RAN Newsletter 02/2024 “Heidelberg offers an unparalleled platform for intellectual growth and cross-cultural exchange”

You came to Heidelberg together for a research stay. How did it come about?

Pamela Karimi (PK): We started planning on our sabbaticals sometime during the spring and summer of 2022. We looked at a number of different places, but soon winnowed down the list to a small handful of institutions.

Robert Fisher (RF): Yes, we chose Heidelberg as one of the few universities worldwide that excelled both in the humanities as well as the sciences in areas related to both of our respective disciplines.

At which institute/institution do you work? And what are your goals for your time in Heidelberg?

PK: As a researcher at the Center for Apocalyptic and Post-Apocalyptic Studies, University of Heidelberg, I am working on a book project that explores the innovative architectural solutions developed in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) in response to desert environments. Despite the clever and environmentally friendly practices evolved over centuries, these sustainable solutions were often dismissed by colonial powers and eroded by the increasing reliance on fossil fuels and modern technologies in the 20th century. During the Oil Crisis and the rise of environmental movements, MENA's desert-friendly architecture gained critical importance, inspiring proposals for self-sustained disaster shelters and lunar settlements. The book contrasts the well-funded projects of US experts with the contributions of marginalized figures like Iranian-American architect Nader Khalili, who studied Iran's self-sustaining adobe architecture and its potential applications. Through diverse case studies, this project challenges the notion that post-apocalyptic design solutions are solely the domain of white/Euro-American expertise, highlighting the importance of MENA's architectural heritage and the work of underrepresented innovators in the face of global challenges and apocalyptic scenarios.
RF: I am working up at the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies (HITS), where I am being hosted by Prof. Dr Friedrich Röpke, supported by a DAAD fellowship. Prof. Röpke has led a hugely successful, world-leading theoretical astrophysics research group investigating the stellar explosions and stellar mergers for many years. This sabbatical has provided me with the opportunity to closely interact with his students and postdoctoral scholars and find ground for joint research projects.

Why did you decide in favor of Heidelberg University?

PK: While there are numerous sabbatical opportunities available in the US, I find myself drawn to the prospect of immersing myself in a novel and challenging environment. The decision to step outside the familiar confines of the US university system has proven to be an incredibly rewarding experience, both personally and professionally. My sabbatical at the University of Heidelberg has provided me with invaluable insights into the inner workings of the German academic system. This exposure has allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of the unique perspectives and priorities that shape the European community's approach to tackling the critical environmental challenges of the 21st century. The opportunity to engage with scholars from diverse backgrounds and disciplines has greatly enriched my understanding of these complex issues and has challenged me to think beyond the boundaries of my own academic background. Had I chosen to remain within the comfort zone of the US academic system, I would have missed out on this transformative experience. The University of Heidelberg has provided an unparalleled platform for intellectual growth and cross-cultural exchange, enabling me to expand my horizons and develop new collaborations with colleagues from around the world. 

What have you learned so far in Heidelberg? Which experiences have been particularly valuable?

PK: Living in a historic European city that remained unscathed during the tumultuous years of World War II has been an extraordinary privilege for me as an architectural historian. This immersive experience has provided me with a profound understanding of how these ancient cities operate and how they prioritize human values in their urban fabric. The stark contrast between these pedestrian-friendly, human-centric cities and the more modern, automobile-centric urban landscapes has been a revelation, highlighting the importance of designing cities that cater to the needs and well-being of their inhabitants. During my time here, I have had the privilege of exploring the rich historical sites that surround the city. Each visit has been an enlightening journey, allowing me to delve deep into the annals of German history and gain a more nuanced appreciation for the country's cultural heritage. From the awe-inspiring Schwetzingen Palace and Garden to the significant Weissenhof Estate in Stuttgart, every landmark has a story to tell, offering a glimpse into the lives and aspirations of previous visionaries and architects.

RF: I have to say my lasting memories will be of a personal nature. I recently became a EU citizen by virtue of my Italian ancestry through my mother, who was born in Italy and immigrated to the US following WW II. I also have a very distant Germany background through my father, whose ancestors immigrated to the US in the 1740s. As someone who came of age during the end of the Cold War, I’ve truly appreciated the opportunity to live in a vibrant, unified Germany as an EU citizen. 

What do you like best about being in Heidelberg? What suggestions would you have for improvements – regarding the organization of your stay or the University in general?

PK: Living in Heidelberg has been an absolute delight, and I find myself constantly inspired by the vibrant atmosphere that permeates every corner of this enchanting city. As an architectural historian, having access to the picturesque old town is a dream come true. But Heidelberg is not just a city that rests on its historical glories. What I find most remarkable about Heidelberg is how seamlessly it blends its rich history with a forward-looking, cosmopolitan outlook. It is a city that pulsates with life, thanks in no small part to the dynamic and diverse student population. The city's commitment to the arts and culture is equally impressive. I am particularly grateful for the exceptional movie theaters that offer a diverse array of films from around the world.

RF: I really love nearly everything about living in Heidelberg. I particularly enjoy the ability to walk from our apartment in the Altstadt both to work and to the multitude of academic and cultural events on offer from the University and the city.

What is your view of the German scientific system in comparison to that of your home country or to that of other countries where you may have conducted research?

RF: One thing I particularly like about the German scientific system is its generous investment in the careers of junior researchers. Here in Germany, promising young investigators can rise to become junior group leaders shortly after earning their Ph.D. themselves. I think this is a very wise investment of resources, since it allows the most creative junior scientists to initiate vibrant independent research programs even before becoming professors. It also gives universities a very clear perspective on how faculty candidates are likely to fare in their vital roles as research mentors and supervisors. In the US, postdoctoral scholars are often closely connected to research mentors, and only rarely have independent fellowships. As a result, in the US it can be quite challenging to gauge how well junior faculty hires will fare as independent scholars and research mentors.

In your opinion, what is the importance of international exchange in academia?

PK: In today's highly interconnected and rapidly evolving global landscape, forging strong ties with the international research community has become a paramount necessity. As scholars, we must recognize that the challenges we face transcend national boundaries and demand collaborative efforts on a global scale. It is through the exchange of ideas, expertise, and resources that we can hope to make significant strides in our respective fields and contribute to the betterment of society as a whole. In this context, Europe, and Germany in particular, stands out as a shining example of a region that has successfully positioned itself as a central hub for global scholarly exchange. 

Germany's central location within Europe makes it an ideal gateway for scholars looking to engage with the wider European research community. But Germany's appeal as a global research hub extends beyond its geographical advantages. The country's strong tradition of academic freedom, coupled with its generous funding opportunities and supportive research infrastructure, creates an environment that nurtures groundbreaking ideas and encourages bold, interdisciplinary thinking. 

RF: International exchange is absolutely vital for science. We all share the same biology, the same planet, the same skies. No single nation has a monopoly on scientific talent. Exchanges lead to cross-pollination of creative ideas; it’s precisely at these intersections where the most exciting new developments arise.

Would you recommend a research visit to Heidelberg University to your students or to colleagues in your scientific network?

Both: Absolutely!

What is your opinion of the opportunities made available through the Research Alumni Network? Have you taken advantage of any of these opportunities yet?

RF: We just recently signed up for the Research Alumni Network, but are both very excited about it. We are looking forward to connecting with scholars across a wide range of disciplines during our remaining time in Heidelberg, and also to continue to remain connected when we return back to the states.