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Transfer at the MNF

We are the central support point for all transfer activities at the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. We support the academics and researchers throughout the innovation journey to generate a greater research impact.

Our vision: Leadership in research and knowledge transfer in natural sciences

Empowering a cross-disciplinary exchange of ideas between science, industry and society, our team provides education, advice and support on the valorization of research, collaboration with industry partners and venture creation.

As your sparring partner, we help identify, prioritize and select knowledge and technology transfer projects in all research fields actively pursued at the faculty.

Would you like to see your research contribute to the development of social or commercial solutions? Let´s discuss over coffee how we can support you (Contact us)

Meet the Transferscouts

Transferscouts

Transferscouts Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences

Transferscouting-FAQs

Who are the services for?

Our services are for everyone studying or working at the University of Cologne.

If you are wondering whether your idea or your research project could have potential for being developed into application, send us an e-Mail and we will schedule a short appointment. We are also happy to inform you about transfer opportunities in general or funding sources in the area of application.

How can the transferscouts support me?

Transferscouts are the first point of contact for all researchers and academics seeking to transfer their research results into applications. With the team at Gateway Excellence Start-up Center of the University of Cologne, Department of Research Management (Abt. 7) and in collaboration with external partners we support the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences in nurturing scientific innovation into commercial and social entrepreneurial opportunities.

We are happy to support you in all aspects of transfer:

•    Assistance in developing transfer projects
•    Funding opportunities
•    Intellectual property
•    Connections to relevant industry and academic partners

When should I contact a transferscout?


As early as possible. As transfer scouts, we are your sparring partner early-on. We help to develop initial ideas into innovative projects or assist in getting funding for high-risk projects. We also help to protect your ideas together with Abt.75 and help to achieve broad impact for your science.

In order to support you in the best possible manner, it is of importance for us to be involved as early as possible. We are always happy to have a quick chat over a coffee and get to know you and your exciting science.

How does the Gateway support spin-offs?

We provide support from the initial idea through the entire start-up process. We help with the very first evaluation and discussion of your business idea, support with exploitation options, patent application and matchmaking with network partners, and the funding phase.

We work in interdisciplinary teams to incorporate all our know-how and expertise.

Events

29Jul

Gateway ESC Climate Impact Qualification GHG Value Creation

n the qualification program of Climate Innovation.NRW, together with the Wuppertal Institute and the EWI (Energy Economics Institute) of the University of Cologne, start-ups and business consultants learn: Understanding the climate impact and climate protection potential of start-ups to develop climate-friendly business models early on To communicate climate impact transparently and credibly. Workshop participation is exclusively reserved for participants of the first batch of the Climate Impact Qualification.

31Aug

Gateway Start-up Summer School 2026

Do you have an idea but don't know how to implement it? Do you want to be an entrepreneur and still need to develop your idea further? Then become part of the Start-up Summer School and develop your start-up from the ground up! From idea to start-up in 5 days Learn from our experienced mentors and coaches what you need to build your own company. From idea validation and the Lean Startup Canvas to investor pitches, our Gateway team and external coaches will help you bring your idea to life. You don't have your own idea, but you're interested in starting a business? No problem! You can also join another company and contribute to its development. Perhaps your founding team will be the one to bring about the next big market innovation! Learn: Learn the basics in hands-on workshops, talks and Q&A sessions from experienced mentors! Connect: Meet like-minded people interested in starting a business, find your team and network with start-up experts! Startup: Work on your own idea or join a team and present your business model in the final pitches! Who can participate? Students and doctoral candidates from the University of Cologne and the gateway universities (TH Cologne, Sport University Cologne, Rheinische Hochschule, CBS) – with and without their own idea.

07Oct

Design Thinking for Researchers

How much of an innovator is in you? Explore the step-by-step Design Thinking process in small teams. Based on practical examples and challenge, you learn how to empathise with users, as well as brainstorm and assess ideas to prepare for the rapid prototyping and testing finale. The workshop takes place on-site in Bonn between 9 am and 6 pm. Participation is free and no prior knowledge is needed. More such workshops are also available online on the events webpage of the Young Entrepreneurship in Sceince.