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Excellent research with tangible benefits: Minister for Science Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann today honored the winners of the Hugo Junkers Award 2026. The winning research and innovation projects combine outstanding scientific achievements with clear practical applications, opening up new possibilities for health, business and climate protection. At the event in Magdeburg's Jahrtausendturm, these bright minds from science and business also received a total of €80,000 in prize money. 

The state's most generously funded innovation award was presented in four categories: basic research; applied research; innovative products, services and business models; and a special award for projects supporting climate change adaptation. Three prizes were presented in each category. The coveted first places went to: 

• the University of Halle in cooperation with the Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry in Halle (Basic Research category); 
• the University of Magdeburg's STIMULATE Research Campus for medical technology (Applied Research category);
• Laempe Mössner Sinto GmbH (Products, Services & Business Models category);
• the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems (special award for Projects Supporting Climate Change Adaptation). 

Willingmann emphasized: "The award winners impressively demonstrate how excellent research leads to practical solutions that can improve our lives. Particularly in challenging times, developments like these give us confidence and open up new possibilities. Saxony-Anhalt is a state of innovation – at our universities, our non-university research institutions and our companies alike. Innovation requires close cooperation between science and business so that ideas can quickly be put into practice and deliver real benefits for society." 

Willingmann also stressed the importance of academic freedom: "Free science is one of the central foundations of our democratic society. Anyone who seeks to control research and keep researchers on a tight leash should not be surprised when bright minds leave the country and societal progress erodes. That is why we are working to ensure that Saxony-Anhalt remains an attractive, free and internationally open center of science. At our universities, researchers will continue to be able to choose their own research questions and express their findings openly, even when those findings are uncomfortable. We want to continue honoring outstanding achievements with our Hugo Junkers Award in the future." 

The projects honored today demonstrate the capabilities of Saxony-Anhalt as a center of innovation and show that transferring research into practice is becoming an ever stronger focus. This was also recognized by the independent jury, chaired by Prof. Dr. Frieder Stolzenburg, Vice-Rector for Research and Equal Opportunities at Harz University of Applied Sciences. In addition to their high degree of innovation, this year's research projects stood out above all for their strong societal and economic relevance. This clearly shows that innovation mattered in Saxony-Anhalt not only in Hugo Junkers' day: many bright minds today are successfully following in the footsteps of the aviation pioneer from Dessau. 

The winning projects cover a broad spectrum. Some open up new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches in medicine, potentially enabling serious conditions such as Alzheimer's disease and cancer to be detected much earlier and treated more effectively. Others include advanced medical technology for the MRI systems of the future, innovative production processes for the foundry industry and new solutions for more efficient energy storage. Together, they show that research made in Saxony-Anhalt is a force to be reckoned with. For many years, the Hugo Junkers Award for Research and Innovation from Saxony-Anhalt has honored outstanding research and development achievements and shown how innovations from the state can help address key challenges of the future.

HJP 2026 | The Winning Projects at a Glance 

Most Innovative Projects in Basic Research 

• 1st place (€10,000): AI-assisted metabolite fingerprinting to predict the mechanisms of action of new anticancer agents; 
  Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Halle (Saale), and Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg – Institute of Computer Science, Bioinformatics Research Group
  Plants, fungi and bacteria produce many natural substances that influence cell metabolism, potentially causing cell death, making them promising candidates for new cancer drugs. Their pharmaceutical development is hindered, however, by the complex and costly task of determining their mechanisms of action. To assess them at an early stage, the researchers combined targeted metabolomics, which captures characteristic compound fingerprints, with trained machine-learning methods. This allows the mechanisms of new anticancer agents to be predicted quickly and accurately. 
   
• 2nd place (€7,000): Blood beta-synuclein for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and stroke;
  Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, University Hospital, Department of Neurology, and German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) 
  Neurological impairments such as memory loss and paralysis result from the loss of synaptic connections, for example in Alzheimer's disease or stroke. Until now, there have been no early blood markers for synaptic damage. The newly developed method makes it possible for the first time to measure the synaptic protein beta-synuclein in blood. In stroke, its concentration correlates with the extent of damage; in Alzheimer's disease, it rises at very early stages, sometimes years before symptoms appear. The marker therefore enables early diagnosis and supports the development of effective early-stage treatments. The method is patented, and a spin-off company is being established. 
   
• 3rd place (€3,000): Development of a moss photobioreactor to supply propagation material for rewetted peatlands;
  Anhalt University of Applied Sciences – Department of Applied Biosciences and Process Engineering 
  Peatlands store large amounts of carbon but release substantial CO₂ emissions when drained. Rewetting can significantly reduce these emissions, but requires the targeted establishment of peat mosses, for which efficient large-scale supply methods have been lacking. The project team developed a photobioreactor for the controlled, low-cost cultivation and harvesting of peat moss at a technical scale. In addition to restoring peatlands, the high-quality propagation material can provide a sustainable peat substitute for horticulture. This low-cost technology also supports the transition to paludiculture: the agricultural use of wet peatlands.

