Two institutions that do valuable work within the catchment area of this region:           Competence Centre for Microtechnological Materials at Ulm University In numerous projects, this university department (WMtech) develops new, specifically tailored materials for diverse micro-technological applications and also optimises and customises existing materials to meet special requirements.           Max-Planck Institute for Metallographic Research Stuttgart At the Research Institute approx. 500 staff members and students are engaged in fundamental research in the field of material science. The Institute is enterprising in its aim to acquire greater knowledge of the manufacture, structure and properties of substances as the basis for materials of the future. Example: thin-film technology for the IT sector. Find out more at http://www.mf.mpg.de/de/

Scientific institutes, research facilities, transfer centres and vocational institutions have an important function as links between industry, research and qualification. Subsidised in most cases by the county, the federal state, the government, or the EU, such institutes provide valuable services in the fields of applied research and also by transferring of knowledge, experience and ideas. The options range from expert opinions, consultation and participation in professional committees to educational, vocational and advanced training events.             Research and Transfer-Facilities           Forschungsinstitut für Edelmetalle und Metallchemie (FEM) Located in Schwäbisch Gmünd, work at the Institute focuses mainly on surface technology, material sciences, lamination technology and metrology. Inter-disciplinary co-operation involving about 55 scientists, engineers and technicians warrants application-orientated research as well as implementation into operational practice, aimed in particular at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises.         The Steinbeis Transferzentrum Oberflächen- und Umwelttechnik, Werkstoff- und Oberflächenschutzberatung in Aalen provide medium-sized businesses with know-how from research: Surface technology for applications in physical surface engineering, thin- and thick-film technology, in purifying technics, plasma treatment, electronics for surface technology, process development, and material testing.         European Academy of Surface Technology (EAST) in Schwäbisch Gmünd is not just a platform for international sciences and technology, but also an interface between research and practice. European co-operation in surface technology training is intensified here, with seminars and conferences facilitating the interchange of innovations on a national and global scale. EAST provides the industry with assistance in applying for EU research projects, establishing business contacts in EAST member states, and accessing various EU databases.