KIST Europe

KIST Europe, established in 1996, is the European branch of the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST). Located in Saarbrücken, Germany, it serves as a vital hub for scientific and technological collaboration between Korea and Europe. The institute specializes in cutting-edge research in sustainable energy and environmental technologies, with notable strengths in energy-environmental science.

KIST Europe focuses on the development of next-generation secondary batteries, hydrogen energy technologies, and carbon-neutral solutions. Its major battery research includes sodium-ion, zinc-ion, all-solid-state, and redox flow batteries. The institute is also recognized for its expertise in the development of high-performance electrolytes using ionic liquids, contributing significantly to the advancement of safe and efficient electrochemical energy storage systems.

In addition, KIST Europe actively conducts research in hydrogen production and storage, carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), and eco-friendly industrial process conversion—all essential for enabling the hydrogen economy and achieving carbon neutrality.

The institute collaborates closely with renowned European research organizations such as Forschungszentrum Jülich and Saarland University. In partnership with Saarland University, KIST Europe co-founded and jointly operates the Transfer Center for Sustainable Electrochemistry, which facilitates technology transfer, industry-academia cooperation, and practical implementation of sustainable electrochemical innovations.

With its strategic location in the heart of Europe and strong international networks, KIST Europe continues to play a pivotal role in advancing global energy transition technologies, while strengthening Korea–Europe scientific cooperation.