Cutting-edge research requires a strong network of leaders from all sectors of society. Conversely, the transfer of scientific knowledge is a central task for every researcher. Given that findings from basic research are indispensable drivers of innovation for industrial progress, the rapprochement between the Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light (MPL) and the Nuremberg Chamber of Industry and Commerce (IHK) for Middle Franconia is a natural step. In April, a delegation from the IHK Middle Franconia visited the research institute to gather information and strengthen ties.
Dr. Armin Zitzmann, President of the IHK for Middle Franconia, visited MPL for a meeting with Managing Director Prof. Florian Marquardt – and during the subsequent tour of the institute, witnessed how scientists from around the world are conducting cutting-edge basic research on the science of light in Erlangen. Zitzmann was accompanied by Prof. Siegfried Balleis, former mayor of the city of Erlangen, and Peter Steger, who served as Erlangen’s city partnership representative for decades.
The “fact walk” through the building took the group from the rooftop terrace, with a view of the metropolitan region and its institutions and companies, all the way down to the basement with its vibration- and temperature-controlled research laboratories. Along the way, the guests learned interesting facts about MPL, such as the architectural requirements the institute must meet for scientific operations, as well as how international and diverse the scientific community at MPL is.
The helium liquefier sparked particular interest: liquid helium is indispensable for many experiments in quantum physics. With its own liquefaction plant, MPL is becoming more independent in its supply of this raw material while also prioritizing greater sustainability in its research operations. Further stops on the tour led to the technology of photonic optical fibers and to the cryostat, which provided insights into experimental work at extremely low temperatures.
A few days later, the Erlangen IHK committee, led by its chairman Johannes Hofmann, met at MPL and toured the institute along the same route. In addition, during the preceding lecture, also given by Prof. Marquardt, they learned about the “Verein der Freunde und Ehemaligen des Max-Planck-Instituts für die Physik des Lichts e.V.,” which was founded to strengthen precisely this network between science, industry, and society.
The committee members seized the opportunity. The MPL Friends Association is pleased to welcome two new members.
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