TH OWL has been successfully represented on the renowned research map of the German Rectors' Conference (HRK) for several years. This map presents the outstanding research priorities of German universities and serves as a valuable point of reference for scientists in Germany and abroad regarding the research achievements of German universities.
TH OWL President Professor Dr. Jürgen Krahl: "The research strength of our colleagues not only makes TH OWL stand out nationwide, but also keeps teaching up to date for the benefit of our students."
In the current evaluation period from 2021 to 2023, which was completed in April 2025, the research activities of the three institutes at TH OWL – the Institute for Energy Research (IFE), the Institute for Life Science Technologies (ILT.NRW), and the Institute for Industrial Information Technology (inIT) – were once again rated positively. This means that the university remains on the research map and underlines its importance as an innovative research location.
"The renewed mention of our focal points on the HRK research map illustrates that we at our university perceive the responsibility to actively participate in societal transformation processes within the framework of our research as an important goal," says Professor Dr. Jan Schneider, head of ILT.NRW.
By establishing thematically focused research fields, the TH demonstrates its special expertise and, as a driver of innovation in the region, contributes to the development of innovative solutions to societal challenges. This strategic orientation strengthens diversity and competitiveness in higher education and offers students and society valuable impetus for the future.
Professor Thomas Schulte, Head of the IFE Institute: "We are very pleased that our institutes are listed on the HRK research map. This is the joint achievement of many professors, staff, and students at our university. In addition to teaching, research and transfer are fundamental tasks of a university of applied sciences today, which we take very seriously."
The continuous presence on the HRK research map confirms TH OWL's commitment to making its excellent research visible – for the benefit of science, the economy, and society.
Professor Dr. Henning Trsek, Director of the inIT: "The renewed inclusion of our institutes on the HRK research map shows how successfully we combine research and transfer at TH OWL. Networking and knowledge exchange are among the central strengths of our university. Together with strong partners from industry and science, we develop practical solutions with real added value for our region and beyond."
With these focal points, the universities also demonstrate their expertise in solving major societal challenges. Regardless of the major research focal points, research is also conducted on many other topics at each university.
All information on the HRK research map can be found at: www.hrk.de/themen/forschung/forschungslandkarte/