Most Innovative Projects in Applied Research 

• 1st place (€10,000): Scanatiq – wireless magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) coils;
  STIMULATE Research Campus, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg 
  Scanatiq is a novel coil technology for magnetic resonance imaging that makes medical imaging more efficient and accessible. The coil is placed directly on the body and is crucial to signal reception and image quality. Scanatiq coils are compact, flexible and, unlike conventional coils, wireless. They can therefore be positioned quickly, simplifying and accelerating workflows while improving patient comfort. The technology is based on patented resonators and delivers high image quality with reduced complexity. It is compatible with existing MRI systems and requires no additional hardware. The aim is to reduce costs and improve access to modern diagnostic imaging. 
   
• 2nd place (€7,000): New cancer therapies through targeted inhibition of RNA-binding proteins; 
  Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, University Medicine Halle, Institute of Molecular Medicine, Institute of Pharmacy 
  Certain RNA-binding proteins, particularly insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 1 (IGF2BP1), occur at elevated levels in cancer cells and promote tumor formation and growth. They therefore offer a promising target for new targeted therapies. Using modern methods, including AI-assisted protein structure analysis, researchers have developed and patented the first compounds specifically targeting IGF2BP1. Preclinical studies in animal models and tumor models closely reflecting patients' tumors show strong therapeutic potential. Further development is being carried out with an international pharmaceutical company. 
   
• 3rd place (€3,000): Thermoplastic Sandwich Moulding Technology; 
  Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS and ThermHex Waben GmbH 
  Thermoplastic Sandwich Moulding Technology enables, for the first time, the automated series production of lightweight, strong sandwich components made from thermoplastic materials. Semi-finished products with a honeycomb core and reinforced outer layers are formed and further processed in very short cycle times. The construction reduces weight by up to 50 percent, lowers material and energy use, and is fully recyclable. The technology therefore offers considerable potential for more sustainable production, particularly in vehicle manufacturing.

Most Innovative Products, Services & Business Models 

• 1st place (€10,000): Innovative 3D printing technology for automated sand core production in the foundry industry;
  Laempe Mössner Sinto GmbH 
  The L3D200 is an industrial sand 3D printer for the foundry industry that fundamentally reorganizes the production of molds and cores. It produces components directly from digital data, without tooling or setup times and with considerable design freedom. Fast, automated processes and integrated quality checks enable precise series production at minute-scale cycle times. The L3D200 combines additive manufacturing with industrial scalability and reduces effort, cost and production complexity. The technology thus helps make foundry processes more efficient, flexible and economical. 
   
• 2nd place (€7,000): Integral chopped carbon fibers for reinforcing ultra-high-performance concrete;
  newcycle GmbH
  CBAR® is a specially treated chopped carbon fiber for use in concrete, strengthening existing structures and significantly extending their service life. Embedded in ultra-high-strength concrete, the material substantially improves mechanical properties, particularly flexural tensile strength. An optimized surface structure allows a high fiber content, producing new material properties. CBAR® enables the sustainable refurbishment of infrastructure such as bridges, parking garages and industrial areas more quickly, with fewer resources and without costly reconstruction. 
   
• 3rd place (€3,000): X-ray collimator system for cancer surgery; 
  RAYDIAX GmbH 
  The X-ray collimator system is a medical technology for precisely controlling X-rays during minimally invasive procedures. It focuses radiation on the relevant surgical area instead of exposing the entire body region, significantly reducing radiation exposure. At its core is the interaction of highly dynamic mechanics, fast aperture control and intelligent image-reconstruction software. The technology improves safety for patients and staff while enabling more efficient procedures and greater treatment capacity.

Special Award: Most Innovative Initiatives and Projects for Climate Change Adaptation 

• 1st place (€10,000): CoSeCats – a scalable, load-flexible catalyst–reactor system for the chemical storage of renewable energy;
  Max Planck Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems, Magdeburg 
  CoSeCats is a scalable catalyst–reactor system for the chemical storage of renewable energy. It is used in Power-to-X plants that convert wind and solar electricity into storable chemical energy carriers. At the heart of the technology is a core–shell catalyst that precisely regulates mass transfer and temperature in the reactor and prevents overheating. This enables plants to operate stably and efficiently even under fluctuating loads. Digital models support process control and optimize operation. 
   
• 2nd place (€7,000): Energy-efficient, low-CO₂ contract granulation and drying from Saxony-Anhalt;
  IPT Pergande GmbH
  Energy-efficient, low-CO₂ contract granulation and drying is an integrated production concept for the chemical process industry. It combines granulation and drying with intelligent waste-heat recovery, allowing energy to be used several times. Linking heat sources and heat sinks across the site significantly reduces energy demand and emissions while making processes more stable and economical. The technology enables resource-efficient manufacturing of chemical products and helps reduce fossil energy use and improve the climate footprint of industrial production. 
   
• 3rd place (€3,000): Regional production of building materials from industrial hemp;
  Hanffaser Geiseltal eG
  Regional production of building materials from industrial hemp offers a sustainable approach for the construction industry. Locally sourced hemp straw is processed into technical fibers that form the basis of bio-based building materials. These materials require no pollutant-intensive additives, use less energy in production and are recyclable. At the same time, the model strengthens regional value chains from agriculture to manufacturing and provides a resource-efficient alternative to conventional building materials.

