Three jobs: Institute Director, Professor, Researcher
As Head of the Fraunhofer IAP, Prof. Böker ensures that basic research in the field of polymers is continuously advanced, that new momentum is generated and that top-level research is guaranteed. Prof. Böker is very well networked and is very interested in finding new synergies for the research work of the scientists at the institute. In particular, he is personally committed to strategic partnerships with other institutes and companies. In his role as head of the Fraunhofer IAP, he himself also emphasizes his role as a pioneer: “My job is to ensure that my employees are given opportunities and chances to advance research and development in their fields in the best possible way.”
In addition to his challenging task as head of the Fraunhofer Institute for Polymer Research, Prof. Alexander Böker holds the chair for polymer materials and polymer technology at the University of Potsdam. There he holds lectures, and supervises doctoral candidates, bachelor and master students. A task, which he accomplishes with great passion: “That simply belongs to it and if this were not so, then I would also miss something,” says Böker.
He also highly regards Potsdam Science Park as a research location because of its excellent location: “I always say that we work where others go on vacation,” he says with a smile on his face. “When the sun rises over the Science Park in the morning in this beautiful natural setting here in Potsdam-Golm, I am reminded every day what a great working environment I have.” But the biggest advantage is the proximity to other institutes, universities and companies. For example, the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces is located in the direct vicinity, as is neighboring institute, the Fraunhofer Institute for Cell Therapy and Immunology IZI-BB. Böker finds the rapid growth and expansion of the Potsdam Science Park positive. His conclusion: “It is wonderful to see how the Science Park is now developing.