RSE partnership with Lower Saxony recognised in UK–Germany treaty

The Royal Society of Edinburgh is proud that its partnership with the Ministry of Science and Culture of Lower Saxony and the Volkswagen Foundation has been highlighted as part of the landmark Treaty on Friendship and Bilateral Cooperation, signed between the UK and Germany on 17 July 2025. The Lower Saxony–Scotland Research and Innovation Scheme, launched earlier this year following a Memorandum of Understanding signed in February 2025, was noted in the Treaty as one of the key initiatives strengthening ties between the two countries.

The scheme funds joint research projects across critical areas—including energy, life sciences, educational sciences, mobility transformation, and security policy—bringing together researchers from Scotland and Lower Saxony. These collaborations are already generating fresh ideas and practical solutions to shared challenges. The first cohort of awardees was announced on 23 July 2025.

Recognition in the bilateral treaty underlines the significance of regional and academic partnerships in shaping international cooperation. The inclusion of the RSE’s work alongside other initiatives demonstrates how research collaboration contributes to wider goals of security, prosperity, and cultural exchange across Europe.

The second round of the Lower Saxony–Scotland Research and Innovation Scheme will open for applications on 4 September 2025 and will run until noon on 22 October 2025 as part of the RSE’s autumn 2025 Research Awards Programme.