Development in constant dialogue with society
Focus on current research topics
The FZI develops innovations for the benefit of society in collaboration with companies and public institutions of all sizes. We collaborate with our partners on pioneering research projects, cutting across industries and combining expertise with a methodological approach. Together, we create tailor-made, application-oriented innovations that strengthen the economy and society in international competition.
Each year, the FZI identifies key research focuses to guide its strategic activities and project initiatives.
Applied Artificial Intelligence
AI is one of the key technologies of the future. At the FZI, we develop practical AI methods and transfer our research directly to companies and society. Ethical and legal concerns are on our agenda right from the start. The result is trustworthy AI that delivers secure, accountable, and practical benefits.
Mobility and Logistics
We use IT to shape the connected, safe, and sustainable mobility and logistics of the future – through autonomous shuttles, smart logistics processes, and the further development of software-defined vehicles. We are accelerating the transfer of innovation to road and rail through simulations, optimized prototyping processes, open source, and open data.
Energy and Sustainability
Sustainability and practical relevance count: We develop IT innovations for companies that contribute to a climate-friendly, resource-efficient economy. With open-source solutions, digitalization, and standardization for the energy, water management, mobility, and production sectors, we support customers in achieving energy efficiency and flexibility, decarbonization, and sustainable processes.
Safety, Security and Resilience
A secure digital future: We strengthen cybersecurity, safety, and data protection for business and administration, contributing our regulatory expertise. We conduct research on secure embedded systems and privacy-enhancing technologies, support the implementation of AI regulation in real-world laboratories, and assist with its implementation. All of this is underpinned by sound technical expertise and ethical considerations.
Digital Society
Drawing on our expertise in applied AI, computational social science, and medical technology, we develop evidence-based tools for the political, business, and civil sectors. Funded by the EU, the federal government, and the states, we are driving forward projects that promote digital participation and democracy. In doing so, we always consider current challenges.
Robotics
Robust, safe, and offering genuine social benefit: We develop intelligent mobile systems and walking robots with autonomous functions for use in space travel, industry, and public spaces. This involves developing and evaluating AI-based solutions in the FZI Living Lab Service Robotics for use in safety-critical environments and everyday assistance.