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Life Science in Thuringia - Medical Technology, Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals
Thuringia has always been a leader in the life sciences. The mercury-free thermometer, the X-ray tube, and the microscope were developed here. Today, the use of photonic technologies enables significant advances in the diagnosis and treatment of infections.
Central location in Europe
Successful companies
Location rooted in tradition
Skilled workers and training
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Data and facts
Thuringia has a long tradition in medical technology, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. Its strengths in optics and photonics make Thuringia an international innovation leader in microscopy, laser technology, and ophthalmology. Infection research and aging research have become established in recent years and have gained international significance. Thuringia has also succeeded in attracting cutting-edge research projects, such as the Cluster of Excellence "Balance of the Microverse" (approximately €47 million in funding for infection research) and the "Leibniz Centre for Photonics in Infection Research (LPI)" with a funding volume of €150 million.
Core competencies in the life sciences industry
*Source: LEG Thüringen company and technology database
Justus Felix Wehmer , Chief Financial Officer, Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
"Jena is Thuringia's high-tech and science city, and we want to be an attractive cooperation partner for business and science. For this reason, ZEISS is investing in Jena as a founding location, which is also one of the leading innovation locations for ZEISS Medical Technology."
Dr. Claudia Gärtner CEO microfluidic ChipShop GmbH
"The city of Jena/Thuringia, with its unique ecosystem of research and development, is a perfect fit for our company at the interface between life sciences and precision mechanics."
Industry associations in Thuringia
, medways e. V. has been the industry association for medical technology and biotechnology in Thuringia, connecting manufacturers, universities, and research institutions. Furthermore, medways advises companies in all phases of research, development, and marketing.
The InfectoGnostics research campus is a partnership between science, medicine, and industry. Over 30 partners are jointly developing innovative, cost-effective solutions for the rapid on-site diagnosis of infections and quickly translating research results into practical applications.
In the Thuringian pharmaceutical community, many stakeholders such as companies, universities, research institutions and clinics are committed to the further development of pharmaceutical agents and technologies.
OptoNet eV unites 140 leading players from industry, research, and education in the field of photonics. Together, we are committed to further strengthening Germany's high-tech sector and shaping a sustainable future with innovative light-based technologies.
Thuringian Life Sciences Business Portal (LiST Portal)
One click. Everything at a glance. Discover Thuringia's life sciences with our LiST portal – Life Sciences Thuringia! LiST contains a structured list of around 350 Thuringian stakeholders from industry and science, impressively showcasing the diversity and economic strength of the sector.
Selected companies in Thuringia offer excellent growth opportunities in medical technology, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. Well-known market and technology leaders rely on this location.
Abbott Rapid Diagnostics Jena GmbH
The company was founded by scientists from the Leibniz Institute for Photonic Technologies and the Hans Knöll Institute and focuses on the development and production of in-vitro diagnostics. Since 2017, it has been part of the Abbott Group, one of the world's leading companies in the field of point-of-care solutions.
AEROPHARM GmbH
AEROPHARM is the Sandoz Group's global center for respiratory and ophthalmic medications. At our site in Rudolstadt, Thuringia, approximately 280 employees currently develop, produce, and package 15 million respiratory medications annually, such as asthma sprays and innovative dry powder inhalers. Furthermore, innovative solutions are being developed in the areas of asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).
Analytik Jena GmbH & Co. KG
As a leading global provider of analytical measurement technology, molecular biology instruments, liquid handling and laboratory automation technologies, Analytik Jena enables laboratories worldwide to work quickly and successfully – from routine analyses to specialized tasks in the fields of chemistry, pharmaceuticals, medicine and life sciences, food safety and agriculture, water and wastewater analysis, environmental analysis and much more. The company has been part of the Swiss Endress+Hauser Group since 2013.
Bauerfeind AG
Bauerfeind AG is a leading manufacturer of medical aids such as bandages, orthoses, compression stockings, and orthopedic insoles. Their products, which have received numerous awards for materials and design, make a significant contribution to maintaining and restoring health.
Carl Zeiss Meditec AG
Carl Zeiss Meditec AG's long-term goal is to leave a lasting mark on the fields of ophthalmology and microsurgery. With the ambition to break new ground, the company develops innovative technologies that enable medical professionals, for example, to preserve eyesight into old age and combat brain tumors.
microfluidic ChipShop GmbH
In the field of lab-on-a-chip technologies, microfluidic ChipShop is a world-leading provider of microfluidic chips from a unique catalog as well as customized complete systems consisting of microfluidic components, operating units and associated assays.
Wacker Biotech GmbH
Since 2005, WACKER has been producing high-quality biopharmaceuticals based on microbial systems in Jena. This highly specialized production facility focuses on the contract development and manufacturing of therapeutic proteins. The solutions developed in Jena make a crucial contribution to the treatment of serious diseases such as lymphatic leukemia in children and adolescents.
High-performing companies that impress in Germany, Europe, or worldwide.
Companies in the industry
Companies in the “Life Sciences” sector can be found in our company and technology database.
Discover why Thuringia is a strong location for investment. An overview of current project developments in the region and important dates to know.
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