Materials Science and Engineering in Germany

21 Oct Materials Science and Engineering in Germany

National Academy of Science and Engineering (acatech)
2009

Materials are the basis of the production industry. Traditionally, Germany has been very strongly positioned in this sector. Despite the great economic significance of classic materials and new materials, public awareness of materials is very low. Consequently, the corresponding degree programs are pursued by only a small number of students.
To advance its overall goals, such as the promotion of young scientists and engineers and the application of research results to technology, acatech, which is the German Academy of Science and Engineering, works to strengthen materials science and engineering in Germany.
Research is largely bound to the classic disciplines. As a result, gaps open in the material-to-product chain, which in turn lead to a delayed interdisciplinary transfer and ultimately to a delay in the application of materials in innovation.
The paper on hand is the result of the analysis conducted by a project group as part of the topical network of materials science and engineering of acatech. The current situation of materials science and engineering in Germany is described and the need for action presented.