News

Third-party funding is essential for financing an independent academic research landscape in Germany. The largest research funding agency in the country is the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG). "It is important that it exists – the DFG represents a well-functioning and independently organized approach to distributing research funds," explains Prof. Dr. Torsten Zesch. The CATALPA Research Professor in Computational Linguistics is the new DFG Liaison Officer at FernUniversität. He has taken over the position from the Vice-President for Research and Internationalization, Prof. Dr. Angela Dorrough – for the next three years. "I was very happy to make myself available for this role."

All universities that are members of the DFG appoint a liaison officer from among their own researchers. Zesch’s responsibilities include providing information on funding opportunities, assisting researchers – especially those in the early stages of their careers – with grant applications, and supporting them with any questions or concerns they may have. In addition, as a DFG Liaison Officer, he serves as an advisory member of the University Committee for Research and Early Stage Scholars.

Interface between the DFG and FernUni

Collaboration with the DFG usually goes smoothly – and, like all third-party funding processes, is closely monitored and supported by the FernUniversität’s Research and Graduate Services. Should any uncertainties regarding the DFG arise, however, researchers can contact Torsten Zesch confidentially. "I’m happy to advise all my colleagues – not just when a conflict arises." Ideally, this prevents ongoing processes from stalling in the first place. "My virtual door is always open."

In his new role, the professor aims to advance the FernUniversität as a whole. The university has set the systematic expansion of its research strength as a clear goal. It is now even more important than before to support researchers in implementing their projects with the help of the DFG. "We still have a lot of potential," Torsten Zesch is certain. He looks forward to accompanying the FernUniversität on its journey.