If you know who you want to work with, just email. However, I think it's important to have something to offer. Too often people make an 'offer' which mostly involves the person you're emailing doing lots of work. Also, make it clear exactly what you're offering in the email.
Collaborating with researchers from other universities can be a rewarding and productive experience. Here are some brief steps to facilitate such connections:
Identify Researchers: Start by identifying researchers in your field of interest. Use academic publications, conference proceedings, and university websites to find experts in your area.
Attend Conferences and Seminars: Academic conferences, seminars, and workshops are great places to meet researchers from other universities. Participate actively and network during these events.
Use Professional Social Networks: Platforms like LinkedIn and ResearchGate are useful for connecting with academics. Create a profile, join relevant groups, and actively engage in discussions.
Collaborate on Research Projects: Propose collaborative research projects that align with the interests of the researchers you want to connect with. This could be through joint research papers, grants, or other academic endeavors.
Reach Out Directly: Don’t hesitate to contact researchers directly via email. Introduce yourself, express your interest in their work, and propose potential areas for collaboration.
Join Academic Communities: Online forums and communities related to your field can be valuable for making connections.
Leverage Your Network: Ask your colleagues, mentors, or supervisors for introductions to researchers in other universities.
Remember, building meaningful academic relationships takes time and effort. Be patient, respectful, and genuinely interested in the work of others.