With the aim of expanding its internationalization efforts and establishing new strategic partnerships, Professor Patrícia Kauark, Director of the Institute for Advanced Transdisciplinary Studies (IEAT) at the Federal University of Minas Gerais (IEAT/UFMG), paid an institutional visit to Heidelberg University, Germany, on June 22–23, 2026.

The main focus of the visit was the Heidelberg Center for Ibero-American Studies (HCIAS), an interdisciplinary center dedicated to Ibero-American studies and to strengthening scientific cooperation between Heidelberg University and institutions in Latin America, Portugal, and Spain.

On June 22, Patrícia Kauark met with HCIAS Executive Director Dr. Katrin Berty and researcher Renata Motta. During the meeting, the principal areas of activity of IEAT were presented, and opportunities for collaboration in research, academic mobility, and the development of joint initiatives were discussed. Annegret Trettin, from Heidelberg University’s Institute for Global Health, also participated in the meeting, further broadening the interdisciplinary dialogue on topics of shared interest between the institutions.

Continuing the institutional agenda, on June 23 Professor Kauark met with Tobias Just, Executive Manager of the Marsilius Kolleg, Heidelberg University’s institute for advanced study, as well as holding a follow-up meeting with Dr. Katrin Berty. The discussions provided an opportunity to exchange experiences regarding the organizational models of institutes for advanced studies, their strategies for promoting interdisciplinary research, and prospects for developing collaborative initiatives between the institutions.

The meetings marked an important step toward strengthening ties between IEAT/UFMG, HCIAS, and the Marsilius Kolleg, opening new opportunities for future joint initiatives, including researcher exchanges, collaborative research projects, the organization of scientific events, and the expansion of international research networks.

The visit forms part of IEAT’s internationalization strategy, through which the Institute has sought to strengthen its participation in global networks of institutes for advanced study and expand opportunities for international scientific cooperation for the UFMG academic community.