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364-1154-00L 3 Credits DR D-MTEC
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Technological Innovations and Sustainability Transitions

Lecturers & Examiners: PD Dr. Jochen Markard
VVZ CR n/a

Last Updated: 2026-06-01 11:30:56

Abstract

Innovations and major transformations in sectors such as energy or transport and the technologies driving these changes. Contemporary transition examples (e.g. net-zero transition), key concepts & frameworks, challenges for policy.For doctoral students, open for master students.

Objective

The course provides a better understanding of the challenges and complexities that come with the development and diffusion of new technologies (e.g., electric vehicles) and with broader sector transformations (e.g., energy transition). After completing this course, students will - understand transitions in single sectors (e.g., transport) and transitions that unfold across multiple sectors (e.g., transition to net-zero which includes energy, transport and buildings, but also hard-to-abate sectors such as construction, aviation, or food). - be familiar with key frameworks such as innovation systems, multi-level perspective, or advocacy coalitions, - know the relevant literature on transition studies and adjacent fields (e.g., policy analysis) and - be able to apply the new knowledge, e.g. to design a research project.

Content

Societies are confronted with major sustainability challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, water pollution, or loss of biodiversity. To address these challenges, we need fundamental changes in production and consumption. This means transforming business models, industry vallue chains, technologies, policies, and lifestyles. Sustainability transitions is a new and rapidly growing field of research addressing innovations and socio-technical changes in different sectors, e.g. in energy (renewables), transport (electric vehicles), buildings (heat-pumps, wood construction), food (meat alternatives), or industry (synthetic fuels). In the course, we will familiarize ourselves with key concepts and topics including 'classic' innovation theory, innovation systems, incumbent organizations vs newcomers, the multi-level perspective, politics of transitions and sustainability transition policies. We will read, present and critically discuss peer-reviewed literature . Format: The course will consist of 3*45min sessions on Monday afternoons. There is a combination of preparatory reading, presentations by faculty and students, and discussions. Attendance is required in all sessions. Pls reserve Mondays, 2:15-4:45pm (3x45min, 15min break). Some Mondays will be free, some meetings will be shorter. Dates: Sep 22; Oct 6, 13, 20, 27; Nov 10, 24; Dec 8, 15. Make sure you don't miss the first session on Sept 22 (2:15-3:45). This is when we will discuss and allocate student assignments.

General Information

Language
English
Levels
DR
Frequency
Yearly recurring

Examination

Type
ungraded semester performance
Students will read papers for each session, give a presentation in on an assigned topic, and write a short paper at the end.

Course Components

Type Title Time & Place Hours
seminar Technological Innovations and Sustainability Transitions
  • Mon 14:15-17:00 (IFW C 35)
28 h semesterly

Offered In