PACE Hub 2026: Strengthening Research Collaboration Between Jordan and Germany

The Technical University of Applied Sciences Würzburg-Schweinfurt (THWS) hosted PACE Hub 2026 on July 1 and 2, a workshop dedicated to strengthening international collaboration in the fields of polymers, advanced composites, and elastomers. The event brought together professors from THWS and the German Jordanian University (GJU), as well as industry representatives from Jordan and Germany.

The workshop focused on identifying common research interests, developing innovative project ideas, exploring funding opportunities, and defining a joint roadmap for future research proposals. Through presentations, interactive workshops, and strategic discussions, participants explored shared challenges and opportunities for collaboration between academia and industry.

Participants also visited THWS laboratories and several industry partners, including TTZ Haßfurt, MAINCOR Rohrsysteme GmbH & Co. KG, and Allod Werkstoff GmbH & Co. KG. These visits provided insights into applied research, advanced manufacturing processes, and current industrial challenges, creating opportunities to connect academic expertise with practical industry needs.

At the same time, THWS Campus GATE Advanced Materials Engineering students from GJU were visiting THWS as part of a student mobility programme. By participating in workshop activities and industry visits, they gained first-hand insights into international collaboration and practical applications in industry. The mobility programme offered a valuable opportunity to connect academic learning with real-world challenges and strengthen links between students, universities, and industry partners.

Reflecting on the workshop, Prof. Dr. Eng. Marcus Schuck from Advanced Materials Engineering highlighted the value of the exchange:

“One step further! The days we spent together helped us better understand the challenges faced by industry in Jordan and Germany, as well as those faced by our two universities, GJU and THWS. Now it is time to put everything on track and turn our ideas into a project!”

PACE Hub 2026 marked another step towards closer cooperation between THWS, GJU, and their industry partners. The discussions and shared experiences laid important groundwork for developing joint research projects and building long-term partnerships that connect academic expertise with industrial needs.

This initiative is supported by the DAAD, which co-funds the two joint degree programmes and part of the Hub activities.