Research landscape

Excellent, innovative, open-minded – research in Germany enjoys an outstanding reputation around the world. And with good reason: its innovative spirit and scientific curiosity have made Germany one of the most agile actors when it comes to developing and patenting products and processes. The country is one of the world’s leading research nations, especially in future-oriented fields. A huge part in this is played by the superb research infrastructure and broad-based research at universities, non-university research organisations, research-based companies and the country’s federal and state research institutions.

Why Germany

There are many good reasons for doing research in Germany. It is a leading research nation – especially when it comes to the disciplines of the future – and its universities and research institutions are among the best in the world. 

Two scientists are looking at a screen.

University landscape

Germany is home to around 400 universities. They are one of the most important actors in the German research landscape and pursue top-class research on an international level.

A front view of the university of Hannover.

Research institutions

Germany has a total of over 1,000 publicly funded research institutions as well as various research and development centres run by industrial companies.

A researcher working on a machine at the Fraunhofer Institute for High Frequency Physics and Radar Techniques FHR.

R&D companies in Germany

Germany is a powerhouse when it comes to research and development (R&D). Above all, this is because German companies invest a great deal in improving their products: in hardly any other country does business spend as much on R&D. 

A scientist is standing next to an airbus, checking its mechanics.

Top universities

Competition is a key element in science and research, both for researchers and their institutions. This is why recent times have seen ranking lists experience a boom in Germany.

Researchers celebrating their graduation