HERSS Summer School in higher education research and science studies
International perspectives on higher education research and science studies: Global citizenships
The forthcoming HERSS Summer School 2026 seeks to advance the international dissemination of research findings and foster the creation of collaborative scholarly networks. We are delighted to welcome participation from higher education researchers representing nearly every continent, and we warmly encourage additional contributions from around the world.
The Summer School will be hosted at Justus-Liebig-University in Giessen, Germany, from 28 September to 02 October 2026, and will run concurrently with two major events:
- The final conference of WP2 of the HESPRI Project (Grant Agreement nº 101086224)
- The German-Sino Higher Education Forum
Background
The global landscape is undergoing profound transformation. At a time when prevailing trends move away from globalization; international collaboration remains indispensable for higher education institutions and the research community. Within this context, higher education research and science studies assume renewed significance on several levels:
- They provide a forum for critical reflection on transformations within higher education systems, clarifying social and geopolitical shifts, and identifying potential solutions.
- They highlight divergent national, geopolitical, and global perspectives, which may not always align, but whose contrast enriches mutual understanding.
- They examine the changing dynamics of research, teaching, governance, and knowledge transfer. For example, while some higher education systems integrate AI in diverse ways, others prioritize critical engagement with its implications.
Call for contributions (HERSS)
The HERSS Summer School 2026 invites submissions from doctoral candidates and early-career researchers in higher education research and science studies across the globe. Senior researchers are also cordially welcome to participate in the program.
To stimulate meaningful exchange and collaboration, participants are required to submit:
- A motivation letter (approx. 250 words) outlining their interest in attending.
- An abstract of their research project (approx. 500 words) detailing theoretical framework, methodology, and central research question.
Selected participants will have the opportunity to present their research progress in dedicated sessions, benefiting from peer feedback. The Summer School will also feature keynote lectures and workshops by international experts.
Submissions should be sent to: globalcitizenship2026
Timeline
- Deadline for submission: 15 February 2026
- Notification of acceptance/feedback: End of April, 2026
- Registration deadline: End of June 2026
- Summer School dates: 28 September - 02 October, 2026
Conference team
Ahoud Al-Asfour
Maria Joao Rosa
Dorina Rosca
Ana Melo