Christian Köhler

Prof. Dr. Christian Köhler is a full-time Professor of Industrial Engineering and Economics at Saarland University of Applied Sciences (htw saar) since 2016. He leads the research group time4.ce focused on digital and ecological transformation ('Dual Transformation') and co-leads the ECO² initiative with Fraunhofer IZFP. With over 50 publications and extensive industry experience in Six Sigma, production management, and engineering leadership, he bridges academic research with practical industrial solutions.

• Academic Affiliation: Saarland University of Applied Sciences
• Leadership Roles: Prodean of Faculty of Economics/Social Sciences (2018-2024), Deputy Study Director for 'Bachelor Digital Business & IT' and 'Master Industrial Engineering'
• Research Focus: Sustainable value creation systems, Industry 4.0/5.0, Circular Economy, Design Thinking, and hybrid business models
• Key Projects: UNIGR-CIRKLA, DIGITAM, and CEELS with funding from BMWK, BMBF, EFRE, and Interreg

His work emphasizes multi-dimensional innovation in industrial systems through the MTO-W approach (Human, Technology, Organization anchoring in economic/ecological models). Current projects include ADREAN (resilient production) and ABAKOS (battery competence development).

Scientific awards include the 2021 Landespreis Hochschullehre (State Teaching Award) and the 2005 VDW Thesis Prize. He serves on editorial/review boards for Journal of Cleaner Production and international conferences, while maintaining active industry partnerships through advisory roles at TÜV Saarland Foundation, VDI/VDE-GMA, and Plattform Industrie 4.0.

• Academic Qualifications: PhD in Production Technology/Engineering ('Technical Product Changes'), European Management
• Teaching Portfolio: Scientific Work, Project Management, Industry 4.0 Fundamentals, and Design Thinking for Agile Innovation
• International Engagement: ERASMUS+ guest lectures at Metropolia UAS, LAB University, and Saxion UAS