In this interview, we sit down with Dr. Axel Thielmann, the Head of the Department of Emerging Technologies at the Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (ISI). With a passion for innovation that has driven his extensive career in nanotechnology, Dr. Thielmann developed a fascinating perspective on the transformative potential of battery research. In this article, he shares not only the challenges and breakthroughs in his field but also his vision for how these advancements could reshape the industry and policy frameworks.
Hi Axel, can you tell us about your educational background and how it has shaped your career?
I studied Physics at the Friedrich-Alexander University Nuremberg-Erlangen and the University of Cantabria in Spain, where I earned my diploma in 2001. My doctoral research focused on “Co-tunneling Current and Shot Noise in Molecules and Quantum Dots” at the Institute of Nanotechnology and the University of Karlsruhe.
You have held various roles throughout your career. What have been the most significant transitions for you?
After completing my PhD, I worked as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Center for Functional Nanostructures and then transitioned to a Patent Engineer at Dr. Gassner & Partner. This experience in intellectual property was crucial as I moved into research and project management roles at Fraunhofer ISI in 2007, becoming the Head of the Department of Emerging Technologies in 2021.
What are some current research interests you are pursuing?
Currently, my research is focused on energy storage, lightweight construction, and applications in both electro mobility and stationary systems. We utilize a mix of qualitative and quantitative methods to analyze the innovation systems surrounding these technologies.
What are the main focus areas of your department?
Our department concentrates on innovation system analyses and strategic policy recommendations regarding Emerging Technologies, particularly Key Enabling Technologies (KETs) such as nanotechnology, advanced materials, and battery technologies. We also conduct meta-market analyses, roadmapping, and impact assessments to facilitate technology diffusion.
Battery technology seems to be a crucial aspect of your work. Can you elaborate on that?
Indeed, Fraunhofer ISI has been active in battery research for over a decade, particularly focusing on lithium-ion batteries. We continuously monitor alternative battery chemistries and assess their potential for market maturity. Our research spans the entire lifecycle of battery technologies, from R&D to commercialization and end-of-life treatment.
Why do you think the topic of batteries is so interesting?
Well, in the next few years we are facing a huge transition of the energy and mobility system, and this brings along a huge demand for batteries, especially for electric vehicles. And for that we need to re- and upskill personnel and people. This will be a very intensive but also very interesting time!
What does the European Battery Business Club (EBBC) offer in this context?
As we have just indicated, we need to upscale the specialised staff and implement retraining and further training measures, we need to get to scale. And the European Battery Business Club is very unique in this respect as an online concept – it is flexible, it is scalable – and that makes it interesting enough. And if you look at what else is on offer, it’s primarily conferences or certain lectures that are not so flexible. And the EBBC combines all these interesting aspects in an interactive online format and also offers networking possibilities for battery experts.
Looking ahead, what do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities in emerging technologies?
The biggest challenge lies in the rapid pace of technological change and the need for effective policy frameworks to support innovation. However, this also presents an opportunity to leverage these technologies for sustainable development, particularly in energy and mobility sectors.
Thank you, Axel for these insights!
Dr. Thielmann’s dedication to advancing emerging technologies and his extensive expertise provide a glimpse into the future of innovation. As he continues to lead research efforts at Fraunhofer ISI, the impact of his work will undoubtedly shape the landscape of technology for years to come.
If you would like to find out more about Axel and his research work or would like to contact him, please take a look at the following links:
- Axel official contact page at Fraunhofer ISI: Axel Thielmann – Fraunhofer ISI
- More info about Battery research at Fraunhofer ISI: Battery research at Fraunhofer ISI – Fraunhofer ISI
- For all those who would like to see Axel in action, register for the EBBC here: https://www.batterybusinessclub.com/cart/
