The Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research Dresden – IFW Dresden for short – is a non-university research institute and a member of the Leibniz Association. It conducts modern materials science on a scientific basis, spanning a range from advances in knowledge in the fields of physics and chemistry to the technological preparation of new materials and products.

The research program focuses on functional materials, which play a key role in many fields of application: Superconductors, magnetic materials, layer systems and nanostructures, energy technology as well as crystalline and amorphous materials. In addition, one of the Institute’s tasks is to promote the further training of young scientists and technicians and to make the knowledge gained available to industry.

The IFW Dresden was founded on January 1, 1992 from the former Akademie-Institut as a Blue List institution. It emerged from the largest materials research center in the GDR, which already enjoyed an international reputation at the time. In the meantime, the IFW Dresden has developed into an internationally leading institute in selected areas of science-based materials research.

Tasks of the Institute

• Basic and application-oriented research and development, primarily in the field of materials and substances
• Education and training of young scientists and technicians
• Making the knowledge and experience gained usable for companies in the economy and public institutions
• Cooperation with universities and colleges
• Expert advice for competent authorities