For updates and a look behind the scenes of the competition, visit the LinkedIn Showcase Page: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hugo-junkers-preis-für-forschung-und-innovation.

Prof. Dr. Frieder Stolzenburg is among those who know who will receive an HJP on June 11 at the Jahrtausendturm in Magdeburg. This year, he chaired the jury for the first time. His assessment of the decision-making process: "It was not easy, because the quality of the applications was consistently impressive and the range of topics extremely diverse. The two-stage assessment process, in which each jury member first drew up their own ranking for the four award categories, proved very helpful. Even so, the final discussion often came down to a very close contest."

The excitement now continues until the award ceremony. Video filming, preparation of the competition brochure and, of course, planning the final event are all on the agenda. Stolzenburg's advice to finalists while they wait: "Use the time to keep developing your research, your company or your product. That is how Saxony-Anhalt remains innovative and well prepared for the challenges of our time." 

The schedule was tight and the excitement tangible when the Hugo Junkers Award (HJP) jury met on November 11 for its final session before the awards were presented. Once again, the headquarters of the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina in Halle (Saale) provided a fitting setting for the current finalists' live pitches.

Each team had 15 minutes to convince the jurors that its entry was not merely a contender, but deserved a place among the winners. Some participants traveled particularly far for the opportunity. "I flew in from the USA yesterday specifically to give this pitch," said Dr.-Ing. Ronny Tobias Zimmermann. For him, the HJP was a unique opportunity he wanted to seize. 

First-Time Entrants and Returning Participants 

Zimmermann and his team from the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems are entering the competition for the first time. They applied in the climate change special category with a catalyst concept that enables the flexible use of renewable energy under varying loads. "Our idea began on a computer and was developed over five to six years. It is now close to industrial application," the researcher explained. "Through the award, we hope to gain the publicity needed to find a partner to put it into practice." 

For other participants, including Prof. Dr.-Ing. Ayoub Al-Hamadi, this was not a first appearance. The current Head of Neuro-Information Technology won the HJP in the Applied Research category in 2014. Why enter again? "There is now considerable evidence showing how relevant the results of our RoboSensation project already are. That is exactly why we wanted to seize the opportunity and apply again," Al-Hamadi said after his pitch. 

Making Research Visible 

He believes the HJP creates significant visibility in Saxony-Anhalt. "For science, it is essential to use every available channel, whether to attract the next generation of researchers or to find industry partners. Research awards are an important way to do this, because they make scientific achievements accessible to a wider audience and generate public recognition." 

Regional Innovation and Sustainable Value Creation in Saxony-Anhalt 

Ria Elstner and Dr.-Ing. Susanne Bartholomé from Hanffaser Geiseltalsee eG are also counting on this effect. They are currently establishing a hemp building-materials production facility in Mücheln on Lake Geiseltal. "We are creating a value chain in southern Saxony-Anhalt that benefits farmers and opens up new business opportunities for agricultural service providers," said Ria Elstner. Their special production process optimizes fiber extraction from the plant, securing an existing product range while creating considerable scope for further innovation. "And all of this uses raw materials without added polymers or plastics," the engineer added. 

Applying for the HJP was not an automatic decision for the team, however. "I do have a critical view of competitions," said Susanne Bartholomé. It is always a question of effort and benefit, particularly when building a business. "But as a young company, it is also important for us to reach a different audience that we could not reach on our own. The HJP gives us an entirely new platform." For her, making it to the final was already a success. 

The Jury's Verdict: High Quality and Closely Contested Decisions 

Prof. Dr. Frieder Stolzenburg is among those who know who will ultimately receive an HJP. This year, he chaired the jury for the first time. His assessment of the decision-making process: "It was not easy, because the quality of the applications was consistently impressive and the range of topics extremely diverse. The two-stage assessment process, in which each jury member first drew up their own ranking for the four award categories, proved very helpful. Even so, the final discussion often came down to a very close contest." 

The excitement now continues until the award ceremony in June 2026. Video filming, preparation of the competition brochure and, of course, planning the final event are all on the agenda. Stolzenburg's advice to finalists while they wait: "Use the time to keep developing your research, your company or your product. That is how Saxony-Anhalt remains innovative and well prepared for the challenges of our time." 

Picking the right "6 out of 49" in the lottery means hitting the jackpot. In Saxony-Anhalt's innovation community, "20 out of 74" is now a reason to celebrate. At its meeting on September 4, 2025, the jury selected 20 nominees from 74 applications. The opening round was also a successful first test for the new jury chair, Prof. Dr. Frieder Stolzenburg. The Vice-Rector for Research and Equal Opportunities at Harz University of Applied Sciences has taken over from Prof. Julia Arlinghaus, the former Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF in Magdeburg, who was appointed to the University of St. Gallen in the summer.

