The Cluster of Excellence SE²A - Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Aviation [EXC 2163] is an interdisciplinary research network in which we pool the interdisciplinary expertise of national and international research partners under the leadership of aviation researchers at TU Braunschweig.
As a research network, we are driven by a clear goal: We want to develop ideas and solutions for a more climate-friendly aviation of the future. To achieve this, we are building on an internationally leading basic research structure that we are continuing to expand. It covers aviation, energy tech and holistic system assessment. Our basic research is laying the foundations for the technologies we will need not just for aircrafts but also for energy sources and beyond, right through to questions of acceptance and expectations of air transport in 2050.
The task we have to face is therefore not 'whether', but 'how' we rethink the air transport of the future with our research. These kinds of questions can be derived from this:
But to use new energy sources like hydrogen, batteries or synthetic paraffin, the aircraft of tomorrow will have to be designed differently, require new infrastructure at airports and a lot more. Together with our partners, we are looking at the status quo and think about new ways of doing things in various projects.
Besides Technische Universität Braunschweig, the following research institutions are involved in the Cluster of Excellence:
What is SE²A researching? And who are the researchers? Find out more about us here.
With a team of 140 researchers in an innovative, international research consortium, SE²A plays a pioneering role in meeting the changing requirements and expectations with regard to environmental protection and noise pollution. As air transport continues to grow rapidly, the need for sustainable solutions has never been greater. The image film emphasizes the cluster’s commitment to a full revolution of the air transport system, aiming to achieve a significant reduction in emissions and ultimately minimize the climate impact of aviation for the next generation of flying.
The SE²A Cluster of Excellence conducts research in three integrated cluster units: Aircraft Transport Systems, Aircraft Performance and New Energy Technologies. Discover how diverse and lively our research into sustainable technologies is.
Pooling expertise and conducting joint research into more sustainable aviation - that is the goal of our international collaboration: whether with TU Delft and ISAE-SUPAERO in Toulouse or in our international funding programmes.
We are committed to equality and diversity in research and science. With ChangING and the SE²A International Female Programme, we specifically support female pupils, students and graduates - so that everyone has the same opportunities.
We have diverse international teams working together to research the future of sustainable aviation. Whether you are a young doctoral student or an experienced professor - find out more about your opportunities in our Cluster of Excellence.
Register now! This year's Aviation Summer School is taking place from September 1st to 12th. Read more
Dean Henri Werij and Prof. Peter Hecker signed an agreement to renew and strengthen the partnership between the two universities. Read more
This year’s SE²A conference will take place from 17th to 19th of September at TU Delft!
Will we no longer have to worry about 'flight shame' with new technologies? Can we keep enough of the resource hydrogen in stock if we use it as an alternative energy source across all industries? And why does it take decades from the first research results to the introduction of new aircraft in everyday air traffic?
The Cluster of Excellence podcast "Exzellent erklärt" makes cutting-edge research in Germany understandable for everyone. The professors introduce us to the fascination of science and show us what drives researchers.
"We will make more sustainable propulsion systems technologically ready for the future, but flying will still be an experience, including the feeling of nausea."
SE²A and TU Braunschweig's International House are again inviting students from Germany and abroad to attend the 'International Summer School: Advanced Sustainable Aviation Technologies' from 1 to 12 September 2025, where they can gain insights into both research and current discourse. Accompanied by a varied supporting programme, participants will get to know the historic city of Braunschweig and the infrastructure at the Research Airport Campus.
One of the Summer School's aims is to get young students interested in all aspects of sustainable and energy-efficient aviation and to motivate them to consider a scientific career in this field.
Are you a representative of the press or politics and have questions about our research? Our scientists will be happy to share their knowledge and expertise with you.
Phone: + 49 531 391 66661
nofiyanti-heradita.seifert(at)tu-braunschweig.de
Project assistance
Cluster of Excellence SE²A –
Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Aviation
Technische Universität Braunschweig
Hermann-Blenk-Str. 42
38108 Braunschweig
se2a(at)tu-braunschweig.de
+49 531 391 66661
