ZEF is an international and trans-disciplinary scientific research institute at the University of Bonn which started its research activities in 1997. ZEF’s overall goal is to contribute with its research and education to enhancing sustainable human development and combating poverty in Asia, Africa and Latin America.

ZEF also strives to strengthen international development research and therefore cooperates closely with researchers from all over the world and with experts in the fields of development policy and cooperation.

ZEF has three research departments:
Political and cultural change
Economic and technological change
Ecology and natural resources management.

The three departments are interconnected by crosscutting research themes: Science policy, governance, water resources, land use and food security, renewable energy, environmental and climate change, mobility and migration, health and sanitation. Disciplinary research is also conducted within research departments and projects. New research projects and proposals for doctoral theses have to fit into ZEF’s research agenda. ZEF follows an integrative and trans-disciplinary research approach. Natural and social scientists devise research questions and solutions together with economists and in close cooperation with local partners.

Trans-disciplinary research bridges the gaps between Research and practice.

ZEF is running research projects in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Center for Development Research (ZEF), University of Bonn