Institute of Vocational Sciences in Metal Technology
The Institute for Vocational Sciences in Metal Technology (IBM) conducts research into competence, qualification, and occupational requirements in the fields of metal and automotive engineering. The findings inform the design of occupational profiles and the advancement of vocational teaching and learning processes. They are incorporated into didactic concepts for vocational education and training, as well as for teacher education in vocational schools. The institute’s teaching activities cover vocational didactics and research methods in vocational science within the study programme Metal Engineering, offered as part of the degree courses Technical Education (B. Sc.) and Teaching at Vocational Schools (M. Ed.). The institute aims to promote design-oriented and sustainable vocational education shaped by the interplay between work, technology, and vocational learning.
Head of Institute: Prof. Dr. Matthias Becker
Further information: IBM
Institute for Factory Systems and Logistics
The Institute for Factory Systems and Logistics (IFA) conducts research into fundamental principles of industrial production processes and applies its findings to both teaching and practice. Its key areas of focus include factory planning, production management, production design, and work science. The institute’s teaching programme is targeted at students of mechanical engineering, production technology, industrial engineering, and business administration. Additionally, the institute offers public and in-company seminars and workshops on topics such as factory planning, production control, ergonomics, and lean production.
Head of Institute: Prof. Dr.-Ing. habil. Matthias Schmidt
Further information: IFA
Institute for Forming Technology and Forming Machines
The research activities at the Institute for Forming Technology and Forming Machines (IFUM) focus on a holistic examination of manufacturing processes in bulk and sheet metal forming. In addition to machines and tools, the institute addresses topics such as computer-aided design and numerical simulation. As a practice-oriented institute, the IFUM engages in fundamental research as well as the investigation of current forming technology issues from industry. Whether solving specific challenges or developing overarching concepts, the IFUM is a committed and competent contact point for research partners and industrial stakeholders.
Head of Institute: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Bernd-Arno Behrens
Further information: IFUM
Institute for Production Technology and Machine Tools
The Institute for Production Technology and Machine Tools (IFW) examines the entire process chain — from machining production through the development of machine tools, including their drives and controls, to the organisation of production. The staff analyse and test the latest manufacturing processes and advance them towards industrial application. Using analytical methods, experimental investigations, and numerical simulations, the quality and efficiency of processes and machines are continuously improved.
Head of Institute: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Berend Denkena
Further information: IFW
Institute for Plastics and Circular Economy
The Institute for Plastics and Circular Economy (IKK) conducts research on defossilisation strategies to promote greater sustainability in the plastics sector. It examines the life cycle of bio-based and conventional plastics from material development to application. The focus lies on recycling and resource efficiency to substitute petrochemical carbon through repeated use and biogenic carbon. The IKK develops innovative recycling strategies and investigates the degradation mechanisms of bioplastics in environmental contexts.
Head of Institute: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hans-Josef Endres
Further information: IKK
Institute for Microproduction Technology
The research activities of the Institute for Microproduction Technology (IMPT) focus on the design and production-oriented manufacturing of micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) for applications in quantum technology, industry-related sensor technology, and biomedical engineering. Its core competencies include thin-film technology, structuring, packaging and interconnection technology, as well as mechanical processing and characterisation of MEMS and MEMS materials. Additionally, the institute develops concepts to reduce time-to-market for high-tech products.
Head of Institute: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Marc Wurz
Further information: IMPT
Institute for Transport and Automation Technology
Driven by the discipline of intralogistics as a scientific field, the Institute for Transport and Automation Technology (ITA) focuses primarily on transport and automation engineering. Current research topics include energy efficiency, data measurement and its automated analysis. Another key research area is assembly and connection technology, a vital technology of automation that enables the integration of electronic components into systems and components.
Head of Institute: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ludger Overmeyer
Further information: ITA
Institute of Materials Science
Beyond fundamental research, the Institute of Materials Science (IW) is committed to transferring current research findings into practical applications and offers services in materials and process development, testing, and consultancy to interested companies. In addition to research, teaching forms another pillar of the institute’s work, particularly the supervision of students in the degree programmes Mechanical Engineering, Production and Logistics, Biomedical Engineering, Metal Technology, Mechatronics, and Industrial Engineering.
Head of Institute: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Hans Jürgen Maier
Further information: IW
Institute for Assembly Technology and Industrial Robotics
The Institute for Assembly Technology and Industrial Robotics (match) develops concepts and components for handling and assembly technology, focusing on flexible, semi-automated assembly technologies using robots.
Research priorities include collaborative robots (soft robotics), gripping techniques for delicate and flexible components, new kinematic structures, and precision assembly.
Head of Institute: Prof. Dr.-Ing. Annika Raatz
Further information: MATCH
