The partnership between the University of Leeds and Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) emerged around strong and impactful research collaboration in climate and atmospheric science.
One long-standing collaboration between Leeds and KIT features a cloud simulation chamber used in climate change research, commercialised as the Portable Ice Nucleation Experiment Instrument (PINE) chamber, with ten instruments sold to organisations around the world. This has allowed international data to be collected which will help to test global models to monitor climate change.
Another successful research collaboration focused on a series of weather forecasting projects – aiding vulnerable communities in the Global South with new forecasting and warning systems – and supported the exchange of PhD students and post-doctoral researchers between institutions. This collaboration was key to the University of Leeds being awarded the prestigious Queen’s Anniversary Prize in 2021 for research into climate and extreme weather, benefiting vulnerable communities in the Global South.
Today, excellent science is no longer conceivable without transnational cooperation. International commitment is therefore an integral part of KIT's self-image and characterises its strategic orientation. The strategic partnership agreement with the University of Leeds is an important part of the internationalisation strategy of KIT.
The partnership has been strengthened by a strategic partnership agreement, signed by Leeds and KIT in April 2024. This agreement commits to extending collaboration in several newer areas, including transport studies, polymer chemistry, robotics, advanced materials, weather, climate and data analytics, as well as encouraging exchanges for faculty and students.
Our strategic partnership agreement with KIT will allow us to continue our extensive joint activities and foster new partnerships that will help with some of the world’s most pressing challenges.