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The International Network University
With its institutional concept, called the “International Network University,” Freie Universität Berlin is pursuing a new, strategic model of university management. Our systemic approach is focused on the three main objectives of advancing innovative research networks, promoting outstanding young academics, and initiating new forms of international cooperation.
In order to achieve these goals, Freie Universität has developed ways to augment its administration. The new management model seeks to strike a balance between micro- and macro politics, collective and individual responsibility, historically grown and strategically designed cooperation, individual research interest and public demands for knowledge. Looking to facilitate dynamic, sustainable, topic-related steering, the university has reorganized key parts of its governance structures. The core of this reform includes the implementation of two new advisory boards, the Excellence Council and the International Council, as well as three strategic centers:
• The Center for Cluster Development (CCD) is responsible for identifying trends in various research areas and establishing suitable networks of expertise.
• Dahlem Research School (DRS) professionalizes training for young academics. DRS set out to encourage graduates to conduct advanced research at an early stage and to strategically assign top young scholars to relevant research areas.
• The Center for International Cooperation (CIC) focuses on the advancement of international research networks and graduate programs. It facilitates the formulation of a university-wide internationalization strategy and moderates the development of strategic partnerships.
Thus strengthening its networking character, Freie Universität is striving for the league of the world’s leading research universities.
