From 2026 onwards, the construction of the FutureWaterCampus (FWC) on Essen’s Thurmfeld site will be funded by the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and the European Regional Development Fund (EFRE). The FWC is designed as a hub for inter- and transdisciplinary collaboration. In modern biological and chemical laboratories, natural sciences, engineering, and social sciences will work together with practice partners to develop sustainable solutions to global challenges.

The new research building will create a shared home for water research, providing excellent conditions for multidisciplinary, high-impact research. Planned features include a pilot hall for large-scale experimental facilities, enabling the transfer of research results from the laboratory to pilot scale, as well as a think tank and knowledge hub to strengthen networking and professional development.