© UHH, Göttling
The Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld: A remarkable example of integrated, modern urban and scientific development.
What areas does the site development for the University of Hamburg in Science City cover and what is the highlight of the current development? What challenges need to be overcome when planning a new research building and what does Science City mean for Universität Hamburg, the neighborhood and the city of Hamburg in general?
And finally, a look into the future: the University of Hamburg 2040 in Science City! In this interview, Jan de Wolff (Team Leader Site Development Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld) talks about future research buildings, quality of life in public spaces and the connection between the university and society.
© UHH, Feuerböther
What areas does the location development for the University of Hamburg in Science City cover?
Within the university, it is our task as a team to identify needs together with those involved from the university and to implement them. How are physics, chemistry or parts of biology developing in Science City? Where do we need new or different teaching and learning spaces? And which new laboratories? In this needs analysis, we look at the individual groups. Researchers may have different needs than students. And the strategic goals of the university and the Hamburg Science Authority (BWFGB) must also be implemented as integral components. The actual implementation of the planned construction projects will ultimately be decided by the Hamburg Parliament.
What is currently a highlight in the planning?
In 2024, the development of Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld has made great strides. For the university, the most advanced project is the research building HAFUN for the Quantum Universe Cluster of Excellence and experimental physics. One highlight is that the research building application was very successful in the nationwide competition for research building funds and was the only application nationwide to be classified as "outstanding" in all categories. This is a strong, motivating sign for the development of the University of Hamburg at Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld.
What are the challenges when planning a new research building?
Planning requires a fine balance between specific research requirements and the need for universality and flexibility. Research spaces must be adaptable to meet the changing needs of science and to accommodate different teaching and learning methods. To promote creativity and exchange, communication spaces should be a focus - real encounters between people are crucial for innovative ideas and synergies.
In addition, sustainability and accessibility should be cornerstones of any planning. Our aim should be to create an environment that is both ecologically compatible and inclusive.
The planning of a research building also highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and the need to create spaces that bring scientists together and inspire them. Only in this way can the full potential of research unfold.
What does Science City mean for Universität Hamburg?
The Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld is a remarkable example of integrated, modern urban and scientific development. The project brings together innovative research institutions and companies in an interdisciplinary environment. It not only creates modern learning and working spaces, but also promotes the exchange between science and business. One of the most important campus locations of the University of Hamburg is being developed here. A place where interdisciplinary scientific research, teaching and transfer to society can develop dynamically in an integrated science quarter.
Active involvement in a major urban planning project such as Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld also poses considerable challenges for the University of Hamburg. First of all, the long development periods are often a hurdle. Many years of planning, approval and implementation are necessary to successfully realize the project.
Another aspect is the collaboration with numerous partners, each with their own goals and institutional boundaries. This diversity can be both enriching and complex. At the same time, it offers opportunities for innovation. It is crucial to overcome these boundaries and promote interdisciplinary cooperation in order to exploit the full potential of Science City. This will result in innovative ideas that will benefit the university, the city of Hamburg and its people.
An important goal of science in our society is to create openness and transparency. What does this mean in terms of campus development in Science City?
Promoting openness and transparency in science means strengthening the connection between university and society. It is about overcoming boundaries and thereby breaking down access barriers to education and making clear the importance of science for society.
In concrete terms, this means making public areas at the university in Science City accessible, such as in the campus facilities on Bundesstraße and in Von-Melle-Park. These should offer a graduated access concept that meets safety requirements, while students and society are transparently integrated into the campus.
From an urban planning perspective, what aspects are incorporated into campus planning? What are wishes and ideas, and what needs to be taken into account in day-to-day operations?
The future of university and urban development will be strongly influenced by technological progress and social changes that are embedded in sustainable and biodiverse overall development. Changing forms of teaching and learning are becoming increasingly important, which is why spatial design must be more flexible and adaptable.
When planning the campus of the University of Hamburg, it is crucial that the campus space is designed as part of the city. Aspects such as accessibility, safety and an inviting design must be taken into account in day-to-day operations. In this way, the campus becomes a lively space that meets both the academic and social needs of its users.
It is essential to design sustainable recreational spaces that invite people to learn, work and relax - for example through innovative outdoor furniture and different seating options.
A look into the future: What will Universität Hamburg look like in Science City in 2040?
In 2040, Universität Hamburg will be an important part of a unique, open, sustainable and lively science district in Science City, where innovation, science and business are closely intertwined with neighborhood life. It will be a lively environment offering a variety of housing options, attractive student residences, daycare centers and shopping facilities right next to Hamburg's largest park.
UHH will have modern teaching and learning infrastructure for around 5,500 students and will provide an interdisciplinary research infrastructure for physics, chemistry, parts of biology and digital natural sciences. Campus spaces that invite students to stay, exchange ideas and learn will characterize the campus and create an inviting atmosphere.
© C.F. Møller Architects
HAFUN
The Hamburg Fundamental Interactions Laboratory HAFUN is a special research building at the University of Hamburg. Research groups from the field of "Particle, Astro and Mathematical Physics" are based at HAFUN . This area is one of five key research areas at the University of Excellence Hamburg. The groups based at HAFUN are an integral part of the Cluster of Excellence "Quantum Universe", the MIN Faculty and the Department of Physics.