers from nine partner institutions, a doctoral student from the EC2/BIG-NSE graduate program, and an alumna who successfully launched a startup - highlighted UniSysCat’s achievements and future vision. The presentation covered both the scientific projects and the structural advancements envisioned for the next funding phase, including: Expanding research into the interactions within catalytic networks, bridging chemical and biological catalysis. Strengthening green chemistry initiatives to support sustainable innovation. Enhancing the doctoral training program to develop the next generation of interdisciplinary researchers, and accelerating technology transfer and industry collaboration in the Berlin region. This comprehensive approach reflects UniSysCat’s mission: to revolutionise catalysis research and shape the future of chemistry through sustainable and interdisciplinary solutions.
Beyond its scientific ambitions, the renewal process has been a unifying experience for UniSysCat. The assessment phase fostered a strong sense of collaboration and commitment among researchers, administrative team, and students. The delegation’s presentation was a testament to the dedication and teamwork that underpin UniSysCat’s excellence.
As part of the Excellence Strategy, up to 70 Clusters of Excellence will receive funding from 2026 to 2032, with an annual budget of €539 million. The Excellence Commission, consisting of leading scientists and policymakers, will announce the funding decisions on May 22, 2025.
UniSysCat remains committed to its vision: advancing fundamental understanding of catalytic systems and translating discoveries into real-world applications for a sustainable future. We extend our gratitude to all those who have supported this endeavour and look forward to the next steps in our journey.