Mission

The German Academic International Network (GAIN) is the network for researchers from Germany who are globally mobile, with a particular focus on North America. Since 2003, we have supported them through a wide range of programs to maintain connections with German research institutions, prepare for their return to the German research landscape, and help articulate their interests to political decision-makers.

Inform

Through our advisory and funding programs, we inform researchers about career opportunities in Germany and connect them with potential employers. In our newsletter and on our website, we regularly highlight current developments in science policy and relevant job openings. In doing so, we aim to ensure that the skills and knowledge gained abroad can be applied optimally in Germany.

Network

We connect German researchers with one another as well as with employers in academia and industry. In addition, we provide GAIN members with key information on starting their own businesses and facilitate connections with German founders, managers, and investors.

Build Careers

We provide examples of active career development. Experts from academia and industry in Germany share their knowledge and best practices, alongside field-specific and regional peers. A key part of our offerings is the annual GAIN Conference, held alternately in San Francisco and Boston, bringing together representatives from academia, research, business, and politics. At the local level, events such as Stammtisch meetups, career fairs, and workshops complement our program.

Founding Members and Partners

GAIN is a joint initiative of the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation (AvH), the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), and the German Research Foundation (DFG), and is funded by the  Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR). Associated members include the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, the Helmholtz Association, the Leibniz Association, the Max Planck Society, the German Rectors’ Conference, the German National Academic Foundation, and the German Cancer Aid. Additional partners from academia, industry, and politics regularly support our work.