Functions and consequences of artificial intelligence
in the science and higher education organization
Innovation analysis and transfer development
PROJECT MANAGEMENT
Working in collaboration
Interaction of program, communication, and people
Research Environment with Support and Coordination Structures
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Strong emphasis on exchange, meeting points, and networking
Structured doctoral program with intensive supervision
Large-scale, multi-year collaborative research projects are now a fundamental form of scientific work (see Besio 2009; Torka 2009 for detailed discussion). Interdisciplinary and cross-site programs, in particular, require considerable organizational effort: diverse experts come together, ideas are developed into fully-fledged proposals, and extensive review and approval procedures follow. Moreover, suitable personnel must be recruited for new positions and provided with further qualifications.
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Research-Led Task Allocation
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With the establishment of the research group, appropriate support and coordination structures were put in place to enable productive collaboration among the consortium partners. Using a research-led task allocation model developed specifically for KIWIT, responsibilities and focus areas for professors and team members are clearly defined. This approach considers individual work interests and areas of expertise, as well as the allocation of doctoral supervision. Student and research assistants support doctoral candidates in implementing their research projects.
The group’s communication framework includes several structured formats. Monthly briefings provide updates on progress and planning. Semiannual advisory board meetings allow for broader exchange. Within the doctoral cohort, issues related to the PhD process are discussed. A rotating annual Summer School takes place across the three sites, supplemented by workshops for deepening disciplinary knowledge. Within subprojects, regular jours fixes maintain continuous dialogue between doctoral candidates and supervisors.
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Framework of Expert Organization
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A significant portion of work focuses on dissemination, including public engagement, knowledge transfer in higher education management, and adjacent knowledge-intensive fields. For publications, the group leverages the participating universities’ Open Science initiatives, facilitating rapid and easy access to research outputs.
As with any scientific endeavor, the research is conducted according to the principles of an expert organization. This means that work is accompanied by highly individualized time management, accommodating diverse working styles and methods. The structured organizational framework provides orientation and security for all participants, while ensuring that results are delivered within planned timeframes.
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Last updated: 28 July 2025
Various communication formats facilitate exchange and networking, enabling regular professional discussions and in-depth engagement. Interdisciplinarity fosters a stimulating environment—but also requires a certain discipline to remain focused on individual work priorities.
Doctoral projects within interdisciplinary consortia are embedded in a shared research framework. Nonetheless, each doctoral project maintains its own distinct character. For the doctoral candidates, it is crucial to contribute their individual approach in a way that aligns with the overall program.
Organizational Structure of the Research Group (click to enlarge, as of July 2025).
Manuela Eiben at the University of Oldenburg serves as the project assistant for the research group. She is the primary contact for all matters related to scheduling, communication, and inquiries.