CoM2Life features a unique and broad set of complementary research disciplines and will be the catalyst for the Convergence of Soft and Living Matter Disciplines in the RMU region and beyond. The strategic importance of this convergence mission is based on the premise that after a century of discipline-specific research in which deep understanding has been achieved, the knowledge landscape provides sufficient complementary understanding that horizontal integration is now possible and needed to address major research questions and societal challenges. This need for convergence is particularly evident at the interface of soft and living matter — the reality we inhabit — by overcoming traditional disciplinary boundaries and integrating elements of the classical disciplines of chemistry, physics, biology, engineering, and medicine.

Ultimately, this convergence approach will lead to breakthrough technologies for various applications and sectors, not only in healthcare, but also in sustainability and functional materials. It will provide a long-term driver for technological innovation in the Rhine-Main region and beyond. In short term, it connects particularly well to the biotech innovation strategy around Mainz and Darmstadt.

CoM2Life will catalyze with convergence mission with a horizontally integrated research and training program to not only conduct cutting-edge research, but also form a new class of researchers with T-shaped researcher skills who have a multidisciplinary information advantage to spark discoveries and drive innovation. A flanking communication science research program will help us to create an inclusive transdisciplinary environment that benefits both the individual researchers as well as CoM2Life research as a whole.