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Leibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology – BIPSLeibniz Institute for Prevention Research and Epidemiology – BIPS

BIPS as Part of UBRA

BIPS Departments News Research data

Within the U Bremen Research Alliance (UBRA), BIPS works closely with the University of Bremen and twelve other research partners. As a symbol of this collaboration, a UBRA Meeting Point has now been installed at BIPS. In the interview, Institute Director Iris Pigeot discusses the significance of Bremen’s research network.

A middle-aged man and a middle-aged woman are sitting on a red bench in front of the BIPS building.

Close Collaboration for a Strong Research Hub in Bremen: Derk Schönfeld and Iris Pigeot jointly inaugurate the UBRA Meeting Point. Copyright: UBRA

BIPS is a founding member of UBRA and, since 2016, has played a key role in advancing the Health Sciences research focus and the field of research data. Iris Pigeot is co-spokesperson of UBRA’s flagship project “Research Data Management and Data Science” and was one of the key figures in establishing the “Data Train” professional development program. We asked her three questions about UBRA:

From your perspective as the Director of the BIPS, what does it mean for your institution to be an active part of the UBRA – in terms of value, strategic benefit, and opportunities for your researchers? 
“As the director of a growing institute for health research, epidemiology and prevention, I see our membership in UBRA to be of high strategic importance. The close connection to the University Bremen and twelve strong research institutes in Bremen and Bremerhaven is not just formal – it is a vibrant network that moves us forward. What I particularly value is how we translate our shared values – from scientific excellence and responsibility to openness – into hands-on strategies. This creates an environment where researchers are supported and encouraged. The cooperatively used infrastructures are another key pillar of our collaboration. These provide access to resources that would otherwise be difficult to obtain and enable interdisciplinary projects.”

Now, a very quick question. Please complete the sentence “As a hub of science, Bremen stands out because…”
“…it brings together excellent health research, strong interdisciplinary collaboration, and a dynamic industry — creating an ecosystem that drives etiological research, healthcare and prevention.”

Is there a memorable moment or personal experience you’ve had in the context of the UBRA – perhaps something unexpected, enjoyable, or remarkable?
“I can still clearly remember my very first strategic meeting in the UBRA network, where the idea of teaching data literacy to researchers was born. Around that table, we sketched out the initial plans for what would become DataTrain — a program designed to equip scientists from all disciplines with competencies crucial for data-driven research. Fast forward to today, it’s amazing to see how far we have come: we launched an annual Starter Track and three more advanced Operator Tracks, which have reached over 8000 participants. In 2025, we were even successful to establish the training program Data Train Advanced where students may now obtain a Certificate of Advanced Studies. This makes data literacy visible as a recognized additional qualification. I am convinced, that high-quality research data and their responsible use are the foundation of scientific progress and informed decisions.”