The 20 nominees will present their ideas in person to the jury on November 11, 2025, when the finalists will be selected. The winners of the Hugo Junkers Award for Research and Innovation from Saxony-Anhalt will receive their awards from Minister for Science Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann in Magdeburg on June 11, 2026. He says: "In Saxony-Anhalt, ideas learn to fly. I am already looking forward to seeing the exciting projects with which the winners will follow in the footsteps of Dessau's aviation pioneer Hugo Junkers."

The state's most generously funded innovation award was established in 1998, is currently presented every two years and offers €80,000 in prize money. Its four categories honor forward-looking basic research projects, outstanding applied research, innovative products, services and business models, and pioneering initiatives for climate change adaptation.

The Nominees:

Most Innovative Projects in Basic Research

• "Rapid, highly specific diagnosis of viruses and bacteria using mass spectrometry with automated sample preparation";
  Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg
• "Kinetochore manipulation and heat stress to produce haploid plants";
  Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben
• "AI-assisted metabolite fingerprinting to predict the mechanisms of action of new anticancer agents";
  Leibniz Institute of Plant Biochemistry, Halle (Saale)
• "Development of a moss photobioreactor to supply propagation material for rewetted peatlands";
  Anhalt University of Applied Sciences
• "Blood beta-synuclein for the early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease and stroke";
  Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg

Most Innovative Projects in Applied Research

• "New cancer therapies through targeted inhibition of RNA-binding proteins";
  Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg
• "Thermoplastic Sandwich Moulding Technology";
  Fraunhofer Institute for Microstructure of Materials and Systems IMWS, Halle (Saale)
• "Cochlear implant simulations: making electrical stimulation audible";
  University Medicine Halle (Saale)
• "Scanatiq" wireless magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) coils;
  Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, STIMULATE Research Campus
• "RoboSensation" multimodal AI for recognizing speech, facial expressions, gestures and vital signs;
  Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg   

Most Innovative Products, Services and Business Models

• "X-ray collimator system for cancer surgery";
  RAYDIAX GmbH, Magdeburg
• "Innovative 3D printing technology for automated sand core production in the foundry industry";
  Laempe Mössner Sinto GmbH, Meitzendorf, Barleben
• "Digital booking system for universities";
  UniNow GmbH, Magdeburg
• "Integral chopped carbon fibers for reinforcing ultra-high-performance concrete";
  newcycle GmbH, Sangerhausen
• "ScanExpress – mobile industrial CT system for non-destructive component testing";
  Microvista GmbH, Blankenburg

Special Award: Most Innovative Initiatives and Projects for Climate Change Adaptation

• "Regional production of building materials from industrial hemp";
  Hanffaser Geiseltal eG, Mücheln
• "Biodiversity-friendly agrivoltaic installation";
  Anhalt University of Applied Sciences
• "Energy-efficient, low-CO₂ contract granulation and drying from Saxony-Anhalt";
  IPT Pergande GmbH, Weißandt-Gölzau, Südliches Anhalt
• "BIOTUBES – living materials made from fungi, bacteria and algae grow directly into complex 3D structures";
  Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design Halle
• "CoSeCats – a scalable, load-flexible catalyst–reactor system for the chemical storage of renewable energy";
  Max Planck Institute for Dynamics of Complex Technical Systems

Updates and a look behind the scenes of the competition are also available on the LinkedIn Showcase Page: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hugo-junkers-preis-für-forschung-und-innovation.

Innovative minds from Saxony-Anhalt had until June 30 to apply for the prestigious Hugo Junkers Award 2025, and we are delighted: numerous strong, bold and forward-looking applications have been received in all four award categories!
Now the jury's careful work begins. Every application will be thoroughly assessed against defined criteria.
On September 4, 2025, the jury will meet in Magdeburg to select the nominees. They will then present their projects, companies and innovations in a live pitch on November 11, 2025.

We thank all applicants for their trust, their innovative spirit and their contribution to the future of Saxony-Anhalt!
Stay tuned – we will keep you updated!

#HugoJunkersPreis #HJP2025 #Innovation #Wissenschaft #Gründung #Technologietransfer #moderndenken

We know that applying for the most generously funded innovation award requires careful preparation and considerable time.
Having received many questions about applications and the next steps, we want to give everyone interested the time they need to submit their very best application.

We have therefore decided to extend the application deadline to June 30, 2025!

This is your chance to put your groundbreaking ideas in the spotlight. Use the extra time to perfect your application and inspire tomorrow's world with your innovation!

Who can take part?
Individuals, founders, entrepreneurs and researchers at universities and research institutions with a registered office or place of business in Saxony-Anhalt are eligible if they can demonstrate that they have developed innovative products, processes, services and/or business models. The research and development work must have been carried out predominantly in Saxony-Anhalt. Additional requirements apply to individual categories.
In all categories, collaboration partners from outside the state may have been or may still be involved in the innovation process. However, the majority of the innovation, research and/or commercial exploitation must take place within Saxony-Anhalt.

You can find all information about the Hugo Junkers Award and how to take part on this website.

"Innovation has many faces in Saxony-Anhalt. Pioneering ideas can be found throughout our state, from science and industry to the skilled trades. Anyone who wants to give their groundbreaking development or invention a major platform with little effort should act now," emphasizes Minister for Science Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann. "Bright minds have only until the end of February to apply for the Hugo Junkers Award 2025. This coveted research award is our showcase for innovations made in Saxony-Anhalt – and offers €80,000 in prize money on top. So an application can pay off in more ways than one."

