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Insights from the 2026 International RSE Survey

As FutuRSI explores whether and how a national research software institution could strengthen Germany’s research software ecosystem, understanding the perspectives of the community is essential. The 2026 International RSE Survey, led by the UK Software Sustainability Institute, therefore included a set of questions specifically for respondents in Germany. These questions explored an issue that has gained increasing attention: should a national research software institution be established in Germany, and if so, what should it look like?

Over the past few months, we have taken a closer look at 19 research and infrastructure institutions from Germany, Europe and North America: their history, governance models, funding sources, strengths, potential blind spots and opportunities. These institutions vary widely: some have existed for decades, whilst others are still finding their footing; some enjoy secure, long-term funding, whilst others move from one project phase to the next. In this six-part series, we examine the findings from this analysis most relevant to the establishment of a German Research Software Institution.

In pitch decks for new research initiatives, one phrase crops up surprisingly often: “We develop our services together with the community.” In practice, however, this often means that whilst a stakeholder survey is carried out at the outset, the team subsequently continues to work largely independently.

Over the past few months, we have taken a closer look at 19 research and infrastructure institutions from Germany, Europe and North America: their history, governance models, funding sources, strengths, potential blind spots and opportunities. These institutions vary widely: some have existed for decades, whilst others are still finding their footing; some enjoy secure, long-term funding, whilst others move from one project phase to the next. In this six-part series, we examine the findings from this analysis most relevant to the establishment of a German Research Software Institution.

Across the institutions analysed, one challenge appeared again and again: securing sustainable funding. A project grant is launched, a dedicated team builds up expertise, services are developed, and a community takes shape. But then a critical question arises: what happens when the funding runs out?