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Studierende sitzt am Arbeitsplatz und schaut auf den Laptop. © Aliona Kardash​/​TU Dortmund
CET Kicks Off the Next Round with Catalyst GER

"Focus on the key aspects of the project idea"

Bild einer Frau © TU Dortmund
How can research in the humanities, social sciences, and education have a societal impact? The Catalyst GER transfer program supports researchers in further developing their ideas and exploring new avenues for societal impact—and is now entering its next phase. In this interview, Dr. Jennifer Eckhardt, a research associate in the Department of Social Sciences and acting coordinator of the research area “Innovation and Education in the Digital Society” at the Dortmund Social Research Center, shares her experiences with the program.

Ms. Eckhardt, could you briefly introduce your Transfer project?

The project focuses on participatory social reporting to better align local social policy measures with the actual needs in social communities. The goal is to make local social reporting simpler and more forward-looking. Currently, the process is often time-consuming and resource-intensive. The goal is for the stakeholders involved to collaborate more closely and for the urban community to be actively engaged in the process.

And did you participate in Catalyst GER to refine your idea?

Exactly. Catalyst GER helped me focus on the essential aspects of the project idea and articulate its core value more clearly. Particularly valuable was the realization that the core of the project lies not in a technical solution, but in the design of social processes. This allowed me to shift the focus specifically from technical issues to the actual concept behind the project’s impact.

What was your experience with the Catalyst GER program?

The program is very well structured while also offering plenty of freedom to further develop your own project idea. The continuous connection to the program’s core was particularly helpful, ensuring that guidance was always available despite the individual creative freedom.

Which aspect of the program provided you with the greatest value?

Above all, the hybrid work format, the feedback from other participants in the breakout sessions, and the final presentation made the program a great fit for me.

Why do you think a program specifically for the humanities, social sciences, and education is important?

The application of research findings in these disciplines differs significantly from other fields. The focus is less on monetizing an idea and more on how it can create societal value and where it can drive positive change. A specially tailored program takes this unique aspect into account.

What’s next for you and your project?

Next, I will further refine the project idea and seek dialogue with municipalities that are already open to participatory approaches in social reporting.

 

The application phase for the Validate Program, the third stage of “Catalyst GER,” has begun. Apply by September 15, 2026:

Application Form for the Validate Program – Catalyst GER Pilot Project

More information on Catalyst GER