Published on 14 June 2023
Team Science from the city of Magdeburg wanted to organise a network meeting that would promote the identification of common topics for cooperation between the city administration and the scientific institutions. The idea of using a ‘BarCamp’ format meant that the participants chose the topics themselves, and then self-organised into discussion groups around those areas of common interest. By using this dynamic approach it meant that participants were able to get to know each other better based on their common interests, and could network and exchange perspectives.
The BarCamp event took place in May 2023 at the Old Town Hall in Magdeburg. Around 70 people from the university, the university of applied sciences, research institutions and the city administration took part. The atmosphere and energy were very good and working groups quickly formed on a range of topics, for example, “Internationalization”, “Smart City” and “Agile Administration”.
Team Science is keen to develop the concept, but perhaps with a slightly different focus next time. However, the overarching aim remains to continue to promote and deepen collaboration between the scientific community in Magdeburg and the city administration.