The "Foundations" cluster is dedicated to the fundamental aspects of complex IT systems. The focus is on understanding formal models as abstractions and tools, as well as on the development and analysis of efficient algorithms and processes in various domains.
Our Mission
Our mission is to create the fundamentals upon which further research within various disciplines can build. We are particularly interested in understanding complex systems and relevant computational problems.
Research Focuses
- Formal models: Formal models play a central role in the "Foundations" cluster. These models help us to precisely describe complex IT systems and analyze their functionality and performance.
- Algorithmics: Algorithms and processes are developed and analyzed using mathematical methods. Probabilistic aspects are also considered. The aim is to develop efficient algorithms, also for complex problems, and to improve our understanding of problem complexity.
Cluster Members
Research Focuses:
- theoretical computer science
- efficient algorithms
- heuristic optimization
- random processes
- complexity
Affiliate Cluster Members
Prof. Dr. Niclas Böhmer
Head of Algorithmic Decision Making and Society
Phone: +49 331 550-9196
Mail: niclas.boehmer@hpi.de
Research Focuses:
- Computational Social Choice
- Economics and Computation
- Fair & Transparent AI
- AI for Public Health
- Social Impact of Algorithms
Prof. Dr. Jürgen Döllner
Head of Computer Graphics Systems
Phone: +49 331 5509-170
Mail: juergen.doellner@hpi.de
Research Focuses:
- visual computing
- AI for geometry and geodata
- software analytics
- geospatial analytics
- video analytics
- finance analytics
Prof. Dr. Anja Lehmann
Head of Cybersecurity – Identity Management
Phone: +49 331 5509-4931
Mail: anja.lehmann@hpi.de
Research Focuses:
- cryptography
- privacy-friendly technology
- encryption
- anonymous credentials
Research News
Last change: 19/09/2025, Mareike-Vic Schreiber