The Knowledge Sphere “Bioengineering and Medical Technologies for One Health” brings together research and education at the intersection of natural sciences, engineering and medicine. Its focus includes biological processes, new materials, sensors, imaging and medical assistive systems – from the molecular level to practical applications. Researchers work on tissue engineering, biosensing, medical imaging, rehabilitation and AI-driven drug development, among other areas. Study programmes such as Biomedical Engineering and Technical Physics provide the scientific and technological foundations for these fields. In collaboration with clinical, industrial and public-sector partners, cutting-edge technology and engineering expertise are bing used to develop new methods and applications are developed for personalised medicine, healthcare and public health, contributing to a holistic understanding of health across humans, animals and the environment.

The Knowledge Sphere “Data and Intelligent Systems for Digital Transformation” encompasses research and education in artificial intelligence, data and distributed computing systems. Its goal is to develop and understand digital technologies that can be used in powerful, secure and trustworthy ways. Topics range from theoretical computer science, logic and mathematics to machine learning, computer vision and natural language technologies, as well as autonomous systems, digital twins and distributed computing. Study programmes such as Computational Science and Engineering provide the scientific and technical foundations for these fields. At the same time, applications are being developed for industry, infrastructure and society, including intelligent assistance systems, data-driven decision-making and new forms of collaboration between humans and AI.

The Knowledge Sphere “Future Energy and Advanced Manufacturing for Industrial Leadership” encompasses activities focused on sustainable energy systems and resource-efficient manufacturing. Key areas include renewable energy systems, sustainable materials, hydrogen, energy storage and next-generation manufacturing processes. Fundamental knowledge in thermodynamics, electrochemistry, materials science, fluid mechanics and control engineering provides the basis for new technologies. Study programmes such as Energy and Measurement Technologies, Green Chemistry and Environmental Engineering provide the skills required in these fields. At the same time, solutions are being developed for recycling, additive manufacturing and AI-driven manufacturing processes. In close collaboration with industry and society, research findings are translated into scalable technologies for the energy and resource transition.

The Knowledge Sphere “Quantum and Nano Systems for Deep Tech Leadership” brings together research and education in quantum physics, nanotechnology and quantum information. It provides the foundations for new technologies in computing, communications, sensing and materials development. Key areas include quantum computing, quantum communications and quantum sensing, as well as the development and modelling of new materials and semiconductors. Mathematics, physics and artificial intelligence play an important role alongside advanced measurement and manufacturing technologies. The Quantum Information Science and Technology master’s programme provides key competences for the emerging quantum era and complements interdisciplinary education in related fields. Research in this area is generating new approaches to secure communications, precision metrology, medical imaging and semiconductor technologies.

The Knowledge Sphere “Safety and Security for Resilient Societies” encompasses research and education dedicated to creating a secure and resilient society. Its focus includes protecting digital and physical infrastructures, addressing cyber threats, and adapting to climate change and other risks. Artificial intelligence, cryptography, geospatial data, remote sensing and environmental research provide important foundations for these efforts. Researchers develop methods to detect cyberattacks, secure critical systems, and better monitor and predict floods, droughts and changes in land use. Study programmes such as Digital Civil Engineering Science and the Erasmus Mundus Master of Cartography provide relevant competences for these challenges. In collaboration with public-sector and industrial partners, solutions are developed for secure infrastructures, water and energy systems, and climate adaptation.

The Knowledge Sphere “Urban Systems Planning for Sustainable Transformation” encompasses research and education for the sustainable development of cities and regions. Its focus includes buildings, energy, mobility, materials and spatial planning, as well as their interaction within urban systems. Research ranges from energy-efficient buildings and sustainable building and construction materials to renewable energy systems, smart grids, urban development, housing and climate adaptation. Digital methods such as Building Information Modelling, monitoring and computer vision support planning, construction and operation. Study programmes such as Green Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, Digital Civil Engineering Science and Building Science and Environment provide the competences required in these fields. Together with practitioners and society, research is translated into solutions for climate-neutral, resilient and liveable cities and regions.