The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft promotes and undertakes applied research within an international context that is of direct utility to private and public enterprises and of wide benefit to society. The Fraunhofer Institute for Mechanics of Materials IWM characterizes, simulates and evaluates the behavior of materials, components and systems under the influence of external forces in different environments. It works with companies and public agencies to develop solutions that improve the safety, reliability, durability and functionality of technical components and systems, thus making them more cost-effective, energy-efficient, and economical with natural resources. This helps the region, Germany and Europe to compete on the global market. The Fraunhofer IWM places high demands on itself in terms of its scientific achievements, and holds a leading position in its fields of expertise, i.e. material and component characterization, modeling and simulation of materials, and interfacial and surface technology. The institute gives its employees a high degree of creative freedom in their work, encouraging and supporting them in their personal development and in their scientific and business qualification.