Science fair in Boston: German talent conquers the USA!

Science fair in Boston: German talent conquers the USA!

At the end of August and beginning of September 2025, the largest science and career fair for Germany, #GAIN25, took place in Boston (USA). Over 600 participants, including universities, research institutions and scientific organizations, were represented. This important event aimed to provide young researchers with information about career opportunities in Germany. The participants also included institutions such as the University of Ulm and the Ulm University Medical Center, which took an active part in the discussions.

In 2025, GAIN was also aimed at non-German-speaking researchers in North America for the first time, which represents a significant expansion of the target group. Professor Carl Krill from Ulm University took part in a panel about international postdocs and reported on his positive experiences in Germany. The discussions discussed cultural differences between the USA and Germany, as well as current US policy under President Trump. A central topic was academic freedom in Germany, which is constitutionally protected there.

Strengthening transatlantic relations

Professor Katja Becker, President of the German Research Foundation (DFG), emphasized solidarity with US colleagues and the importance of transatlantic scientific relations during the event. Professor Thomas Wirth, Dean of the Medical Faculty, reported numerous conversations with young researchers who had a legitimate interest in returning to Germany. GAIN was founded in 2003 to support German scientists worldwide, especially in North America.

The GAIN annual conference included numerous panel discussions, workshops and lectures on the international scientific landscape and career opportunities in Germany. A highlight of the event was the “Talent Fair”, which offered participants the opportunity to find out about funding and work opportunities in Germany and to make valuable contacts.

About the German Academic International Network

The German Academic International Network (GAIN) was founded as a community initiative and brings together several organizations, including the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the German Academic Exchange Service and the German Research Foundation. GAIN now has almost 4,500 members and acts as a transatlantic discussion forum for German scientists. Its aim is to improve the flow of information between Germany and North America and to support the return of German scientists to attractive positions in Germany.

GAIN attaches great importance to promoting collaborations between researchers in Germany and North America and offers German scientists in North America the opportunity to maintain their connection to Germany. The initiative also supports the professional and personal reintegration of scientists who want to return to Germany and ensures that skills acquired abroad are used during reintegration in Germany. In addition, German scientists in North America serve as multipliers for Germany as a location for studies and science.

GAIN actively provides information about the latest trends and developments in German higher education and research and strengthens awareness of the appreciation of international experiences by German institutions. Further information about GAIN and the event can be found on the University of Ulm and the International cooperation available.

The 2025 conference took place from August 29th to 31st in Boston and was largely organized by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the German Research Foundation (DFG). Over 80 German research institutions and universities presented career opportunities and vacancies at the “Talent Fair” in order to give participants a comprehensive perspective on opportunities in Germany.