How We Co-Create

Co-Creation – Numbers and Voice

What happens when science and industry don’t just coexist—but actively collaborate? At Forschungszentrum Jülich, the answer is called co-creation. In this interview, Professor Astrid Lambrecht, Chair of the Board of Directors, explains how strategic partnerships drive transformation.

May 2025

When science and industry work together, innovation emerges. In this interview, Prof. Astrid Lambrecht, Chair of the Board of Directors at Forschungszentrum Jülich, shares insights into Jülich’s approach to co-creation.

Prof. Lambrecht, why is collaboration with industry so important?

The collaboration between science and industry is crucial for tackling urgent challenges such as the energy transition, digitalization, or structural change. Of course, the pursuit of knowledge is the central driver of research. But these insights only lead to real solutions when they are translated into practice.

One example is our collaboration with TSI Incorporated, a provider of measurement technology. Our atmospheric research has contributed to the development of a technology capable of detecting nanoparticles — a method that could, in the future, be used to monitor air quality and find applications in health protection, pharmaceutical manufacturing, or semiconductor production. Projects like this demonstrate how strategically connecting basic research with real-world applications can facilitate the transfer of knowledge.

What concrete steps is Forschungszentrum Jülich taking to foster stronger partnerships?

As Chair of the Board of Directors, I am committed to building and maintaining strategic partnerships with companies — ranging from DAX-listed corporations to regional medium-sized enterprises.

We are placing a stronger focus on co-creation: through strategic partnerships, companies gain direct access to our scientific expertise — accelerating the transfer of knowledge into practice. Dedicated contacts and tailored formats make it easier to initiate joint projects. Funding programs such as our Innovation Fund provide targeted support for these initiatives. In addition, we offer comprehensive support for spin-offs — from the initial idea all the way to market entry.

Spin-offs at FZ Jülich: Successful entrepreneurs

»We need processes that are simpler, more streamlined, and considerably faster.«

Prof. Astrid Lambrecht
Chairperson of Forschungszentrum Jülich

Which technologies will shape the future focus areas of energy, climate, information, and sustainable circular economy?

Climate-friendly energy sources and powerful information systems play a central role. One example is quantum computing: our platform JUNIQ provides companies and research institutions access to quantum computers and the necessary expertise. This enables the optimization of complex processes — from supply chains to drug development. This demonstrates how new technologies can become applicable more quickly through targeted collaboration.

What political conditions or policies could help speed up research and technology transfer?

From my perspective, what we especially need are simpler, less bureaucratic, and significantly faster processes for research collaborations and spin-offs. Speed is a crucial factor to keep pace with technological advancements. Here, politics can play a key role by establishing clear framework conditions.

Collaborate with Forschungszentrum Jülich

^{Image credit: Bernd Nörig / Forschungszentrum Jülich}

Co-creation begins with the first dialogue

Forschungszentrum Jülich understands co-creation as a strategic partnership: with a shared goal, mutual understanding, and a willingness to share knowledge. Where science and industry cooperate as equals, more than just technological development happens — change emerges.

Start a conversation