The scope of their activities ranges from pure knowledgeoriented research to projects geared towards concrete applications and the development of technologies. In the process researchers develop and operate research equipment and large-scale facilities that are often unique in the world, including accelerator-based super microscopes, telescopes and detectors. This infrastructure is made available to university and non-university research institutes both within Germany and abroad. Research into the structure of matter will increase the fundamental knowledge essential to develop the technologies of tomorrow in all areas of our society. It will cover new concepts for accelerators and detectors as well as the storage and analysis of large data volumes. This research field will have a significant impact on all the other areas of research at the Helmholtz Association. It will seek not only to develop strategic collaborations with universities but – as a hub of expertise – to remain open to national and international partners and industry.