In view of the current public debate surrounding the endowed professorship in the field of  Space Technology, the University of Bremen wishes to stress its commitment to cooperation with public and private enterprises both within the region and beyond. Without the significant external funding on the part of industry it would be impossible to realize many of the teaching projects and course offerings which contribute to the University’s renown. The cooperation between business and research in innovative fields of development like space technology ensures that students receive a university education of the highest level. It also constitutes a major contribution to the future of the Land of Bremen.

Bremen endowed professorships have established themselves as outstanding examples of cooperation between business and the University, for which the University is extremely grateful. This also applies to the OHB professorship “Space Technology”. All the University’s competent bodies have voted in favor of establishing the professorship. In the Academic Council, the most important body in the self-administration of the University,  the goals pursued by the professorship and its focus on fundamental space research have been discussed at length and met with widespread approval.

The Office of the President strongly advocates ongoing debate within the University on the social significance of research and education as well as the responsibility borne by research scientists. However, in view of the major changes to the overall geopolitical situation which have taken place since the 1980s, within this framework it perceives a need to update the so-called “civil clause”. An accordant debate has been going on for some time now. The University of Bremen will now take the initiative and act with social responsibility to seek a modification to the clause.