Laser Zentrum Hannover has founded the Research Institute for Surface and Nano-Technologies in Lomonosov University, Moscow - the first such non-commercial partnership between a Russian university and a German institute.
A year ago, the LZH took part in a competition of the International Office of the BMBF (German Federal Ministry of Education and Research), and was chosen to improve international research cooperation in optical technologies. The goal was no longer to set up a bilateral development project, but an effective and sustainable, mutual research institute. The Lomonosov Moscow State University was the partner who not only brought needed experience in the field of optical technology, but who also showed high interest in forming a mutual institute.
According to LZH, the Research Institute for Surface and Nano-Technology will carry out work on important, application-oriented research themes, and the competencies of both partners will be combined. Cooperation will start with research initiatives in the field of optical thin-film technologies. The LZH has already gathered diverse experience in manufacturing optical components, and the Lomonosov University has excellent competencies in simulating complex optical systems.
The recent visit of the members of the presidency of the Lomonosov University to the LZH was an important step for setting up the basics for cooperation. The partners got to know each other better and could exchange ideas about future work. Both agreed that the scientific work should begin with concrete projects. Both partners also showed interest in developing cooperative efforts with the Leibniz University Hannover. Study courses at both locations and mutual research activities in bio-photonics have been cited as two possible fields for future cooperation.
