Participants during the BMWK's visit to DESY, from left to right: Beate Heinemann, Andrea Lübcke, Michael Kellner, Sabine Brock and Christian Stegmann. Photo: DESY, Helene Ebel
Christian Stegmann, Director of Astroparticle Physics and Head of the DESY site in Zeuthen, and Beate Heinemann, Director of Particle Physics, provided insights into current and planned research projects. The focus was particularly on pioneering technologies that are being developed at the DESY sites in Hamburg and Zeuthen and have the potential to provide positive impact to address big societal challenges. One outstanding example of this is research into accelerator technologies: Frank Stephan, head of the Zeuthen accelerator group, presented the “Photoinjector Test Stand Zeuthen (PITZ)”. As the only research accelerator in Brandenburg, PITZ is not only important for the operation of the European X-ray laser European XFEL in Hamburg, but also for innovative developments in medical technology, particularly in the field of FLASH radiation therapy to combat tumors.
“Science has enormous problem-solving expertise when it comes to tackling issues and challenges facing our society. Transfer and the associated innovation process are economic drivers and create benefits for the general public - especially when we look at activities such as cancer research,” explained Stegmann.
Kellner was impressed by the innovative strength of DESY and the close cooperation with industry. “The technologies being developed here have the potential to provide economic impetus and contribute to regional development in the long term,” he emphasized.
During the tour of the workshops, the visitor got to know the important role, which DESY plays in technical and vocational training, as DESY trains skilled workers who will work in the region.
DESY researchers showcased the potential of quantum computing and its development and application during a presentation of the Center for Quantum Technology and Application (CQTA. Sabine Brock, Deputy Chief Technology Officer at DESY, explained how DESY is creating an ecosystem for innovation on the research campus. This includes networking with other knowledge organizations and research institutes inside and outside the campus, as well as with industry and local, regional and national politics and public administration.
The visit showed that research and innovation are essential drivers for sustainable progress and economic development. DESY relies on strong cooperation with industry and forward-looking training concepts in order to actively shape various future-oriented technologies, including in the field of accelerators, sensor technology and quantum computing.
