Mission statement
The Hanse Wissenschaftskolleg (HWK), a place of understanding
The HWK is an independent, international and interdisciplinary research institute. Unlike other institutes, the HWK blends theoretical work with experimental research in its four areas of study, marine and climate research, neuro and cognitive sciences, social sciences and energy research.
Respected representatives of the various scientific cultures meet at the HWK in an intellectually diverse setting with an atmosphere of openness and mutual appreciation. The special freedom of thought, in conjunction with aesthetic stimulation, enables a complete unfolding of the scientific creativity of these great minds. The work of the HWK and its significance as a critical link within the regional scientific landscape greatly strengthen the performance in the existing areas of research in the northwest.
Aims
1. A place for networking
The general objective of the HWK is to strengthen the northwest as a scientific center. To this end, the HWK promotes a collaboration between the regional research institutes and provides a network between the various scientific cultures, politics and the economy.
2. A place for fostering science
The HWK has the specific task of attracting internationally recognized scientists who will deal with a specific topic over a long time period, exchange ideas with on another in the process and, above all, collaborate with the scientific institutes in the region. In doing so, the HWK fosters young scientists in particular and provides them with a special opportunity for transdisciplinary dialog.
3. A place of understanding
Four thematic areas of study and interdisciplinary projects comprise the HWK’s exceptional profile:
- Marine and climate research
- Neuro and cognitive sciences
- Social sciences
- Energy research
An exchange between the selected fellows in each of these fields, the regional research institutes and the public is achieved through workshops and conferences as well as fellow lectures, public lectures and podium discussions. In addition to work on their own research projects, the fellows’ stays also serve the intense integration of the overarching themes of the HWK. Three of these themes, which stand paradigmatically for the HWK, are Cultural Intelligence from the area of neuroscience, The Memory of the Oceans from the field of marine and climate research, and Trust after All?! from the field of social sciences. With its forms of interdisciplinary research, the HWK has taken up a prominent place as an interface and intersection for the transfer of knowledge.
4. A place of intellectual independence
As an institution of intellectual independence, the HWK stands for an intercultural climate of acceptance, tolerance and openness. This self-image of the HWK is to be expressed not least through its dedication to art and culture. Thus, the HWK’s premises will house readings and temporary exhibits as well as other forms of advanced art and music. For artists in residence, the HWK will provide space for inspiration and contemplation. The aim in doing this is also to surmount the conventional boundaries between science and art in order to further promote scientific creativity with unusual forms of aesthetic experience.
5. Our commitment: an Institute for Advanced Study
Qualification, personal and social competence, professionalism in scientific and administrative management as well as readiness to take on responsibility distinguish the HWK’s leadership and staff. The promotion of open dialog is supported by the readiness to respect the qualifications and opinions of others. Regular internal and external evaluations foster the continuous further development of the institute, the optimization of the work procedure and thus the quality protection of an Institute for Advanced Study.