Research

Materials Devices
Sustainability Acceleration

The FAU Solar environment is well-established and fruitful for joint interdisciplinary research

CRC 814 Additive Manufacturing
CRC 953 Synthetic Carbon Allotropes
CRC 1411 Design of Particulate Products
IGK 2495 Energy Conversion Systems
TRR 154 Mathematical Modelling, Simulation and Optimization using the Example of Gas Networks

To support the strong research environment in the field of FAU Solar, FAU has established Competence Sub-Units, institutes, and research networks.

Interdisciplinary Center for Molecular Materials (ICMM@EAM): Founded in 2007, ICMM promotes interdisciplinary research at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and material science. It focuses on the development of materials based on molecular building blocks, with applications in nanoelectronics, medicine, and energy conversion technology. ICMM collaborates with industrial laboratories to explore new applications for molecular materials.
Erlangen Center for Interface Research and Catalysis (ECRC@EAM): Established in 2008, ECRC brings together scientists from chemical engineering, synthetic organic and inorganic chemistry, as well as experts in physical and theoretical chemistry. The center specializes in investigating molecular interfaces, interface formation, and structure-property relationships. It plays a vital role in emerging material concepts and photon-time management.
Interdisciplinary Center for Nanostructured Films (IZNF@EAM): The IZNF research building, inaugurated in 2019, provides a platform for interdisciplinary research on nanostructured thin films. Scientists from various disciplines collaborate to develop a unified methodology for different application areas such as photonics, optoelectronics, catalysis, and energy technology.
Center for Nanoanalysis and Electron Microscopy (CENEM@EAM): Established in 2010, CENEM offers cutting-edge instrumentation and expertise for the microscopic and analytical characterization of materials and devices at the atomic scale. The center focuses on electron microscopy, X-ray microscopy, cryo-TEM, scattering methods, scanning probes, and atom probe microscopy. It contributes to the development of materials and devices for photovoltaic applications.
Central Institute for Advanced Materials and Processes (ZMP@EAM): Established in 2005, ZMP conducts interdisciplinary research at the interface of materials science, mechanical engineering, chemistry, and physics. The institute develops new material concepts and corresponding production techniques, with a particular focus on lightweight functional components and 3D printing technologies. ZMP’s research is relevant to solar module processing and improves the efficiency of PV systems.
Erlangen National High-Performance Computing Center (NHR@FAU): NHR integrates systematic and model-guided performance engineering into computing-related research. The center develops analytic performance models, tools, and libraries, providing insights into performance issues and optimizing performance. NHR also develops teaching material and courses that promote performance-aware programming.
Atomic Structure Simulation Lab (ASSL): ASSL is an interdisciplinary competence center that assists users in selecting and utilizing atomistic simulation methods in a high-performance computing environment. The lab actively coordinates the development of high-performance simulation codes and facilitates interdisciplinary collaborations.