Urban Systems

Founded in 2005, the Center for Scanning Electron Microscopy (Director: Prof. Dr. Matthias Epple) is a service facility available to all members of the University of Duisburg-Essen and offers excellent research conditions, thanks in no small part to its array of state-of-the-art equipment. Of particular significance is the Environmental Scanning Electron Microscope (ESEM), which allows for a more advanced analysis of chemical and biological microworlds than conventional scanning electron microscopes. Virtually all materials and objects can be examined in their original physical state by the ESEM using adjustable and thus defined vapour phases. The central laboratory is used in particular for interdisciplinary projects carried out by the Center for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU).

Laboratory for Toxicological Analyses (TOXLAB)
Years of experience in toxicological research and state-of-the-art lab equipment laid the groundwork for the foundation of TOXLAB in 2009. Directed by Prof. Dr. Elke Dopp and associated with the ZWU, the laboratory offers a diverse range of cellular toxicological analyses not only for research scientists at the University of Duisburg-Essen, but also for public authorities, the industrial sector and external research institutions. The laboratory offers analyses in three categories: in-vitro analysis, cell culture techniques, and analytics. Alongside contract research and analytics, consulting on toxicological issues and the further development of methods in the field are central activities of TOXLAB.

Center for Fuel Cell Technology (ZBT)
Founded in 2001, the Center for Fuel Cell Technology (Scientific Director: Prof. Dr. Angelika Heinzel) is a service provider for application-oriented research, development and innovation. Questions typical to industrial fuel cell research are addressed by the scientific and technological departments of the ZBT, which thus makes a significant contribution to strengthening the regional economy in international competition.