TUM Marks 150 Year Milestone in Electrical and Computer Engineering with Breakthrough Research in Health Climate and Quantum Technologies

Prof. Cristina Piazza studies human movement, conducts research on the design of assistive devices based on soft robotics technologies, and develops innovative control algorithms for various levels of amputation. Image credit: Andreas Heddergott / TUM

(IN BRIEF) The Technical University of Munich is celebrating 150 years of electrical and computer engineering, marking a legacy that began in 1876 with the first lecture on electrical telegraphy. Over time, the field has evolved from basic electrical studies to encompass advanced digital, connected, and intelligent systems. Today, TUM’s research covers a wide range of areas, including environmental sensing, wearable health technologies, biomedical diagnostics, radar systems, and quantum sensing. Researchers are developing innovative solutions to address challenges such as climate change, healthcare diagnostics, and infrastructure safety, demonstrating the continued relevance and impact of the discipline. The anniversary underscores TUM’s role as a leading institution in advancing technology and shaping the future of engineering.

(PRESS RELEASE) MUNICH, 18-Mar-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Technical University of Munich is marking a major milestone on March 18, 2026, celebrating 150 years of electrical and computer engineering. The anniversary traces back to 1876, when physicist Wilhelm von Bezold delivered the institution’s first lecture on electrical telegraphy at what was then the Technische Hochschule München, laying the groundwork for a discipline that has since become central to modern life.

Over the past century and a half, the field at TUM has progressed from early explorations of electricity to encompass energy systems, automation, and today’s interconnected digital and intelligent technologies. Research now spans a broad spectrum, including wearable devices, advanced sensing systems, radar technologies, and quantum engineering, reflecting the discipline’s continuous evolution and relevance.

A group of researchers has installed a device for analyzing methane in the air on the roof of the Geomatikum in Hamburg. Image credit: Roman Pawlowski

Among current research initiatives, Jia Chen focuses on climate-related challenges and urban air quality. Her work involves developing advanced sensors and mathematical models to accurately measure greenhouse gas emissions and air pollutants. A notable outcome is the MUCCnet sensor network, which enables detailed mapping of emissions across Munich, offering new insights into urban environmental dynamics.

In the field of wearable technology, Can Dincer is exploring new ways to detect chemical and biological markers in bodily fluids such as sweat and breath. His research aims to expand the capabilities of wearable devices beyond physical monitoring, enabling the detection of hormones, proteins, and pathogens, which could transform how health conditions are diagnosed and monitored.

Oliver Hayden is a professor of biomedical electronics and, as part of his research, develops innovative methods for addressing in vitro diagnostic and biomedical issues. Image credit: Andreas Heddergott / TUM

Advancements in medical technology are being driven by Oliver Hayden, whose work focuses on rapid diagnostics and treatment monitoring. By combining electronics, optics, magnetics, and microfluidics, his research team is developing innovative solutions for point-of-care diagnostics and wearable medical devices that can be used even during surgical procedures. A key objective is to accelerate the transition from laboratory research to clinical application.

In parallel, Benjamin Nuß is working on digital and connected radar technologies that integrate multiple data sources to provide accurate environmental mapping. These systems have applications across industries, including automotive safety, industrial automation, and critical infrastructure protection, as well as in next-generation wireless communication.

Production of nanostrings in the cleanroom: Prof. Eva Weig in front of the machine used to evaporate different metallic layers onto the chips via vapor deposition under ultrahigh vacuum. Image credit: Magdalena Jooss

At the forefront of emerging technologies, Eva Weig is conducting research on quantum sensors. Her work involves developing nanoscale structures capable of detecting extremely small physical changes and transmitting quantum information. These sensors hold potential for applications ranging from precise navigation without GPS to earthquake monitoring and advanced material diagnostics.

The 150-year anniversary highlights not only the historical significance of electrical and computer engineering at TUM but also its ongoing role in addressing global challenges and driving innovation across multiple sectors. From foundational discoveries to cutting-edge research, the discipline continues to shape technologies that influence everyday life and future societal development.

Further information and links

• More information and events related to the anniversary

Technical University of Munich

Julia Rinner
julia.rinner@tum.de
presse@tum.de
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SOURCE: Technical University of Munich