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Görlitz is becoming an astrophysics hotspot: research is booming!
Görlitz relies on astrophysics: New large-scale research center DZA promotes regional development and scientific exchange.
Görlitz is becoming an astrophysics hotspot: research is booming!
The city of Görlitz has every reason to be happy. With the settlement of the German Center for Astrophysics (DZA) Not only will a new chapter in research be opened, but it will also provide a strong impetus for the entire Lausitz region. The expectations are high, and the fact that Görlitz is considered an up-and-coming location for top-class research makes things even more exciting.
A major DZA conference took place in Görlitz in June 2023, which attracted around 500 international guests. There are currently around 200 guests in the city for the Astronomical Society's annual meeting. Deutschlandfunk celebrates Görlitz as a “rising star on the research map,” which further sparks interest in the DZA. Astrophysicist Stefan Ohm, who works at the DZA, is enthusiastic about the positive developments and networks that have already emerged. He emphasizes that no extensive advertising measures are required to attract potential cooperation partners.
Structural change and collaboration
The DZA is also aware of its responsibility in the context of the structural change in Lusatia. The Department of Transformation Research will accompany the establishment of the center and actively work on shaping transformative change. Recommendations for structural and science policy are derived. This is done in close collaboration with various scientific actors.
The partners include renowned institutions such as Technical University of Dresden, the Zittau/Görlitz University as well as that Leibniz Institute for Ecological Spatial Development. Such collaborations are crucial to strengthen the region as a science and innovation location and to provide new economic impulses.
Economic prospects
As part of the “Knowledge creates perspectives for the region” project, initiated by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research and the Free State of Saxony, a total of two large research centers are to be established in Lusatia. In addition to the DZA, this will also be the case Center for the Transformation of Chemistry (CTC) find its headquarters here. Both research centers rely on outstanding scientists and are intended to provide solutions to social challenges.
With an annual budget of up to 170 million euros per center and the goal of creating around 1,000 jobs per facility, the course is set to sustainably strengthen the region. The centers are expected to go into full operation from 2026, which could not only stimulate research but also local economic structures. The construction work for permanent accommodation is already providing an upswing and offers many a glimpse into the future.
The establishment of the DZA and the focus on excellent research as well as the collaboration with industry show that Görlitz is well on its way to establishing itself as a key location for science and innovation. Structural change goes hand in hand with a responsible approach to the opportunities that arise from these developments.
Overall, it can be said that the prospects for the region could hardly be better. We will certainly hear and see a lot more from Görlitz in the coming years - they obviously have a good hand here!