Science

Science is the motor of progress. In a country with few natural resources like Germany, it is primarily research and development which enable a high-tech company like Jenoptik to occupy a top economic position.

However, Jenoptik does not only work on its own research projects but also cooperates with other research institutions, promoting science in the region. We lead the way with selected projects: we support young scientists, interdisciplinarity and international exchange, cultural and soft skills together with institutes of higher education in Thuringia.

Partnerships

Cooperation with the University of Applied Sciences Jena

In the “BEGEGNUNGEN Kultur – Technik – Wirtschaft” (ENCOUNTERS Culture – Technology – Business) project conceived jointly with the University of Applied Sciences Jena, the scientists of tomorrow intensively explore aspects of art and culture once every semester.

The unusual feature of the workshop series is the combining of art and culture with technical and economic issues. This is effected with the aid of a range of sponsorship projects in the field of art and culture – a welcome piggyback effect.

Cooperation with the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy at the FSU Jena

There is particularly close contact with the faculty of physics and astronomy at the FSU Jena. A PhD grant, which since January 1, 2006 lasts for a period of two years, is the most important element of the cooperation.

Alexander Szameit’s research investigates aspects of modern optics and opto-electronics.

Beyond this, JENOPTIK AG supports the faculty on further projects and events. As part of increasing the appeal of studying physics to female students, the faculty organizes a workshop specially for female school students.

Jenoptik also supports the public Saturday lectures on physics and astronomical subjects.

“Jugend forscht” – Sponsorship of State Competition Thuringia Since 1991

Jenoptik is especially committed to promoting young talent. As the patron and co-organizer, JENOPTIK AG actively supports new talent in the “Jugend forscht” (“young researchers”) State competition, simultaneously investing in its own future. As a sponsoring company, Jenoptik has supported the competition since its first round in 1991 not just financially but also with organizational help. At the 18th State finale in Jena in 2008, creativity, specialist knowledge and innovation were again in demand. True to the motto “VIVA LA NEUGIER!” (“VIVA curiosity”), 65 young researchers with 30 studies qualified for the finals of the Thuringian State competition.

Cooperation with the Friedrich Schiller University Jena (FSU)

With the support of the FSU, JENOPTIK AG is strengthening an important connection in the Jena network. JENOPTIK AG supports the FSU not just financially, but also offers expert assistance in the form of lectures and workshops.

As an example, JENOPTIK AG announced a student competition on the subject of “The Legacy of the Reformer Ernst Abbe” on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of Abbe’s death on January 15, 2005.

Further cooperation takes place, for example, as part of the children’s and summer university.

Project with Bauhaus University Weimar

JENOPTIK AG is supporting the “Licht und Blick im öffentlichen Raum” postgraduate project at the Bauhaus University Weimar. Students from a range of countries work on projects which explore the subject of light and its perception in urban spaces.

Seeing, and the requirements for seeing in public spaces, are to be examined using a technology anchored in the city. The various studies were documented and presented in the JENOPTIK AG gallery in February 2007.