International cooperation is a decisive factor in conducting research at the highest level and to produce results of global significance. Whether the focus is on sustainable environmental management, new forms of treatment for complex diseases, or mobility – scientists will only succeed in producing answers to the questions facing us in the 21st century by joining forces with their colleagues around the world. The Helmholtz centres contribute to solving major challenges facing society, science and the economy with top scientific research in six research fields: Energy, Earth and Environment, Health, Key Technologies, Structure of Matter, Aeronautics, Space and Transport. By establishing international strategic alliances, and by fostering scientific cooperation and networking with national and international partners in universities and companies, the Helmholtz Association creates the necessary framework for producing outstanding research results more quickly and more efficiently.

A modern research infrastructure with large-scale facilities – many of which are unique worldwide – is one of the major factors making the Helmholtz Association such an attractive research partner. In 2008, about 4500 guest researchers from all over the world took advantage of the research opportunities it provides – an indication of the Association’s function as a point of crystallisation for global research projects, particularly in the field of large-scale experiments, whether they involve observing and investigating worldwide climate change or basic research in physics.