The International Research Training Group (IRTG) ‘Temporalities of Future’, a cooperation between the Institute for Latin American Studies at Freie Universität Berlin, several institutes of Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Universität Potsdam, El Colegio de México, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and Centro de Investigaciones y Estudios Superiores en Antropología Social, aims to offer a new perspective on the study of temporalities of the future in the social and cultural sciences. In close collaboration with colleagues from different disciplines, we seek to contribute to the growing field of research on temporalities of the future by realigning investigations towards a better understanding of global entanglements and the meaning of cultural heterogeneity, with Latin America serving as the primary example of both aspects. Our focus on the aspirations and anticipations of various actors who produce new temporalities of the future through constant interaction represents a novel approach which adds a much-needed perspective on subaltern and non-Western agency with regard to the future. The close cooperation of German and Mexican academic institutions allows a multifaceted investigation of temporalities of the future in colonial, postcolonial and contemporary Latin America, fostering joint empirical and theoretical research in an innovative interdisciplinary framework.

The IRTG enables qualified young researchers to write their doctoral dissertations in a highly stimulating research environment. PhD students are advised by at least one supervisor in both Mexico and Germany (in tandem) and benefit from the diversity of regional knowledge networks. The programme involves longer periods of research and study at the Mexican and German partner institutions. In this way, it promotes the work of young researchers within a framework of international and intercultural teaching and research. The study programme of the IRTG is tailored to the specific needs of the PhD students. In addition to research-oriented seminars and intensive mentoring, it offers a wide range of events such as lecture series, research-methodology workshops and guest lectures. The following disciplines participate in the IRTG programme: history, political science, sociology, economics, social and cultural anthropology, literary and cultural studies, gender studies and studies of education.