Our Science and Research Focuses

Digital transformation is leading to tremendous changes in how we communicate, work, research, do business, learn, and live. Researchers in all of the University’s faculties are dedicated to shaping digital change for the benefit of society. In addition to diverse complex technical issues, social, cultural, and economic topics as well as the digital divide continue to play an increasingly important role. This highly topical field of research is being explored by numerous scientific disciplines, with computer science playing a key role.

Increasing life expectancy, chronic disease, and lengthy aging processes bring great social challenges. Researchers at Technische Universität Berlin are developing preventative strategies to avoid age-related illnesses. The humanities are engaged in the analysis and critical reflection of linguistic and digital communication as well as the hybridity of technology, cultures, institutions and art forms. Research in education and teacher training is of great significance in effectively meeting the challenges faced by society. Technische Universität Berlin also makes an important contribution at national level through the training of teachers in the areas of prevocational education and technical vocational training.

More than half of all people today live in conurbations - and the trend is rising. Scientists at Technische Universität Berlin are exploring ways to sustainably shape our urban and rural spaces. To achieve this, they combine a broad spectrum of planning, design and civil engineering skills within a comprehensive approach. This ranges from the understanding of societal processes and individual action to the assessment of the ecological impact of human action and, beyond this, to the sustainable optimization of technical and economic investments in human habitats.

Rapid further developments in light engineering and sensors due to new optical technologies and photonic systems offer a broad spectrum of application: In addition to data and telecommunications, various industrial areas of application play a role, particularly medical technology. The University is focused on the research and development of new materials, nanophotonic devices, and optical systems. This enables scientists to realize highly efficient light sources for laser diodes with high transmission rates in data communication.

Limited resources require the development of sustainable products throughout the entire life cycle. Scientists at Technische Universität Berlin are developing innovative solutions to this need. Important topic areas include Industrie 4.0, the development of new materials, and the further development and application possibilities of additive manufacturing (3D printing). The interaction of human and machine, technology impact assessment, and gender and diversity aspects in product design are also being investigated.