Physics of Life (PoL), along with four other Clusters of Excellence at TU Dresden have been successfully chosen for funding under Germany’s Excellence Strategy from the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG). Three Clusters were renewed from the first funding period (2019–2025), and two additional Clusters are new recipients. This result was determined following a lengthy selection process, with the final decision announced by the Excellence Commission in Bonn on 22nd May. The DFG ultimately selected 70 Clusters of Excellence from 98 proposals under the Excellence Strategy. These Clusters are based at 43 different universities, and will receive total funding of €539 million per year for seven years starting from 1 January 2026. Clusters can receive up to 10 million euros per year from the Federal and State governments to support their research endeavours.
Here is an official statement from PoL Speaker Prof. Otger Campàs:
“The funding of the Cluster of Excellence Physics of Life — PoL for its next phase represents an outstanding opportunity to bring the cutting-edge research at PoL to a new level, with the goal of understanding what brings matter to life. Research at PoL explores the fundamental physical principles underlying the complex organization of living systems, from molecules to cells and tissues. This physical perspective is poised to reshape our understanding of biology—and, consequently, medicine. Going forward, PoL will use its unique perspective and approach to understand key features of living systems, including the emergence of function and robustness. Equally important, PoL will bring innovative teaching strategies to train the next generation of scientists in how to connect the worlds of physics and life sciences. PoL is firmly embedded within the vibrant Dresden research environment, and will continue to strengthen our collaborations with leading partners locally and worldwide.”
To learn more, read the official press release from TU Dresden.