About us

As a project team made up of the Fraunhofer Academy, the Fraunhofer Research Institution for Battery Cell Production FFB, Fraunhofer experts from numerous institutes, as well as university and industry partners, we are building the European Learning Lab for Battery Cells (ELLB) and continuously expanding our range of training programs. The result is a modern and comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of battery technology, offering tailored learning opportunities for a wide range of target groups. What makes it special: At the ELLB site in Münster, a research battery cell production facility on gigafactory scale is currently being built – and its doors are open to participants as part of our training programs! This gives you exclusive behind-the-scenes insights that you won’t find anywhere else.

Why European?

We view the training of skilled professionals in battery technology as a pan-European responsibility. To achieve economic, technological, and environmental goals and strengthen Europe’s global competitiveness, we need a well-educated and capable workforce. Europe-wide continuing education helps foster synergies in research and development, while also accelerating and improving knowledge exchange. Together, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable future in Europe. Our bookable modules are specifically designed with a European perspective in mind. We are actively working on making our training programs available in multiple languages to make our participant community even more diverse and European.

Why »Learning Lab«?

With the ELLB as a Learning Lab, our goal is to promote learning through hands-on experiences and experimentation. In a learning lab, participants can actively engage with materials and technologies, allowing them to better understand complex topics and develop practical skills. The term "learning lab" here does not refer to a single physical laboratory, but rather to the entire range of online and in-person training modules. You might not find Bunsen burners or pipettes in our modules - but you will find containers of active battery materials or real electrode paste. Where safety regulations prevent the use of real materials, we rely on creative substitutes. For example, in our Learning Lab, you can assemble and disassemble a 3D-printed battery cell by hand, or simulate key steps of the cell manufacturing process in a realistic and accessible way.

Bild zeigt Teilnehmende des PreCharger Workshops. Dieser wird vom europäischen Lernlabor Batteriezelle angeboten. — © Fraunhofer FFB
Image from our ELLB Battery Summer School (formerly PreCharger)

Why »Battery Cell«?

Our training programs cover a wide range of topics across the entire battery landscape - from production processes and battery systems to market trends and sustainability. However, the core focus of our curriculum is the battery cell. We are continuously developing specialized training modules that dive deep into battery cells, electrode and cell manufacturing, and all related areas. Topics such as vehicle integration or material synthesis are not a primary focus of our offerings.

Explore the ELLB’s Comprehensive Training Portfolio

With our comprehensive portfolio of 15 training programs, plus customized in-house trainings for companies, we cover not only battery fundamentals but also key topics such as market dynamics, manufacturing processes, cell technology, systems, digitalization, and sustainability. The seminars are designed to support a flexible learning path - from beginners with no prior knowledge to those seeking advanced, expert-level insights. If you already have experience, you can jump straight into one of our in-depth modules. To ensure maximum learning success, the latest research insights are presented in an engaging and accessible format, supported by hands-on methods and an interactive learning environment. Questions and active exchange with instructors and fellow participants are highly encouraged. This comprehensive and practice-oriented training program prepares you to successfully tackle the challenges of modern battery technology.

Practice-oriented

Our training programs rely on practical, hands-on methods that actively engage participants in the learning process through activity-based approaches. This not only supports effective learning through active and exploratory engagement, but also enhances the practical skills of participants. Methods such as experiments with battery-like materials spark curiosity and motivation, involving multiple senses and creating an immersive learning experience.

Interactive

We place great importance on interactive learning methods, including group work and discussions with fellow participants and instructors. These approaches not only encourage collaboration, but also deepen understanding of the course content. They strengthen the ability to recognize and apply connections, which is essential for practical, real-world learning.

High quality

Our training programs are characterized by the highest standards of quality and professionalism. All content is regularly updated and rigorously reviewed to ensure its relevance and accuracy. Knowledge is delivered directly by researchers, ensuring that participants benefit from the latest scientific findings and developments at all times.

ELLB-Team

© Fraunhofer FFB
What exactly is a research manufacturing facility? This infographic explains it for you.

© Fraunhofer FFB
Overview of all institutes involved in the ELLB.

The ELLB as Part of the Fraunhofer Research Institution for Battery Cell Production FFB

At Fraunhofer FFB, nearly 200 employees are working to establish Europe’s largest research infrastructure for battery cell production. In mid-2024, the first pilot production line »FFB PreFab« for pouch and prismatic cells was launched at the Münster site for research purposes. It serves as a precursor to the »FFB Fab«, a large-scale research manufacturing facility - a gigafactory-scale plant capable of producing all common cell formats.

The mission of Fraunhofer FFB is to scale innovations, drive technological advancements, and promote battery cell manufacturing made in Germany and Europe.

A Team of Leading Research Institutes

The European Learning Lab for Battery Cells (ELLB) was developed as the continuing education component of the BMBF-funded project »FoFeBat«. A total of 14 research institutes contribute to the design, development, and delivery of the training programs - ensuring the highest quality and scientific relevance of the curriculum.