JUICE Innovation Contest 2024: Young Researchers Propel Their Ideas Towards Market Success
Jülich, October 14, 2024 – The 4th JUICE Innovation Contest, held on October 11 at Forschungszentrum Jülich, showcased the innovative potential of early-career researchers as they demonstrated how to transform their scientific discoveries into market-ready products and services.
Seven dynamic teams presented their breakthrough ideas to a distinguished jury and an engaged audience. The top prize of €2,500, along with additional support from Startup Village Jülich, was awarded to the project "CeraBatt" for its pioneering work in developing ceramic solid-state batteries. These batteries are designed as a safer and more durable alternative to conventional Li-ion batteries, specifically targeting the stationary energy storage market.
From the Lab to Real-World Applications
The JUICE Program empowers young scientists to translate their research into tangible innovations with commercial potential. Throughout the program, participants learn how to bring their ideas to market, building valuable connections with potential partners and investors.
Shaping the Future of Innovation
This year’s contest offered a fascinating glimpse into the cutting-edge research taking place at Forschungszentrum Jülich. The diversity of projects highlighted the broad range of scientific excellence across the institution's many disciplines.
The teams in the JUICE Program have once again demonstrated the strength of our research. Their innovative ideas show that we're on the right track to turning Jülich research into real-world solutions.
The jury, consisting of experts such as Sven Pennings from AGIT mbH, Dr. Ansgar Schleicher from Techvision Fonds, Dr. Bernadette Simon from the University of Cologne, Ingmar Stock from Startup Village Jülich and Dr. Christian Cremer, head of the Innovation Department at Forschungszentrum Jülich, was impressed by the quality of the projects submitted. “The teams of the JUICE Program have once again shown the potential of our research. Their innovative ideas are proof that we are on the right track to make Jülicher research effective,” Cremer says.
The winners
1. Place: CeraBatt
Melanie Rosen (IMD-2), Konstantin Köster (IMD-2), Konstantin von Foerster (IET-1) & Tan Tan (ZEA-1)
The CeraBatt project focuses on ceramic solid-state batteries as an innovative alternative to traditional Li-ion batteries that provide improved safety and durability. These batteries are developed specifically for the stationary energy storage market and are intended to provide more reliable and longer-lasting energy sources.
2. Place: Para Digm
Sebastian Siegel (PGI-14) & Jan Finkbeiner (PGI-15)
To meet challenges such as high energy consumption, the Para Digm project has developed tried-lasting function blocks specifically for AI applications that enable users to seamlessly integrate them into their systems.
3. Place: Nonlinear Magnetic Systems
Timur Bikulov (IBI-3) & Anastasia Gerzhik (IBI-3)
The Nonlinear Magnetic Systems project focuses on the development of a new device for the quality control of magnetic nanoparticles, which enables a more efficient and cost-effective analysis. The analyzed nanoparticles are particularly valuable in minimally invasive surgery and support advanced medical procedures.
About JUICE
The JUICE Program at Forschungszentrum Jülich provides young scientists with the knowledge and tools to explore the commercial potential of their research, bridging the gap between academia and industry. It aims to open new perspectives for researchers while fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. For more information and to register for the JUICE Program 2025, visit go.fzj.de/juice.
Contact JUICE Program
Innovation Education am FZ Jülich
Last Modified: 16.10.2024