Melanie Sauter – Chair of Political Science, Analytical International Politics

Interview with Prof. Dr. Melanie Sauter, Chair of Analytical International Politics

“Why did you choose the University of Mannheim?”

I chose the University of Mannheim because it has a strong international research profile, particularly in the field of political science. I was impressed by the focus on empirical and quantitative research, which fits in very well with my own research profile. I also appreciate that the university has a modern education system that is more oriented towards the American model. This differs from the traditional structures that are still more common at older German universities. This makes Mannheim particularly attractive for young researchers like me.

“Where did you work before?”

Before moving to Mannheim, I worked in Oxford, before that in Oslo and before that in Florence. So, to be honest, I didn't come to Mannheim because of the beauty of the city – especially not after stations like Oxford or Florence. The real reason was the high quality of the university and it's also nice to come back a bit closer to the German-speaking world. I come from Switzerland and Mannheim is very conveniently located. After my education in Switzerland, it is enriching to be able to give something back to German-speaking universities. It's nice not to be so far away from your own system.

“What is your research focus?”

My focus is on peace and conflict research, concentrating on two key areas: on the one hand, I study the role of humanitarian actors and peace commissions during ongoing conflicts. Secondly, I am increasingly looking at the influence of climatic conditions on conflicts, in particular how climate change – such as extreme droughts in Africa – influences conflict dynamics. An important aspect of my research is the question of what measures the international community can take to improve such situations on the ground.

“What current project are you working on?”

I am currently working on a research proposal that deals specifically with the role of humanitarian actors in climate-related conflicts. I am also working intensively on the use of satellite data to precisely measure local climatic conditions. This allows us to use data to determine how green the grass is in certain regions, which is often more meaningful than simply measuring precipitation. Because even if it doesn't rain in a region, that doesn't automatically mean it's in drought. Government measures may come into play in order to distribute water efficiently. With the satellite data, we can therefore determine very precisely how the conditions affect the local population and pastoralists. Conflicts between farmers and herders competing for water and grazing land often escalate into violence.

This project has a strong interdisciplinary focus and benefits from cooperation with geographers and their methods, such as the analysis of vegetation data. The project thus incorporates scientific principles on climate and vegetation conditions. At the University of Mannheim, for example, economists and lawyers work in the other departments.

“What did you study?”

I studied political science in Zurich, both at Bachelor's and Master's level. For my Master's, I went to Norway, where I specialized in peace and conflict studies. I then did my PhD in political and social sciences at the European University Institute in Florence. The topic of the program was quite general, but I already specialized in conflict dynamics there. I continued my research in Oxford while working on my book manuscript.

“What is your book about?”

In my book, I address the paradox of humanitarian neutrality in conflicts. Even when acting neutrally, humanitarian actors are almost always perceived as biased. This is mainly due to the fact that a party that sees you as neutral inevitably leads the other party to suspect you of being “in cahoots” with the other side. The book builds on my doctoral thesis and incorporates the latest research findings. Now I just have to finish the book, and then comes the long process of publication – in science, the mills grind slowly, as we all know.

“What is the biggest difference so far compared to your previous job?”

It's still difficult for me to say, as I've only been here for three weeks. The biggest difference is probably my new role as a junior professor. Previously, I was a post-doc twice in Oxford and Oslo. Now, of course, I have more responsibility.

Something that stands out here and is generally typical of the German-speaking system, i.e. in Switzerland and Germany: as a lecturer, you have much more freedom in designing your teaching. Everyone can design their own courses and teach the way they want to. At many other international universities, on the other hand, the curricula are fixed and you are assigned a course that runs in a similar way every year. Here, I have the freedom to teach my research specializations. Although this means more work, it also offers a lot of creative freedom. For example, I currently teach the two courses in the Bachelor's program: Climate Conflicts and Humanitarian Politics.

Another difference is digitalization. In Norway, everything was completely digitalized – not a single sheet of paper. Here, on the other hand, everything is still analog.

“What is your favorite singer or band?”

To be honest, I don't really have a favorite singer or band – this question stresses me out a bit. I listen to a wide variety of music, especially when I'm working. But it shouldn't be too lyrical, more instrumental, like electronic music or classical pieces. During my time in Italy, I also developed a preference for Italian folk songs, which really appealed to me. But in general, I find it difficult to commit myself to a particular style or band.

“Which famous person would you like to have lunch with in the canteen and why?”

I actually thought about this question a few years ago. Back then, I was a big fan of Michelle Obama and would still love to have lunch with her today. I find her exciting and inspiring – not only as a political scientist, but also as a woman to woman. I am particularly impressed by the way she has managed to make a name for herself and successfully drive forward her own projects despite the huge shadow cast by her famous husband.