16.09.2026

Collaboration with the European XFEL Deepened

TU Hamburg Visits the International X-ray Laser Research Facility
Photo: European XFEL
The lead scientist Dr. Ulf Zastrau explains the functioning of the HED instrument (High Energy Density) to Prof. Andreas Timm-Giel and Prof. Irina Smirnova.

The President of the Hamburg University of Technology, Prof. Andreas Timm-Giel, and the Vice President for Research, Prof. Irina Smirnova, were guests at the European XFEL. The visit to the X-ray laser research facility in Schenefeld near Hamburg took place at the invitation of Prof. Thomas Feurer, Chairman of the Management Board of the European XFEL.  

A total of twelve countries are involved in the international research facility – home to the world’s largest X-ray laser. In the 3.4-kilometer-long European XFEL, atomic details of viruses and cells can be made visible using X-ray flashes, three-dimensional images of the nanoscale world can be created, and chemical reactions can be filmed. During their visit, including a tour of the experimental hall, Timm-Giel and Smirnova were able to gain an impression of the impressive facility.  

Already Collaborating in the BlueMat Excellence Cluster  

TU Hamburg and the European XFEL are already working together very successfully, among other things within the framework of the BlueMat: Water-Driven Materials Excellence Cluster. The representatives of both sides have now agreed to deepen the cooperation between the institutions. The planned agreement concerns topics such as conducting further joint research projects, collaboration in teaching and in the support of students, doctoral candidates, and young researchers, as well as mutual access to laboratory and experimental equipment and other facilities.

Four people stand in a modern, bright room with gray floor and black ceiling next to a large technical apparatus on wheels
Photo: European XFEL
The scientific director Dr. Sakura Pascarelli (right) and the scientific director Prof. Dr. Serguei Molodtsov (left) welcome TUHH President Prof. Andreas Timm-Giel and Vice President Prof. Irina Smirnova during the visit to the European XFEL.