Research, work, and live in Hamburg

As one of Europe’s leading science hubs, Hamburg brings together cutting-edge research, global networks, and close collaboration with industry and startups. Researchers from around the world find outstanding opportunities to advance their careers – while enjoying a city that combines international connectivity with an exceptional quality of life.

Here, science, business, and engaged communities work hand in hand to drive innovation and shape the future. Five clusters of excellence, more than 40 renowned research institutions, excellent universities, and a thriving startup scene make Hamburg a leading centre of knowledge and innovation. From digitalisation and life sciences to green technologies and advanced materials – Hamburg is developing solutions for the challenges of tomorrow.

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Hamburg’s science and innovation landscape

Hamburg is one of Europe’s most dynamic knowledge hubs with strong international visibility. Here, universities, research institutions, companies, and startups collaborate across disciplines to drive progress and shape the future. 

The following institutions and initiatives highlight how Hamburg connects research, education, and innovation – creating a place where knowledge grows and discoveries turn into real-world impact.

Desy Research Centre

World-class research

DESY is one of the world’s leading accelerator centres. From fundamental physics to practical applications, new materials, medical procedures, and technological breakthroughs are developed here – shaping progress far beyond Hamburg.

Science City
Hamburg Bahrenfeld

A district characterised by science

Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld brings together cutting-edge research, academic excellence, urban living, and forward-looking development on one visionary campus. DESY, Universität Hamburg, pioneering startups, and innovative urban planning create an environment where science and city life grow hand in hand.

X-ray laser centre European XFEL

Insights into the structure of life

The European XFEL is the most powerful X-ray laser centre in the world. Researchers from across the globe use it to visualise molecular, cellular, and material structures – enabling discoveries that transform science and society.

Cluster of excellence in Hamburg

Research at the highest level

Hamburg is home to five clusters of the federal government's Excellence Strategy - a strong sign of scientific quality. Here, breakthroughs are made in photonics, climate research, mathematics, materials science, and infection research, with global impact.

Universities in Hamburg

Strong in teaching and research

With the University of Hamburg, HAW, TU Hamburg, HafenCity University and private universities such as Bucerius Law School, Hamburg offers a diverse and dynamic university landscape. Over 100,000 students and researchers from all over the world benefit from an excellent academic environment.

Research institutes in Hamburg

Science in great diversity

More than 40 renowned institutes – including Max Planck, Helmholtz, Leibniz, and Fraunhofer – shape Hamburg’s research landscape. Interdisciplinary, international, and closely linked to industry, they drive scientific excellence from basic research to application.

Startup City Hamburg

Turning ideas into impact

In Hamburg, research translates into innovation. With strong transfer structures, targeted support for spin-offs, and platforms such as PIER PLUS or the tecHHub, the city offers ideal conditions for startups and technology-driven ventures.

PIER PLUS

Connecting research and innovation

PIER PLUS is the strategic science platform of the Hamburg Metropolitan Region. Building on the successful DESY–Universität Hamburg partnership, it now unites 23 universities and research institutions. With seed funding, interdisciplinary cooperation, and strong industry links, PIER PLUS transforms excellent research into real-world solutions – strengthening Hamburg as a leading international knowledge hub.

Hamburg combines quality of life and science

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Family-friendly and supportive
A unique advantage for international researchers: in Hamburg, childcare is free of charge. Families benefit from extensive daycare options, flexible school structures, and international schools – making it easier to combine a demanding research career with family life.

Science needs space
Between the River Elbe, parks, and urban neighbourhoods, researchers find not only excellent laboratories but also a home. Hamburg is a cosmopolitan, tolerant city with short distances – from cultural highlights to international schools or a stroll along the Alster.

A living environment that inspires and connects
Green districts, sustainable mobility, and a diverse, international community make Hamburg a place where science and everyday life naturally connect. Here, research thrives in an environment that inspires – and that is exactly what makes Hamburg so special.

An excellent location with quality of life
Hamburg stands out with outstanding infrastructure, diverse funding opportunities, and an inspiring environment shaped by international openness. Whether in cutting-edge labs or agile start-ups – ideas find room to grow, and people find strong networks and connections.

Practical resources for the American community in Hamburg

For researchers and professionals coming from the United States, Hamburg offers not only excellent science and career opportunities, but also a strong international community and dedicated support structures. From welcome services and cultural networks to international schools and professional associations – these resources help you and your family settle in quickly and feel at home in Hamburg.

U.S. Consulate General in Hamburg

Your official point of contact

The U.S. Consulate General in Hamburg provides a wide range of consular services for American citizens and supports U.S.-German relations in Northern Germany. From passports and visas to cultural exchange, it is the first address for official matters.

Hamburg Welcome Center

Support for international professionals

The Hamburg Welcome Center is the city’s central contact point for newcomers. It provides guidance on residence permits, job opportunities, and everyday questions – making the start in Hamburg smooth and straightforward.

The American Club of Hamburg

A meeting place for Americans and friends

Founded in 1956, the American Club of Hamburg offers a vibrant social and professional network. With regular events and a welcoming community, it connects Americans and internationals living in Hamburg.