Pioneering research projects and creative business ideas are sought in four categories. They span basic research, applied research, and innovative products, services and business models, alongside a special award for particularly innovative initiatives and projects for climate change adaptation.

Applications are open until February 28, 2025, with the award ceremony planned for late June 2025. 

All information about the Hugo Junkers Award 2025 and how to take part is available at: www.hugo-junkers-preis.de. 

Updates on science, energy, climate protection and the environment are also available on the ministry's social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, Bluesky, Mastodon and X (formerly Twitter). 

Great things can grow from an innovative idea. Aviation pioneer Hugo Junkers from Dessau demonstrated this more than 100 years ago. Today, many bright minds in Saxony-Anhalt are also working on forward-looking innovations. To bring their developments into the spotlight they deserve, they can now apply for the Hugo Junkers Award 2025. Minister for Science Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann opened applications for the research award at Solar Materials in Magdeburg this Monday. The cleantech start-up was successful in the 2023 competition with an innovative recycling solution for old solar modules. 

"Saxony-Anhalt has strengthened its capacity for innovation in recent years through closer connections between science and business. With the Hugo Junkers Award, we want to recognize those whose ideas and developments make our state even better in challenging times," Willingmann explained. "In 2025, we will therefore also present the special award for the most innovative initiatives and projects for adapting to climate change. We cannot close our eyes to the fact that the climate is changing here in Saxony-Anhalt too. Our weather is becoming increasingly extreme, with heat, drought, heavy rainfall and flooding. We are relying on the innovative strength of science and business to prepare our state for the future in the face of these challenges." 

The Hugo Junkers Award 2025 offers a total of €80,000 in prize money. Applications are open until February 28, 2025, with the award ceremony planned for late June 2025. Pioneering research projects and creative business ideas are sought in four categories, spanning basic research, applied research, and innovative products, services and business models. This year's special award is aimed at the most innovative initiatives and projects for climate change adaptation. Winners will be selected by a distinguished jury chaired by Prof. Dr. Julia C. Arlinghaus, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF in Magdeburg. 

The Solar Materials team experienced what it means to be in the Hugo Junkers Award spotlight last year. The Magdeburg cleantech start-up developed a recycling solution for old solar modules and took second place in the then-special category Energy and Environmental Research. "Just three years after its foundation, Solar Materials is already the global technology leader and demonstrates that economically viable, sustainable recycling of solar modules is possible," explained Managing Director Jan-Philipp Mai. The start-up has further ambitious plans: "With the aim of transforming the solar industry into a circular economy, we are currently building our first industrial recycling line. Next year, this will increase our recycling capacity to 10,000 metric tons, or half a million modules per year." Minister Willingmann sees great potential in the company from the state capital: "Solar Materials is an excellent example of how innovative solutions from Saxony-Anhalt can help successfully address challenges such as the energy transition." 

All information about the Hugo Junkers Award 2025 and how to take part is available at: www.hugo-junkers-preis.de. 

Updates on science, energy, climate protection and the environment are also available on the ministry's social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Threads, Bluesky, Mastodon and X (formerly Twitter). 

The Hugo Junkers Award 2023 ceremony took place on June 7, 2023 at the Schloss Köthen/Anhalt event center. Which of Saxony-Anhalt's bright minds were beaming alongside their trophies? Who attended the event, and what was the verdict of the award's patron, Minister for Science Professor Armin Willingmann? The highlights film from this year's competition finale has all the answers.

Watch the Film (German)

Minister presents the state's most generously funded innovation award

The universities of Magdeburg and Halle are the big winners in this year's Hugo Junkers Award competition. They took first place in three of the four categories, as well as several second and third places. The special category Energy and Environmental Research was won by a young photovoltaic company from Kabelsketal in the Saalekreis district.

Minister for Science Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann honored the winners today in Köthen, in the Anhalt-Bitterfeld district, and presented a total of €80,000 in prize money. He said: "Saxony-Anhalt is committed to innovation. The Hugo Junkers Award impressively demonstrates that bright minds from science, industry and the skilled trades are shaping the future with great ideas here in our state. These pioneers and people who make things happen would surely have inspired Dessau's aviation pioneer Hugo Junkers too. That makes it all the more important to use the innovation award to bring these people and their outstanding achievements out of laboratories and offices and into the spotlight they deserve."

The Hugo Junkers Award was presented in four categories: basic research; applied research; innovative products, services and business models; and this year's special award for projects in energy and environmental research. The distinguished jury, chaired by Prof. Dr. Julia Arlinghaus, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF in Magdeburg, faced a difficult choice in selecting the top three entries in each of the four categories from 60 applications. Alongside a high degree of innovation, the environmental and social relevance of the creative products, pioneering research projects and innovative business ideas made in Saxony-Anhalt was decisive.

Photos from the award ceremony will be available to download from Thursday, June 8 at 1:00 p.m. here: https://lsaurl.de/HJP23Fotos.
 

