The signing of the consortium agreement now provides the basis for the planned new CISPA building, for which Saarland will provide up to €350 million euros from the transformation fund (including initial equipment, ancillary costs, and taxes). Since the beginning of the process, CISPA has been responsible for the design and equipment of the building, working closely together with the Saarland State Government and the Federal Government.
In the coming years, a state-of-the-art research environment will be created for CISPA in St. Ingbert to facilitate cutting-edge research and attract world-renowned top scientists to the location. The new building will not only bring all research areas under one roof but will also enable the installation of cutting-edge technical equipment, laboratory facilities, and adaptable infrastructure. The new location will allow CISPA to grow from its current 600 employees to over 1,000 in the medium term, providing optimal conditions for world-class research. Saarland is thus further solidifying its status as a hub for research and innovation at the highest level.
Statement by Cem Özdemir, Federal Minister of Education and Research: “CISPA is a gem in the German scientific landscape. In a very short time, it has risen to become one of the world’s leading institutes for cybersecurity research. We are grateful to have found a solution that reflects this remarkable success. The new building in St. Ingbert lays the groundwork for CISPA to continue setting international standards in cybersecurity research.”
Statement by Anke Rehlinger, Minister President of Saarland: “CISPA is not only a leading international research center in cybersecurity but also an essential building block for the future of a modern Saarland. We are establishing the conditions that support CISPA in further solidifying its position as a global leader. Since 2019, CISPA has created many jobs and will continue to do so. With the new research environment, the Federal and State Governments are vigorously supporting this growth trajectory, because this project is not only strengthening scientific advancement but also Saarland’s appeal as a research hub.”
Statement by Jürgen Barke, Saarland Minister of Economics, Innovation, Digitalisation and Energy: “The investment in CISPA is a significant investment in the future of this location. We are strengthening Saarland’s role as a technological pioneer and creating the foundation for innovative start-ups and new business collaborations.”
Statement by Prof. Dr. Dr. h. c. Michael Backes, CISPA Founding Director and CEO: “We are grateful that we can accommodate all our employees under the roof of a single, modern science building that will set new standards for research, communication, and work culture. This is of invaluable importance for our collaborative research efforts and will allow us to continue pursuing our vision successfully and with great passion.”
