Dr. Franz Lärmer

Please tell us what fascinates you most about research.
What fascinates me most about research is identifying new topics, learning about new discoveries and effects each and every day, understanding their relevance for the business of Bosch, and taking the right decisions on which directions to pursue to realize a successful innovation.

What makes research done at Bosch so special?
Research at Bosch is oriented to the long-term, we don’t look for short-lived profit but for sustainable developments and business models which improve other people’s lives. We grant sufficient time to developing great ideas into successful products, following our slogan “Invented for life”.

What research topics are you currently working on at Bosch?
I am working on microfluidic microsystems to revolutionize molecular diagnostics at the point of care for innovative healthcare solutions, fighting infectious diseases and improving future cancer treatments, amongst others.

What are the biggest scientific challenges in your field of research?
The biggest scientific challenge in my field of research is the extremely wide scope of competency domains involved: deep medical knowledge, molecular biology, chemistry, physics, microengineering, and microassembly technology as well as software and algorithms to integrate into smart system solutions. This requires a highly interdisciplinary, open-minded team approach, with a broad spectrum of competencies working together closely.

How do the results of your research become part of solutions "Invented for life"?
Our efforts do not stop at proof-of-concept, but we focus on the development of viable solutions, building up partner networks and business models, and thinking towards what is needed to reach maturity for transfer to our business unit Bosch Healthcare Solutions for product development. Only if we manage to transform our ideas into a product can we speak of an innovation. Our solutions to improve future healthcare are truly “Invented for life” in its most direct sense.