RWTH Aachen University

RWTH Aachen University exploits strong research networks and the intellectual curiosity of its staff to address bold scientific questions, transfer forefront knowledge and drive innovative discoveries that impact global challenges.

All members of RWTH are expected to conduct their research with the highest level of integrity and commitment to excellence and to follow the University’s Code of Conduct in all interactions with third parties on behalf of RWTH.

Major accomplishments over the past decade

1. developing a strong profile nationally and internationally in the natural sciences
2. maintaining excellence in the engineering sciences
3. exploiting the Jülich Aachen Research Alliance (JARA), a unique strategic partnership with the Helmholtz Forschungszentrum Jülich to pursue frontier research, share infrastructure and recruit top talent
4. implementing a tenure track program and targeted initiatives to close the gender gap
5. establishing eight Profile Areas to promote convergence of different disciplinary expertise. All Profile Areas focus on frontier research at the interfaces of different disciplines and tackle questions of societal relevance

The Excellence Initiative of the German federal and state governments provided RWTH with a unique opportunity to boost its research profile by strengthening the natural sciences and fostering interdisciplinary research. These were the first steps in RWTH’s steady transformation into an Integrated Interdisciplinary University of Technology and also towards convergence.

Topics include sustainable synthetic fuels, data mining, computational science, production technology, high-performance materials, health, renewable resources and mobility.

The successful implementation of the institutional strategy is reflected in the reputation of RWTH’s graduates, the exceptional position of the University regarding acquisition of peer-reviewed third party funds and the RWTH Aachen Campus.

The RWTH Aachen Campus visibly highlights the research prowess of the University. The entrepreneurial mindset and collaboration with industry partners fostered on the Campus benefit both students and employees of RWTH.

The many stimulating ideas are already having an impact in Aachen and the entire tri-border region of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands. An innovative knowledge community is evolving that is closely networked with some of the world’s leading research and industry partners.

RWTH is a major driving force behind this development. And Aachen, as a livable and lovable city at the crossroads of three cultures, provides an ideal environment for this creative hub.