Research at Hochschule Pertha Frankfurt is not merely an academic pursuit; it is the driving force behind innovation, discovery, and societal impact. Rooted in a commitment to applied knowledge and interdisciplinary collaboration, our research endeavours bridge the gap between theoretical exploration and practical solutions. We believe that rigorous research, conducted by our distinguished faculty and aspiring students, is essential for addressing the complex challenges facing our world and for shaping the future of industries, technologies, and creative expression.
Our research culture is characterised by its vibrancy, international outlook, and strong links with industry and professional practice. We foster an environment that encourages intellectual curiosity, risk-taking, and the pursuit of groundbreaking ideas. This is supported by state-of-the-art facilities, extensive library resources, and a network of research partnerships with leading corporations, research institutions, and governmental bodies across Germany and internationally. Our location in Frankfurt, a global hub of finance, technology, and culture, provides unparalleled opportunities for collaborative research that directly impacts regional and global economies.
Key Research Pillars:
Our research activities are primarily concentrated within three strategic pillars, reflecting the core strengths and specialisations of our academic programmes. These pillars are designed to foster synergistic research efforts, leading to interdisciplinary breakthroughs.
1. Applied Sciences & Engineering Innovation Research: This pillar focuses on pushing the boundaries of scientific and engineering knowledge, with a strong emphasis on practical applications and technological advancement. Current research clusters include:
- Intelligent Systems and Data Science: Exploring novel algorithms for machine learning, artificial intelligence, and big data analytics, with applications in autonomous systems, predictive modelling, and smart infrastructure. Faculty research includes explainable AI for complex decision-making, real-time data processing for financial markets, and deep learning for image recognition in industrial automation.
- Sustainable Technologies and Energy Systems: Investigating renewable energy sources, energy efficiency solutions, and environmentally friendly technologies. Research spans advanced battery technologies, smart grid optimisation, carbon capture and utilisation, and sustainable materials development for construction and manufacturing. Projects often involve collaboration with energy companies and environmental agencies to develop scalable and impactful solutions for a greener future.
- Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics: Focusing on the next generation of manufacturing processes, including additive manufacturing (3D printing), advanced robotics, and automation. Research areas include human-robot collaboration in industrial settings, intelligent control systems for flexible manufacturing lines, and the development of novel materials for high-performance applications through advanced fabrication techniques. Our researchers are at the forefront of Industry 4.0 paradigms, enhancing efficiency, precision, and customisation in production.
2. Creative Arts & Digital Design Research: This pillar explores the intersections of art, technology, and human experience, driving innovation in digital media, design methodologies, and creative expression. Key research themes include:
- Interactive Media and Immersive Environments: Investigating the design and impact of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR) experiences. Research includes human-computer interaction in immersive spaces, the development of narrative structures for interactive storytelling, and the application of VR/AR in education, healthcare, and cultural heritage preservation. Our faculty are exploring the psychological effects of immersive technologies and their potential for transformative user experiences.
- Design for Social Impact and Sustainability: Focusing on how design principles can address societal challenges and promote sustainable practices. This includes research into user-centred design for public services, eco-friendly design methodologies for products and systems, and the role of design in fostering community engagement and cultural preservation. Projects often involve collaborations with non-profit organisations and urban planners to create meaningful and impactful design solutions.
- Digital Aesthetics and Computational Creativity: Exploring the theoretical and practical aspects of digital art, generative design, and the use of artificial intelligence in creative processes. Research includes algorithms for automated content generation, the philosophical implications of AI art, and the evolution of visual language in digital cultures. Our researchers are pushing the boundaries of what is possible at the intersection of art, technology, and human perception.
3. Global Business & Management Studies Research: This pillar conducts cutting-edge research into contemporary business challenges, leadership paradigms, and market dynamics, with a strong emphasis on global contexts and ethical considerations. Key research areas include:
- Digital Transformation and Innovation Management: Examining the impact of digital technologies on business models, organisational structures, and strategic decision-making. Research encompasses digital marketing strategies, e-commerce innovations, the adoption of blockchain in supply chains, and the management of digital talent. Our faculty investigate how organisations can effectively navigate and leverage digital disruption.
- International Finance and Sustainable Investing: Focusing on global financial markets, cross-border investment strategies, and the growing field of sustainable and responsible investing (SRI). Research includes fintech innovations, risk management in volatile global markets, the impact of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) factors on corporate performance, and the development of green finance instruments. Our researchers provide insights into building resilient and ethically sound financial systems.
- Strategic Leadership and Organisational Resilience: Investigating effective leadership practices in complex global environments, focusing on organisational change, crisis management, and building resilient enterprises. Research includes cross-cultural leadership, employee engagement in remote work settings, the dynamics of mergers and acquisitions, and the development of adaptive strategies for navigating geopolitical and economic uncertainties. Our faculty contribute to shaping future leadership paradigms that foster sustainable organisational growth.
Hochschule Pertha Frankfurt is committed to disseminating its research findings through peer-reviewed publications, international conferences, and public engagement initiatives. We actively encourage our students to participate in research projects, offering opportunities for undergraduate research assistantships and guiding postgraduate students through their thesis and dissertation work. By fostering a vibrant research ecosystem, we not only advance knowledge but also contribute directly to the innovation and progress of society.