Each year, thousands of people are forced to flee their homelands. Among them: refugee scientists, who were respected academics in their countries. At the same time, there are European scientists who need capable research partners for their projects.

These refugee scientists could play an important role in European research – if it wasn’t for their ban to work or travel until they are granted full asylum. In collaboration with EURAXESS, a job procurement platform for researchers and scientists funded by the European Commission, we thought about a way to bring these people together

Mobile first? Mobile only! Most refugees have lost everything during their month-long journey. But there is one thing every refugee cherishes like life itself: His smartphone, a major tool to communicate, messaging family and friends at home and help them navigate through the continent. So, using the one remaining tool every refugee has, we created a platform to cross borders – without actually crossing them.

After registration, European and refugee scientists can provide information about their research history, their area of expertise or their practical experiences. A list of publications substantiates their information. When finding a possible research partner, the platform then automatically matches scientist based on their information provided. With their device, the scientists can now have subject-specific talks, video chat or share messages and documents, using Research Buddies as a hub for any tasks or meetings. Short: Make science together – independent of their whereabouts or asylum status.