At the Technical University of Munich, our research group explores the critical intersection of law, science, technology, and society. We investigate how emerging digital technologies—including Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Technologies, the Internet of Things, and Blockchain—are changing our world, and how we can steer their development for the better.
Our Guiding Philosophy: Law as a Multi-Purpose Tool for Innovation
We see law as more than just a limit on technology. It is a powerful tool to promote innovation and actively shape technology design. Our research is grounded in ensuring that new technologies uphold and strengthen core constitutional principles: democracy, the rule of law, and fundamental human rights. This formative role of law is central to our work.
Our Approach: Problem-Focused and Collaborative
Our research is driven by pressing real-world problems, not by a fixed methodology. Central to our work is a legal design approach, where we use design principles to create more accessible, effective, and just legal systems. We combine empirical analysis with theoretical reflection, always working in close dialogue with stakeholders to integrate diverse social perspectives.
Core Research Areas
We have deep expertise in public law and the assessment of digital technologies, which we examine across several critical domains:
- Justice in Public Administration: Ensuring fairness and accountability in government services and decision-making.
- Public Health: Navigating the legal and ethical challenges of digital health.
- Public Communication: Addressing the impact of technology on public discourse.
From Theory to Practice: The Constitutional Design Lab
Our Constitutional Design Lab puts these principles into action. It is a research hub dedicated to learning through active intervention on today's most pressing issues. We address a critical challenge of our time: while society rapidly develops advanced technologies like AI and quantum computing, its underlying legal and institutional frameworks are often running on an outdated “operating system”. Our lab works to design and implement the necessary upgrades, ensuring our societal OS can keep pace with technological innovation.
Building the Future of Law
We do not just study technology; we help build its alternative futures. Our group actively participates in developing practical applications in Legal Tech and Digital Administration, turning cutting-edge research into the legal infrastructure of tomorrow.
