08. June 2026

ZEF part of two new DFG-funded Research Training Groups (RTGs) at the University of Bonn ZEF part of two new DFG-funded Research Training Groups (RTGs) at the University of Bonn

Research on Urban Future - managing transformations for a better health in blue cities

What is the best way to shape the future of waterfront cities in the Global South in the face of challenges like climate change? How are conflicts overcome in various different cultures? These key questions are now to be explored by two new Research Training Groups (RTGs) at the University of Bonn. Alongside the University Hospital Bonn as a partner, the proposal was submitted together with the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences (H-BRS). The German Research Foundation (DFG) is providing with millions of euros in funding to train doctoral students. Across Germany, the DFG will be supporting 10 new RTGs in all from fall 2026 onward. 

ZEF part of two new DFG-funded Research Training Groups (RTGs) at the University of Bonn
ZEF part of two new DFG-funded Research Training Groups (RTGs) at the University of Bonn © Uni Bonn / HRBS
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ZEF is involved with the following Principal Investigators (PIs) working on the respective research areas:

  • Jun.-Prof. Wolfram Barfuss with research on Human-environment modelling to identify critical leverage points for sustainability transitions; Collective learning.

  • Prof. Dr. Lisa Biber-Freudenberger with research on Landscape Ecology; land use governance and Science Policy Interfaces

  • Prof. Dr. Christian Borgemeister with research on Biological control and integrated pest management in the tropics for improved food security; Vector control of infectious diseases as part of a One Health approach.

  • Prof. Dr. Jan Börner with research on Land Use Change; Agricultural and Environmental Economics ; Bioeconomy; Nature Conservation.

  • Prof. Dr. Ina Danquah with research on Climate Change, Nutrition and Health; Planetary Health. 

See news on Bonn University's website here.

The German Research Foundation (DFG) will be providing €5 million in funding from fall 2026 onward to this research alliance, whose work will be centered around training doctoral students.

Prof. Dr. Lisa Biber-Freudenberger, lfreuden@uni-bonn.de