We are a research university and initiator
Furtwangen University is one of the strongest research universities for applied sciences in Baden-Württemberg. Our strength is based on application-oriented research projects that produce new scientific findings. These results not only provide internationally recognised scientific impulses in future fields, but also make effective contributions to innovation in the region.
The university uses the innovation potential of application-oriented research to meet social challenges responsibly, creatively and cooperatively. Current fields of application for HFU research include production, digitalisation in industry and commerce, medical technology, health and care.
HFU's research institutes enjoy a good reputation in their specialist areas throughout Germany and internationally, have modern facilities and are part of the global research landscape with highly specialised research.
At the same time, they are known as reliable partners for research and development at regional level, particularly in the research and innovation network 'Connected Health in Medical Mountains (CoHMed)', as well as nationally and internationally. They serve as a professional home for numerous doctoral students and thus make a significant contribution to the training of young scientists.
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Thirsty for knowledge?The umbrella organisation for research
The Institute for Applied Research (IAF)
The Institute of Applied Research (IAF) is the central point of contact for all questions relating to research. As the umbrella organisation for HFU's research activities, the IAF offers its members a platform for subject-specific and interdisciplinary exchange and promotes cooperation. The IAF currently has 44 members in six key research areas. The HFU research institutes, in which application-oriented research is carried out, are assigned to the IAF.
In addition, the IAF office team informs, advises and supports all professors who wish to acquire third-party funding to carry out a research project.
Our research institutes
In our 14 high-performance research institutes, we work on creative solutions to practical problems.
Internal link opens in the same window:Overview of the research institutes at HFU
The HFU Doctoral Programme
The HFU Cooperative Doctorate Programme
With the HFU Cooperative Doctorate Programme, HFU supports and qualifies doctoral students who are doing their doctorate at HFU.
The interdisciplinary programme is the central service point for students interested in doing a doctorate, doctoral candidates and supervising professors.
HFU is a member of the Doctoral Association of Universities of Applied Sciences Baden-Württemberg, which exercises the right of the universities of applied sciences (HAW) to award doctorates. Since January 2024, doctoral candidates have been able to register at the association's doctoral centre.
The HFU Innovation and Research Center
Milestone in terms of research
With the Innovation and Research Center (IFC), HFU promotes and supports the transfer of knowledge and technology and thus contributes to strengthening regional innovation, which is driven by small and medium-sized enterprises.The IFC also offers innovative, technology-oriented companies, business founders and start-ups space for creativity and access to HFU's research and development facilities.
The IFC offers a comprehensive range of support services and develops individual support measures, especially for those interested in starting up a business and for founders.
What the IFC has to offer
- Collaborative projects with industry and contract research with SMEs
- Promotion and further development of innovations and research activities in SMEs
- Advice and support for start-up activities
- Promotion of cooperative relationships between science, associations, industry and politics
- Implementation of further training courses
- Offering co-working spaces for creative minds
- Research or development projects between universities and companies
- Networking through events, trade fairs and exhibitions
- Transfer of knowledge and skills in entrepreneurship (teaching, lectures, information events)
- Cost-effective use of office and seminar rooms
- Placement of mentors, coaching
Aim high
Find out more
HFU works on creative solutions to real-life problems in 14 research institutes.
to the research institutes
Where we get down to business
Find projects
Our research blog gives you valuable insights into our diverse projects and fields of research.
to the Research Blog