UNIVERSITY OF COLOGNE

Algorithms generally refer to a clear set of instructions for solving a problem or a class of problems. Algorithms consist of a finite number of well-defined individual steps. This means that they can be implemented in a computer programme for execution, but can also be formulated in human language.

Researching and analysing algorithms is one of the main tasks of computer science and is usually excuted theoretically (without concrete implementation in a programming language). It is therefore similar to the approach in some mathematical fields, where the analysis is more focussed on the underlying concepts than on concrete implementations.

One of the oldest known algorithms, the Euclid algorithm, is used as an example to find the greatest common divisor of two integers greater than zero, i.e. the largest number by which both numbers can be divided without remainder.

The German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina recommends combining various geoscientific sub-disciplines into a modern Earth system science. „Um die Erde als Ganzes zu begreifen und effektiv zur Lösung der globalen Herausforderungen beizutragen, sollten die Geowissenschaften in Deutschland modernisiert werden und künftig von der Leitidee der Erdsystemwissenschaft geprägt sein“ according to the Leopoldina's Future Report on Science "Erdsystemwissenschaft – Forschung für eine Erde im Wandel", published on 26 July 2022.

In the German science system, the geosciences in particular have traditionally been concerned with the Earth system. The discipline has changed considerably over the past 20 years. Atmospheric research, geophysics, geology, biogeochemistry, geodesy, meteorology, microbiology, mineralogy, ecosystem research, remote sensing, palaeoclimatology and space research are all part of the geosciences or facets of Earth system research. The geosciences have thus become a highly diverse discipline that interfaces with many other subjects.

Earth system sciences are facing new challenges. On the one hand, ever better, longer and also new observations mean that there are enormous amounts of data that need to be managed and analysed. This can no longer be done manually. Traditional methods are also reaching their limits, so new algorithms can help. Secondly, the models for the entire Earth are becoming so complex that the atmosphere, oceans, biosphere, etc. can no longer be analysed separately. New algorithms can also be helpful for this.

At the end of the semester, we will certainly be able to answer this question better!

There are events for the interested public, but also workshops in which experts from both fields work together to learn from each other and develop joint ideas. Some workshops are specifically aimed at students. Visiting academics are also welcome. Further details can be obtained from the coordinators.

Yes, but at different locations and institutes.
 

Different, the language is explicitly mentioned in the list of events. Most of the events are held in English, only a few in German.