University Presidents Answer Questions About the Ruhr Innovation Lab

On 2 October 2026, it will be announced which new universities or university consortia will receive the Excellence title. In addition to the Ruhr Innovation Lab, ten other universities and consortia are competing for up to five available positions. In the new episode of “Think.Try.Transform.”, the two rectors discuss what comes next for TU Dortmund University and Ruhr University Bochum following the on-site visit. What will happen if the Ruhr Innovation Lab is selected as an Excellence Consortium? And what will happen if the application is not successful?

Under the motto “Ask Us Anything,” the rectors answer questions submitted in advance by members of both universities. In conversation with host Sven-Daniel Gettys, they describe how the on-site visit unfolded, which measures the universities have planned, and how they intend to continue working together until 2 October and beyond. They also emphasize that the Ruhr Innovation Lab is not only about top-level research in an ivory tower, but also about how excellent research can have an impact on society—helping to maintain prosperity, ensure trustworthiness in the digital age, and safeguard democratic values.

To the New Episode