Dutch University Signs Major Partnership Deal with German Research Institute
Eindhoven, Friday, 20 February 2026.
Eindhoven University of Technology and Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research formalized a four-year collaboration agreement on February 12, 2026, building on nearly 90 joint publications.
Strategic Framework for Expanded Cooperation
The comprehensive partnership agreement provides a structured foundation for multiple collaborative initiatives between the Dutch and German institutions [1]. The framework encompasses collaborative research projects, exchange and training programs for scientists, scientific events including symposia and workshops, and mutual access to infrastructure and research facilities [1][2]. Both institutions are exploring the possibility of dual or joint appointments of researchers, which would further integrate their scientific capabilities [1][2]. An advisory committee comprising representatives from both institutions will oversee the strategic direction and development of the collaboration [1][2]. The partnership includes a built-in evaluation mechanism, with a comprehensive review scheduled for the fourth year to determine whether to continue and expand the collaboration [1][2].
Building on Proven Research Success
The formalized agreement builds upon an already successful track record of collaboration between TU/e, particularly through its Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), and the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research [1][2]. This existing partnership has generated nearly 90 joint scientific publications in recent years and facilitated the completion of several PhD projects [1][2][6]. The collaboration has been strengthened through participation in the Dutch National Growth Fund program Big Chemistry, where both institutions serve as consortium partners and oversee multiple joint PhD and postdoctoral projects [1][2][6]. The partnership’s productivity demonstrates the potential for scaled research output through international academic cooperation in advanced materials science.
European Leadership in Materials Research
The expanded partnership positions both institutions to establish a leading European hub for research into complex molecular systems and advanced materials [1][2][6]. Through this collaboration, TU/e and MPI-P aim to play a pivotal role in Europe’s materials transition while training the next generation of scientists [1][2]. The partnership is designed to strengthen the international position of both the Brainport region in the Netherlands and the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate through close collaboration with academic and industry partners [1][2][6]. TU/e Rector Silvia Lenaerts emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership, stating: ‘Scientific excellence is strengthened by top collaboration. With the Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, we are building on a strong and long-standing partnership within TU/e, particularly through the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems’ [1][2][6].
From Laboratory to Real-World Applications
The collaboration aims to accelerate the translation of fundamental research into practical applications that benefit society [1][2][6]. Mischa Bonn, Managing Director at MPI-P, characterized the partnership progression with notable candor: ‘TU/e and MPI-P have been scientifically ‘dating’ for years; with this agreement, we are finally making it official. Through this marriage, we can move faster from beautiful molecules on paper to materials that actually make a difference in devices and in society’ [1][2][6]. The partnership aligns with TU/e’s institutional plan to consolidate its leading European position in advanced materials research [1][2]. The collaboration occurred within the broader context of TU/e’s recent achievements, including recognition for three professors who were appointed as members of the Royal Holland Society of Sciences on February 17, 2026 [4], and ongoing initiatives like the TU/e Contest 2026, which launched on February 13, 2026, with a record 150 participants [4].