Linking Industry and Research

As an industry-oriented research institute, the Laser-Laboratorium Göttingen (LLG) specializes in practical laser research and is regarded in its field as something of a "think tank." Time and time again, showcase projects and new startups have had their origin here, arising for the most part from close partnerships with the University of Göttingen, the Max Planck Institutes and HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts as well as both regional companies and global players. As of 1 December 2008, Professor Wolfgang Viöl replaced Professor Gerd Marowsky as CEO of LLG.

Wolfgang Viöl, professor at the HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Göttingen since 1994, is exactly the right person to head up LLG. With his courage in tackling important issues and his outgoing, communicative nature, he has always been one to take the broader view. The Optolines editorial staff recently spoke with the 49-year-old physicist about his plans for LLG.

Professor Viöl, where does LLG currently stand, and how can it be integrated in today`s optics industry?

Professor Gerd Marowsky accomplished quite a lot during his tenure as head of the institute, and I hope to build on his solid foundation and write new chapters in the LLG success story. I would like to see LLG achieving its full potential. My main focus is on cooperation with research institutes, training centers and businesses. We can accomplish a lot, because we can design and implement our projects from start to finish – from idea to prototype, and all the way to serial manufacture of the end product.

Will you be setting up any new departments?

Yes, the Laser Plasma Hybrid Methods department. This is an area I was involved in at HAWK. Thanks to the high performance of today's lasers, there is still a lot of untapped potential in this field, which will open the door to a range of unique features. With the blending of plasma applications in surface processing, laser apparatus can be used more efficiently. For example, the burn marks once typical for lasers are practically a thing of the past. This method is of particular interest for the fields of biotechnology and medicine.

You emphasize the importance of cooperation. How do cooperative efforts come about?

Generally, in one of two ways: First, I come into contact with a lot of people at various events in science and industry, and gain a good deal of "insider" information. Where highly topical subjects are concerned, particularly in physics, chemistry, biology and medicine, I consider the possibilities for advancing joint projects – whether between LLG and other companies, or just between other companies. I enjoy helping to get things started, especially when it benefits industry in the region.

Second, we get direct inquiries from industry. We consider carefully whether we can deliver the solutions that the companies are looking for and, if so, then we set about designing the project. Happily, this most often leads to very positive partnerships that can last a couple of months or up to two years, just depending on the magnitude of the task at hand.  

How are projects financed?

When companies come to us directly, they usually take on the financing. By outsourcing projects to us, they are free to concentrate on their other business and in the long run, this can even reduce their costs. Then there are also promotional programs. Our contact points for these include, for example, the Lower Saxony Ministry of Science and Culture, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research, and the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology. We now have quite a lot of experience in getting our research applications through quickly and efficiently.

What would you say is special about LLG?

We are no ordinary laser institute. With our extensive knowledge and competence, particularly in the areas of the extreme ultraviolet wavelength range and plasma technology, we can offer user-specific, tailored solutions for research and industry. I want to continue expanding on these advantages. Results should be apparent for the most part within 3 to 5 years. We are also proud of our support for the younger generation: training and continued education are big priorities with us. The best example of this is our partnership with HAWK University of Applied Sciences and Arts, an investment in the future that brings higher returns every year.

Thank you very much for your time, and we wish you every success in your endeavors!  

LINOS has been closely connected with LLG for many years, both as research partners and as suppliers of products and systems.