The winning projects at a glance:

Most Innovative Projects in Basic Research

• 1st place (€10,000): Hydrogel-forming nanofibers – a new option for ocular drug delivery;
  Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg – Institute of Pharmacy / Department of Ophthalmology
  Almost everyone has used eye drops or ointments. The problem is that their active ingredients are often poorly absorbed or quickly broken down. The solution comes from Halle, where novel electrospun nonwoven materials have been developed. After application to the eye, they quickly dissolve and form a hydrogel, allowing active ingredients to remain effective for longer and to be fully absorbed into the tear fluid. This makes treatment more efficient and reduces the number of applications. Further advantages over conventional eye drops and ointments include improved storage stability and tolerability.
• 2nd place (€7,000): Novel biocompatible Ta-Nb-Ti multicomponent alloy with antibacterial properties for biomedical applications;
  Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg – Chair of High-Temperature Materials / Experimental Orthopedics
  As life expectancy and the number of implant procedures increase, so does demand for particularly durable and biocompatible implant materials. This project developed a novel multicomponent alloy combining antibacterial behavior with outstanding biomechanical properties.
• 3rd place (€3,000): Endogenous retroviruses as targets for new therapies for neurological diseases;
  University Hospital Halle (Saale) – Department of Neurology – Department of Pediatrics I / Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI
  The project aims to develop new treatments for neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis. It investigated the extent to which human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) may contribute to the development of these diseases. HERVs are viruses whose genetic information became integrated into the human genome during evolution.
   

Most Innovative Projects in Applied Research

• 1st place (€10,000): µRIGS – Micropositioning Robotics for Image-Guided Surgery;
  Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg – STIMULATE Research Campus
  The globally novel µRIGS system supports surgical teams during minimally invasive, image-guided procedures. The innovative device positions specialized medical tools relative to a patient inside an MRI scanner. Its compact design, partial automation and remote control make it significantly easier to perform minimally invasive procedures with reduced strain on patients, despite the limited space in the narrow MRI bore. The increasing number of cancer cases gives the patented µRIGS system additional importance.
• 2nd place (€7,000): Pro-Kran-Assist: Intelligent Process Monitoring for Crane Automation;
  Kranbau Köthen GmbH / Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF
  The newly developed, laser-based 3D crane assistant helps operators pick up and set down loads without contact or wear. Using cameras, the system creates a three-dimensional image of the crane's working area and displays the results as a VR model on a monitor.
• 3rd place (€3,000): In-Situ Electrical Analyser – a high-resolution analysis tool for semiconductor technologies;
  point electronic GmbH (Halle (Saale)) / CEA-Leti, Minatec (Grenoble)
  Semiconductors underpin technological progress and are becoming ever smaller. Continued miniaturization, however, makes faults harder to detect. For the first time worldwide, this project enables electrical fault analysis of semiconductors at sub-nanometer scale using extremely powerful transmission electron microscopes. To put that resolution into perspective, it would be like checking from the moon which lamp is switched on in Halle's market square.
   

Most Innovative Products, Services and Business Models

• 1st place (€10,000): Simple, scalable synthesis of plant-based cholesterol to GMP standards;
  Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg – Faculty of Process and Systems Engineering – Institute of Chemistry
  Cholesterol is an essential component of modern mRNA vaccines and is currently produced industrially mainly from animal sources. Thanks to the University of Magdeburg, that could change: chemists have developed an innovative process for synthesizing pharmaceutical cholesterol from plant-based raw materials. It enables the production of the large quantities needed for industrial mRNA vaccine manufacturing. Working with a pharmaceutical company, the laboratory synthesis was scaled up to an industrial process, and the finished product has already been marketed and distributed worldwide.
• 2nd place (€7,000): The digital student ID;
  UniNow GmbH (Magdeburg)
  The digital student ID makes life easier for universities and students. Available directly in the UniNow app, it displays details such as name, date of birth, student number and validity, and connects to the university's campus management system. The ID can be expanded with additional modules, conserves resources, protects against forgery, is accessible and complies with data protection requirements.
• 3rd place (€3,000): Maximum shelf life and natural ingredients for flavored water;
  DIE FRISCHEMANUFAKTUR GmbH (Halle (Saale))
  Infused water is already popular at home: simply add herbs and pieces of fruit to water to make a refreshing, low-calorie drink without added sugar or artificial flavors. Until now, however, it had not reached retail shelves, mainly because of complex production and a short shelf life. These problems have now been solved. The Halle start-up has developed a unique, patented production process that keeps infused water fresh for up to 16 weeks, making it suitable for sale in supermarkets, airports and bakery chains.
   

