About Us
As the result of a unique competition, two new large-scale research centers will be established in Lusatia in Saxony and the Central German mining region over the next few years - one of which is the DZA.
With the DZA, we are building a research center with a forward-looking scientific programme: a center for digitisation that brings together the data streams of astronomical observatories around the globe, and a center for the latest technologies that cooperates closely with industry and technology centers in Saxony and worldwide.
The DZA is funded by the BMBF and the Free State of Saxony. It contributes to structural change in the traditional lignite mining areas and also opens up new economic prospects for the region.
- Joint initiative of German astronomy and astroparticle physics.
- 2 locations: Görlitz and between Hoyerswerda, Kamenz and Bautzen
- More than 350 scientific, 350 technical and 200 administrative positions and 100 training positions directly at the DZA
- Training and further education from nursery school to management positions
- International data center for astrophysics
- Low Seismic Lab: an underground laboratory 200 metres deep in the granite of Lusatia
- Possible location for the Einstein Telescope
People
At the DZA, we develop new technologies and drive innovation. We are researchers, former civil engineers and media technicians. We are supported by a strong network of partners from science, industry and society.
Change and the Universe
Astrophysics today is a high-tech science with great innovative power. It faces major challenges in data processing, computing, and technology development - with great potential for science, business, and the digital transformation.
Modern transfer has been organised at the DZA from the very beginning; in addition to the classic, linear transfer, a solution-oriented transfer is also organised. One pillar of the DZA's transfer concept is the early, close cooperation with industry, universities, and non-university research institutions, in which new technologies are developed jointly in a network.
Not being restricted to one thematic focus is a strength of the DZA that guarantees long-term relevance. We count on a broad network of transfer partners, ranging from small and medium-sized enterprises to the largest chip manufacturer in the region.
Astronomy has always shaped our understanding of the world and life on Earth. It was and is a driver of progress.
Sites
In addition to Görlitz as the main location for the DZA, an underground research laboratory is being built in the granite of Lusatia: the Low Seismic Lab.
New Momentum, New Jobs
As an international beacon with a large existing network, the DZA will attract many people. We offer excellent research programmes, attractive and secure jobs in many areas. Our portfolio is diverse - we offer jobs in science, but even more in non-scientific areas, from technology, design, materials processing, electronics, surveying, mechanical engineering to accounting, purchasing, and secretarial services.
Many examples show: Astronomical research is changing regions in the long term. The DZA will also act as a job engine. With its unique combination of research and development in IT, sensor technology, and materials research and its need for production facilities, the center will provide economic momentum.