For two days the participants discussed the current scientific research of both institutions. It ranges from innovative architectures of nanosystems and their ultrafast applications in life sciences to modern aspects of photochemistry and processes on the attosecond timescale.

The meeting served the purpose of scientific exchange and included lab visits. It also offered an opportunity to deepen talks started in May this year about opportunities for cooperation. “Berlin and Poznan both have a special potential in nanotechnology research and numerous synergistic opportunities. These must now be developed progressively,” emphasized the physical chemist and president of Adam Mickiewicz University, Prof. Bronisław Marcini.

In a first phase, both sides want to intensify the exchange of students and scientists. For the organizers of the workshop, Prof. Eckart Rühl (physical chemistry) and Prof. Michael Giersig (physics), their matching research interests are the foundation for long-term and intensive cooperation. “Based on the workshop, we can already foresee joint projects.” Both sides place particular emphasis on cross-border support for young scientists. In May 2010 a first joint workshop was held for doctoral students in nanoscience.

The activities are part of an initiative of Freie Universität that is supported by the Center for International Cooperation of Freie Universität and aimed at intensifying cooperation with selected partners in Poland. Freie Universität is already working with the universities in Warsaw, Krakow, and Wroclaw.