Special Award: Most Innovative Projects in Energy and Environmental Research

• 1st place (€10,000): LECO – high-throughput equipment for improving solar cell efficiency;
  CE Cell Engineering GmbH (Kabelsketal)
  The company has developed a process to improve the performance of crystalline silicon solar cells. LECO (Laser Enhanced Contact Optimization) improves metal–semiconductor contacts, enabling greater cell efficiency at manageable cost. Photovoltaic institutes have confirmed its effectiveness, and it is already being used in solar cell manufacturing.
• 2nd place (€7,000): Recycling process for crystalline solar modules;
  SOLAR MATERIALS GmbH (Magdeburg)
  This innovative recycling process closes the raw-material loop in photovoltaics, improving the resource efficiency and carbon footprint of solar modules. Its distinctive feature is that it is the world's first process capable of recovering every raw material, from glass, aluminum and plastics to silicon, copper and silver.
• 3rd place (€3,000): Nanolope buffer storage for surplus heat;
  Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg – Institute of Chemistry
  The newly developed Nanolope material can store considerably more energy than conventional building materials such as concrete or gypsum. Its key feature is the combination of a material that stores large amounts of energy as it changes from solid to liquid with a rigid, porous support matrix, allowing the material to remain solid at the macroscopic level. A novel hot-water storage system based on Nanolope has already been developed that can store surplus heat or electricity for several months.

For updates and a look behind the scenes of the competition, visit the LinkedIn Showcase Page: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hugo-junkers-preis-für-forschung-und-innovation.
 

Note to Editors:
If you would like to report on the region's remarkable ideas in connection with the competition, we would be happy to put you in touch with the nominees.
 

Press Contact:
Investitions- und Marketinggesellschaft Sachsen-Anhalt mbH,
Nicole Krüger, Project Manager for Marketing, Culture and Creative Industries
Tel.: +49 391 568 9914
Email: nicole.krueger@img-sachsen-anhalt.de

Updates on science, energy, climate protection and the environment are also available on the ministry's social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Mastodon and Twitter.

Award decisions made at the Leopoldina headquarters in Halle (Saale)

By the end, the jury of the Hugo Junkers Award 2023 had completed eight hours, 19 pitches and plenty of discussion. At the main jury meeting on April 27 at the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina in Halle (Saale), the question was no longer simply who would advance. It was time to decide who would win the 12 prizes across the competition's four categories for research and innovation from Saxony-Anhalt.

After their written applications had been assessed, participants appeared in person before the jury in the Leopoldina's conference hall. Each team had 15 minutes: a ten-minute pitch followed by five minutes answering outstanding questions from the jury, chaired by Prof. Dr. Julia Arlinghaus, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation. A photo shoot and video filming for the Hugo Junkers Award's publicity followed.

The Leopoldina provided a fitting and awe-inspiring setting for the event. Many participants were visiting the headquarters of the world's oldest academy of natural sciences for the first time. It is a striking building with an eventful history, dating from the 17th century and fully restored in keeping with its historic appearance between 2009 and 2011.

"We are delighted that the Hugo Junkers Award was once again able to be a guest at the Leopoldina," says Nicole Krüger from the Investment and Marketing Corporation of Saxony-Anhalt, which organizes the competition together with Univations GmbH. "It is an ideal setting for our applicants." The main jury meeting had been demanding, she added, but concentrated, focused work enabled the panel to reach agreement.

Which talented teams have cause to celebrate will be revealed on June 7 at the Hugo Junkers Award 2023 ceremony.

Jury selects 19 potential award winners from 60 applications

Innovation meets societal benefit: 
Nominees for the Hugo Junkers Award announced

And the nominees are… Many people probably associate these opening words with the annual Oscars ceremony in Los Angeles. But this legendary introduction is also regularly heard in Saxony-Anhalt. Here it refers not to the world's most important film award, but to the state's most generously funded innovation prize: the HUGO JUNKERS AWARD for Research and Innovation from Saxony-Anhalt. Established by the state in 1998, it is currently presented every two years and offers €80,000 in prize money.

This week, the distinguished jury, chaired by Prof. Dr. Julia Arlinghaus, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF in Magdeburg, selected 19 nominees in four categories from 60 applications. Alongside the high degree of innovation, societal benefit was a decisive factor. Arlinghaus said: "This year, we discussed in considerable depth our intention to honor innovations that also have environmental and social relevance."

The 19 nominees will present their ideas in person to the jury at the Leopoldina in Halle (Saale) at the end of April. The finalists will then be selected. The winners of the HUGO JUNKERS AWARD will receive their awards from Minister for Science Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann at Köthen Castle on June 7, 2023. He said: "I am already very much looking forward to meeting the visionaries and people who make things happen, who want to follow in the footsteps of Dessau's aviation pioneer Hugo Junkers."
 

And the nominees are:

Most Innovative Projects in Basic Research

• "Hydrogel-forming nanofibers – a new option for ocular drug delivery"; Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg
• "Wearable, long-lasting personal insect protection made from 3D-printed biodegradable plastic"; Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg
• "Novel biocompatible Ta-Nb-Ti multicomponent alloy with antibacterial properties for biomedical applications"; Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg
• "Endogenous retroviruses as targets for new therapies for neurological diseases"; Department of Neurology, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg / Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology
• "Simple, scalable synthesis of plant-based cholesterol to GMP standards"; Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg
   

