The latest Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Ranking has recently been released, assessing how universities worldwide contribute to the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Once again, FAU is among the global leaders—and this year’s results are particularly impressive.
For SDG #9 “Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure,” FAU achieved a full score and ranks among just eleven top institutions worldwide. This reflects strong research on industry, innovation and infrastructure, high third-party fundingfrom industry, influential patents, and active support for university spin-offs—driven by initiatives like the Digital Tech Academy, Existency, and the FAU Start-up Office.
FAU also stands out in two more SDGs:
- SDG #12 “Responsible Consumption and Production”: 23rd worldwide, 1st in Germany—thanks to sustainable practices in resource use, waste reduction, and recycling.
- SDG #7 “Affordable and Clean Energy”: 55th globally, 1st in Germany—supported by research at FAU’s “Solar” Profile Center, an ambitious climate strategy, and outreach formats like “Frag den Experten” and “FAU Insights.”
Nationally, FAU also ranks highly in:
- SDG #3 Health and Well-being – 2nd
- SDG #4 Quality Education – 5th
- SDG #11 Sustainable Cities and Communities – 5th
A key foundation for all of these achievements is FAU’s strong research across disciplines. Whether in clean energy, smart materials, healthcare, or education, our researchers develop solutions to real-world challenges—solutions that resonate far beyond academia. This ability to combine cutting-edge science with practical impact is what drives FAU’s standing in the Impact Ranking.
At the Chair of Industrial Management, we are proud to contribute to this success. Through our research on digital industrial platforms, sustainable value chains, sustainable innovation, technology adoption, and the industrial use of AI, we aim to generate real-world impact at the intersection of innovation, sustainability, and industrial transformation. Our collaborations with partners from industry and academia strengthen FAU’s contribution to SDG 9 and beyond—by translating research into actionable knowledge that shapes the future of industrial ecosystems.
Unlike traditional rankings, the THE Impact Ranking highlights how universities contribute to global progress. FAU’s outstanding performance confirms its role as a driving force for innovation and sustainability—regionally, nationally, and globally.
This achievement is more than a reason to celebrate—it’s a call to continue turning knowledge into impact.