"Innovation arises where research and industry meet"

Engineer Marco Gambitta has been working at the University Technology Centre in Cottbus for 7 years at the University Technology Centre in Cottbus. Together with 5 other scientists at the chair of Structural Mechanics and Vehicle Vibrational Technology, he researches turbofan engines. His aim is to develop new and cost-effective measurement methods to monitor the vibrations of engine blades. In this interview, he explains how he came to aviation, what he is working on today and why he believes the link between science and industry is the key to real innovation.

From simulation to reality

Virtual models are playing an increasingly important role in modern aviation research. "Building and testing an aircraft engine is extremely expensive and time-consuming," says the researcher. "That's why simulations are becoming increasingly important, because they allow us to digitally reproduce and understand the engines." The aim of his research is to close the gap between virtual modelling and real hardware as far as possible. "We want to make our simulations so accurate that they almost completely reflect reality. To do this, we need close contact with industry - because that's where we get the real measurement data with which we can compare our models."

Fascination with aviation

Although Marco Gambitta originally studied Mechanical Engineering, he was particularly fascinated by aviation. "Aviation is a demanding field because it is subject to strict safety and efficiency requirements. Working in this environment today feels like a dream come true for me." What particularly fascinates him about his work is the close connection between research and industry. "I am convinced that both areas can only be truly successful together," he says. "Science provides the space for new ideas and experiments, while industry ensures that these ideas are put into practice. When the two come together, real progress is made."

Long-standing partnership with Rolls-Royce

BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg and Rolls-Royce have been working closely together for many years - a model that works for both sides. "I started my career at Rolls-Royce after completing my Master's degree and found this collaboration very rewarding right from the start," says the researcher. "Strong connections have developed over the years - not only professionally, but also personally. I can get in touch with colleagues at Rolls-Royce at any time. Some of our joint projects have even been honoured with innovation awards - a sign that our research really resonates with industry."

Looking to the future

Scientific exchange across national borders is also important to him. "We are currently establishing collaborations with my former universities and supervising Erasmus students who are writing their theses with us," he reports. "I hope that even more young people from all over the world will take the opportunity to do research with us. Different ideas and cultural perspectives are a great enrichment."

About the University Technology Centre

Rolls-Royce's research collaboration with the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU) is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. The University Technology Centre (UTC) Cottbus was founded in 2005 as the first of four German UTCs (BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg, TU Dresden, KIT Karlsruhe and TU Darmstadt).

Since its foundation, over 40 million euros have been invested in research projects - in 2024 alone, the project volume was around 4.5 million euros. 12 chairs at BTU develop and optimise complex engine processes at the UTC. The aim is to further improve the efficiency, reliability and sustainability of future aircraft engines through integrative modelling and simulation. Since the UTC was founded, the scientists in Cottbus have written over 300 publications, 45 dissertations, two post-doctoral theses and over 300 final theses. Since then, 30 scientists with doctorates have moved to Rolls-Royce. Over 38.5 million euros in third-party funds have been invested in research.