Most Innovative Projects in Applied Research

• "Inline detection of polyesterimide degradation in electric motors"; Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg
• "µRIGS – Micropositioning Robotics for Image-Guided Surgery"; Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, STIMULATE Research Campus
• "Pro-Kran-Assist: Intelligent Process Monitoring for Crane Automation"; Kranbau Köthen GmbH / Fraunhofer IFF Magdeburg
• "In-Situ Electrical Analyser – a high-resolution analysis tool for semiconductor technologies"; point electronic GmbH
• "Development of a rapid microtesting method for electronic assemblies – MINITEL"; ECH Elektrochemie Halle GmbH / Fraunhofer IMWS Halle (Saale)
   

Most Innovative Products, Services and Business Models

• "Maximum shelf life and natural ingredients for flavored water"; DIE FRISCHEMANUFAKTUR GmbH
• "Novel acid carriers for the animal feed industry"; SAMPOCHEM GmbH
• "The digital student ID"; UniNow GmbH
• "Raydio – reducing barriers through audio"; mycrocast GmbH
   

Special Award: Most Innovative Projects in Energy and Environmental Research

• "Recycling process for crystalline solar modules"; SOLAR MATERIALS GmbH
• "Recycling wind turbine blades / glass fiber-reinforced plastic"; Deutsche Vacuumtrockner GmbH
• "LECO – high-throughput equipment for improving solar cell efficiency"; CE Cell Engineering GmbH
• "Nanolope buffer storage for surplus heat"; Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg / Institute of Chemistry
• "Double-sided facade element for filtering polluted air"; Moosaik UG

For updates and a look behind the scenes of the competition, follow the new LinkedIn Showcase Page: https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/hugo-junkers-preis-für-forschung-und-innovation.
 

Note to Editors:
If you would like to report on the region's remarkable ideas in connection with the competition, we would be happy to put you in touch with the nominees.
 

Press Contact:
Investitions- und Marketinggesellschaft Sachsen-Anhalt mbH,
Nicole Krüger, Project Manager for Marketing, Culture and Creative Industries
Tel.: +49 391 568 9914
Email: nicole.krueger@img-sachsen-anhalt.de

Updates on science, energy, climate protection and the environment are also available on the ministry's social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Mastodon and Twitter.

You can download the press release here as a PDF (German).

… were received by the application deadline. We are delighted by the strong interest in this prestigious innovation award! The pioneering research projects and creative business ideas selected for awards will be announced at the ceremony on June 7, 2023. The competition offers a total of €80,000 in prize money. Visionaries from Saxony-Anhalt can follow in the footsteps of Dessau's aviation pioneer Hugo Junkers in four categories: basic research; applied research; innovative products, services and business models; and this year's special category for projects in energy and environmental research.

View the Instagram Post

The final stretch for the Hugo Junkers Award 2023: bright minds from universities, research institutions and companies have around three more weeks to apply for Saxony-Anhalt's prestigious innovation award. Pioneering research projects and creative business ideas from science, industry and the skilled trades are sought by January 11, 2023. The competition offers a total of €80,000 in prize money, with the award ceremony scheduled for June 7, 2023.

Apply, impress the jury and secure the title and prize money: visionaries from Saxony-Anhalt can follow in the footsteps of Dessau's aviation pioneer Hugo Junkers in four categories, from basic and applied research to innovative products, services and business models, as well as this year's special category for energy and environmental research. Applications can also be submitted directly online. For more information, visit www.hugo-junkers-preis.de.

Minister Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann sees good reasons to apply: "Saxony-Anhalt is innovative. Many inventors, founders and researchers live here whose ideas make our lives better. Yet their innovative work too often remains hidden from the wider public. Applying for – or even winning – the Hugo Junkers Award can change that for the long term. Through this competition, we bring brilliant achievements and the bright minds behind them into the spotlight they deserve. There is time for a quieter, reflective period until Christmas, but afterwards the priority should once again be innovation and applying for the Hugo Junkers Award."

Updates on science, energy, climate protection and the environment are also available on the ministry's social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Mastodon and Twitter.

Total prize money of €80,000 / Applications open until January 11

This would surely have made Hugo Junkers' spirits soar: the aviation pioneer from Dessau once again lends his name to the prestigious state competition for forward-looking innovations from science, industry and the skilled trades. Minister for Science Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann launched the latest Hugo Junkers Award for Research and Innovation from Saxony-Anhalt 2023 today. It offers a total of €80,000 in prize money. Applications are open until January 11, 2023, and the award ceremony is planned for June.

Pioneering research projects and creative business ideas are sought in four categories, spanning basic research, applied research, and innovative products, services and business models. This year's special award is aimed at outstanding projects in energy and environmental research. Winners are selected by a distinguished jury whose members include Prof. Dr. Julia C. Arlinghaus, Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Factory Operation and Automation IFF, as chair, and Prof. Dr. Gerald Haug, President of the German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina.

Willingmann said: "Once again, people in Saxony-Anhalt can follow in the footsteps of an outstanding visionary of the 20th century. Today, too, our state is home to many bright minds in the tradition of Hugo Junkers who want to make our lives better with their ideas. Our innovation award brings these visionaries and people who make things happen in universities, research institutions and companies into the spotlight they deserve. Let us once again show together just how innovative Saxony-Anhalt is. Applying is worthwhile."