Research & Transfer

Sustainability Transfer as a Scientific Concept

At HNEE, we define “sustainability transfer” as all activities that connect the university with external partners and aim to contribute to sustainable development in society. These activities are characterised by clearly defined sustainability objectives and an explanation of the intended impact on sustainable development.

The outcomes of sustainability transfer are:

1. contributions to sustainable development, such as models, projects, technologies, concepts, solutions, trials or discussions on sustainability
2. the strengthening of core competencies for sustainable development through shared learning processes involving all participants.

The [Sustainability – Transformation – Transfer] Research Centre demonstrates how sustainability can be mapped and made visible at HNEE.

Knowledge Transfer and Collaboration with Society

The university’s InnoSupport Research | Start-ups | Transfer unit is the first point of contact for anyone interested in collaborating with HNEE. Together, partners can develop and implement research projects and knowledge transfer activities.

The Schwedt | Uckermark Regional Office also provides a local point of contact for partners in the Uckermark region.

Research and Innovation for a Sustainable Future

We are actively involved in a wide range of research projects addressing the environmental, social and technological challenges of our time. Our work focuses on applied research that delivers tangible benefits for society. Our research spans a broad range of topics, from biodiversity and the circular economy to educational innovation and cutting-edge technologies in the timber industry. Our aim is to translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions that help create a liveable and sustainable future.

Our research is supported by a broad network of strategic partners, including renowned research institutions outside the university sector, such as the Max Planck Institute, the Thünen Institute of Forest Ecosystems and the Eberswalde State Centre of Excellence for Forestry. These partnerships foster scientific excellence through close collaboration between partners and promote the practical application and exchange of knowledge.

European and International Research with Real-World Impact

HNEE is an active participant in the international research community. Our work includes numerous projects funded by European programmes and carried out in collaboration with international partner institutions, all with a clear focus on sustainability.

Beyond individual projects, HNEE is actively engaged in international research networks. One example is the ERUKA think tank, where German and Ukrainian researchers work together to develop concepts for Ukraine’s sustainable reconstruction. HNEE also coordinates the EU competence network of Brandenburg’s universities.

Our researchers receive support from the Research Office and the EU Office in developing and implementing their projects.

Brandenburg Graduate School for Applied Sciences

In 2025, the four universities of applied sciences in Brandenburg signed a joint cooperation agreement.

Once it has been granted the right to award doctoral degrees, the Brandenburg Graduate School for Applied Sciences will be able to conduct doctoral procedures independently. The necessary structures and committees are currently being established, with clearly defined procedures and standards designed to ensure the quality of the doctoral process.

Prospective doctoral candidates can already approach professors with strong research profiles to discuss and develop a potential doctoral project at the Brandenburg Graduate School for Applied Sciences.