By Aylin Krieger
14 Sep 2026
Annual Reception for New Researchers
The reception is a regular fixture in the Welcome Center’s annual program. It is aimed at researchers who have recently moved to Bremen or Bremerhaven, as well as their families and accompanying partners. The focus is on meeting others, exchanging ideas, and making initial connections beyond one’s own institution.
Frauke Meyer, Chancellor of the University of Bremen, welcomed the participants at the GW2 café. A string trio from the University Orchestra then provided a musical interlude before the buffet opened and the evening transitioned into conversation and networking.
“International and German researchers enrich both the University of Bremen and Bremen as a research hub. Through the U Bremen Research Alliance Welcome Center, we provide structures that make it easier to settle in, create opportunities for networking, and send a clear message: Researchers and their families are welcome in Bremen,” said Frauke Meyer.
Making People Feel Welcome Every Day
What was on display at the reception is part of the Welcome Center’s everyday work. As the central service point of the U Bremen Research Alliance, it supports newly arriving researchers from the start of their doctoral studies, as well as employees, guests, and their families, with practical and non-academic matters related to their stay in Bremen and Bremerhaven.
These include topics such as visas and residence permits, finding housing, childcare, German language courses, dual-career support, and everyday practical questions. Consultations are available both in person and online. The Welcome Center provides guidance, connects researchers with the right contacts, and helps them navigate the wide range of services available.
“The first few weeks often come with a lot of questions — from ‘Where can I get …?’ to ‘Who can help me with this?’ Not everything is about research, but many of these things are essential to settling in successfully. And the best part is that no one has to figure it all out on their own. Bremen has contacts, networks, and plenty of support to help make the transition a successful one,” said Julia Holz and Janna Wilbers, coordinators at the U Bremen Research Alliance Welcome Center.
Connecting Across Institutions
The reception provided an informal setting for exactly this kind of exchange. Researchers from different countries, institutions, disciplines, and career stages had the opportunity to meet and talk with one another. For many participants, it was their first opportunity to become familiar with Bremen’s broader research landscape beyond their own institute or research group.
The SeniorCitizens also took part in the event. This volunteer team helps international students, visiting researchers, and their families settle into life in Bremen. The group is supported by the University of Bremen’s International Office, kompass, and Welcome Center, as well as by the Academy for Continuing Education.
Settling In as Part of a Welcoming Research Culture
Good research does not begin only at a desk, in a laboratory, or within a research group. Anyone who is new to Bremen or Bremerhaven needs guidance, reliable points of contact, and opportunities to make initial connections. The annual reception provides a personal introduction designed to do exactly that.
In this way, the Welcome Center makes an important contribution to the appeal of Bremen and Bremerhaven as research locations. After all, a strong research hub depends on researchers who are happy to come, feel at home when they arrive, and are able to get their work off to a successful start.
