TU Braunschweig: University Council decides on the future for research and mobility!

TU Braunschweig: University Council decides on the future for research and mobility!

On July 1, 2025, the University Council of the Technical University of Braunschweig met in the Open Hybrid LabFactory (OHLF) in Wolfsburg to discuss strategic topics for the future positioning of the university. Chairman Prof. Dr. Lothar Hagebölling chaired the meeting, where, among other things, the results of the Excellence Initiative were on the agenda. The University Council particularly acknowledged the success of the “QuantumFrontiers” cluster, which will be supported for a further funding period.

Another point of discussion was the developments in the research focus of mobility. These will continue without the Cluster of Excellence, in close coordination with Science Minister Falko Mohrs and TU President Angela Ittel. The latter emphasized the importance of the strategic development of the university, which is expressly supported by the University Council.

Research priorities and collaborations

The Open Hybrid LabFactory acts as a research campus with a focus on the “circular economy” and has already produced over 550 degrees and doctorates. The research content is particularly interested in topics such as vehicle dismantling, plastic recycling and battery dismantling. Dr. Oliver Blume, member of the university council and chairman of the board of Volkswagen and Porsche, expressed himself positively about the existing cooperation between the TU Braunschweig and Volkswagen.

Another notable point at the meeting was the “SE2A – Sustainable and Energy Efficient Aviation” cluster, which is part of the mobility research focus. Science Minister Falko Mohrs and President Angela Ittel assured the support of this research focus. In addition, the “Ecoversity” funding project was successfully acquired to develop new research priorities. “Ecoversity” brings together strategic projects that focus on modernizing the university in the areas of research, studying and teaching, as well as transfer and governance.

Innovation through lightweight constructions

The TU Braunschweig is also committed to innovative approaches in the area of ​​vehicle development. The lightweight design is particularly highlighted as a key technology for future vehicle concepts in the automotive industry. This focuses on digitalization processes, electromobility and energy and resource efficiency. As part of a new cooperation model, the Lightweight Campus, a unique infrastructure is being created that connects science and industry and thus facilitates the transformation of ideas into innovative solutions for sustainable mobility.

The initiative is a public-private partnership led by the TU Braunschweig and involves strong scientific partners such as the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. The industrial partners are among the established technology leaders in their respective areas. The OHLF infrastructure plays a central role in future developments.

Overall, the University Council shows clear support for the identification and further development of promising key topics. The TU Braunschweig is therefore viewed as well positioned and will continue to be actively supported on its path to strategic development.