American Chamber of Commerce Germany (AmCham)

Strengthening transatlantic business

AmCham Germany is Europe’s largest transatlantic business association, supporting trade and investment between the U.S. and Germany. It provides a strong network for companies, professionals, and decision-makers on both sides of the Atlantic.

American Women’s Club of Hamburg

Community and support for women

The American Women’s Club of Hamburg is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization that fosters friendship, cultural exchange, and community involvement. It offers a welcoming network for women of all nationalities living in Hamburg.

International School of Hamburg

Excellence in international education

The International School of Hamburg is Germany’s first and oldest international school. With a diverse community and internationally recognized programs, it provides high-quality education from preschool through grade 12.

Hamburg Invest - your one-stop agency for investment

Two business professionals discussing documents by a riverside with modern buildings in the background.

Always close to your needs
Hamburg Invest supports companies wishing to set up business in the Hamburg economic region with comprehensive, free services - ranging from location consulting and a commercial real estate service to support for investment projects.

Hamburg Invest supports research-based, innovative companies with comprehensive industry services and support, facilitating e.g. networking across business, science and administration. Our industry services provide comprehensive advice for both existing companies and those interested in relocating to Hamburg. Being well networked is the be-all and end-all for successful business. We take you by the hand and provide access to a large number of interest groups, clusters, business organisations and the right experts.

Future Hamburg Talks: Hamburg’s vision for the future

Two people seated in chairs having a discussion about Hamburg's public sector and startup innovation.
Future Hamburg Talks

Future Hamburg Talks meets Paulo Kalkhake, Head of GovTecHH

Startups boost digitisalisation of local government and benefits everyone
Two women seated and discussing the Hamburg Metropolitan Region's future as an energy transition hub.
Future Hamburg Talks

Future Hamburg Talks meets Jenne Wendt, Business Location Development Stade

Giving Hamburg Metropolitan Region cutting edge in renewable energy and green hydrogen
Overhead view of two people seated with text about Hamburg's flagship mobility transition projects and speaker Harry Evers.
Future Hamburg Talks

Future Hamburg Talks meets Harry Evers of New Mobility Solutions

Mobility expert on UITP Summit 2025 and Hamburg as a model of mobility

News from research and science

Five Olympic Rings - bypasses in  background
Research

Do Olympic Games have democratic impact in host country?

Researchers in Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences at University of Hamburg present results
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Hamburg Metropolitan Region

News briefs from Hamburg Metropolitan Region

Awards, investments and innovations across metropolitan region - from Fehmarn to Soltau, Cuxhaven to Schwerin
Scientist working on complex vacuum with cables and metal parts
Research

DESY welcomes 100 global students this summer

Insight into cutting-edge research at DESY's branches as well as career guidance for next generation
Passenger plane with extended landing chassis
Sciences

€3.9 million for high-tech aviation projects in Hamburg

Green Aviation Technologies II scheme funding five projects
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Sustainability

Circular cities - rethinking construction, transport and energy use

What defines a circular city and what best practices are there in Hamburg? Hamburg News spoke to Professor Kerstin Kuchta about valuing resources in future
Cyanotype of toponium - two blue round particles linked by by a spiral
Research

DESY and University of Hamburg find evidence of toponium

New particle turning assumptions about quantum physics upside down
Visualisation of cutting-edge HAFUN building
Research

New research building for Science City

"HAFUN" research centre to be built in Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld. €34 million in joint from the German government
Sunlit iron bridges spanning a canal between historic brick buildings in a cityscape at dusk.
Startups

€50 million for "Impossible Founders"

Grant from federal government "milestone for Hamburg"
People queue outside a building with a Hamburg Innovation Summit banner.
Research

Innovations definitely possible in Hamburg, HHIS finds

3,000 technology geeks flock to Hamburg Innovation Summit - a decision worth millions announced
Symbolbild Universität und Zukunft: Vier junge Menschen spazieren bei Sonnenuntergang am Wasser entlang
Research

Future Prize for TU Hamburg

TUHH scoops Hamburg 2040 Award - three deciding factors
Cutaway illustration of a futuristic underground research facility surrounded by trees and greenery.
Research

Two "nationally significant" projects at DESY

German Ministry of Education and Research paves way for "world's best 4D X-ray microscope" and IceCube-Gen2 particle detector at South Pole
Visualisierung des geplanten Innovationszentrums auf dem Beiersdorf Campus. Ein Backsteinbau mit großen Fenstern und begrüntem Dach, umgeben von Grünflächen
Life Science

Beiersdorf investing €139 million in Hamburg branch

Beiersdorf Campus to add innovation centre - more investments in sustainable skin care

Future Hamburg - platform for science, innovation and talent

Logo with the text "future hamburg" and a stylised red arrow pointing to the right.

Future Hamburg is the gateway to the knowledge metropolis of the next generation

The platform is aimed at anyone who wants to combine science, innovation and entrepreneurial thinking in a liveable, open city. Researchers, start-ups and international talents will find direct access to Hamburg's excellent universities, over 40 renowned research institutions, five clusters of excellence and strong innovation networks such as PIER PLUS, DESY and Science City Hamburg Bahrenfeld.

Future Hamburg networks knowledge, projects and opportunities

The platform bundles location information, future projects, events and funding offers - and makes visible what characterises Hamburg: a modern science location that lives knowledge, welcomes people and offers space for real future solutions.

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