Andreas Tünnermann is a member of the “Thuringia 2035 Future Commission”
Jena / Erfurt / November 12, 2026
Prof. Andreas Tünnermann, institute director of the Fraunhofer IOF, is a member of the “Thuringia 2035 Future Commission,” which was established by Minister President Mario Voigt. The commission is tasked with developing new ideas and solutions for the future of the Free State of Thuringia. Photonic technologies and their transfer to the economy and society are also a focus of the working groups, which began their work in early November.
Developing visions and solutions for Thuringia’s future: That is the goal of the “Thuringia 2035 Future Commission,” which began its work in early November under Thuringia’s Minister President Mario Voigt and Commission Chair Prof. Dr. Ulrich S. Schubert. Prof. Dr. Andreas Tünnermann, director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF as well as the Institute for Applied Physics at Friedrich Schiller University Jena, is also part of the working group tasked with developing concrete proposals for the future shape of the Free State.
Commenting on his appointment to the commission, Andreas Tünnermann said: “Optics and photonics are cornerstones of technological innovation that raise the profile not only of Jena as a hub for optics but also of Thuringia as a high-tech location both nationally and internationally. At the same time, they provide key solutions to the technological and societal challenges of our time. The strategic advancement of this key technology and its transfer to industry and society is therefore a major driver of economic development in the Free State of Thuringia. I am all the more pleased to be able to actively help shape the future of the Free State through my participation in the commission.”
With his expertise in the field of optics and photonics technologies, Andreas Tünnermann advises the Future Commission on advanced photonics technology and application-oriented cutting-edge research. The commission will also focus on the transfer of research and innovation and its strategic advancement.
In addition to Prof. Tünnermann, the commission includes other prominent figures from Thuringia’s scientific, business, civil society, and public sectors. The representatives will address specific questions regarding the state’s further development—such as how Thuringia can build on its economic strength, leverage new technologies, and promote innovation.
Issues such as quality of life, citizen-centered politics, and social cohesion also play a role within the commission. By September 2027, concrete strategic recommendations for action are to be formulated for the Thuringian government.
Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering IOF