A prominent German scientist has moved from the leading Heinrich‑Hertz Institute (HHI) of the Fraunhofer Society to become the head of optical‑chip development for Chinese telecommunications giant Huawei. The switch has ignited a debate in Berlin about research security and the potential loss of critical know‑how.
The Federal Ministry of Research described the transfer as “concerning”. While a spokeswoman admitted that staff changes are not inherently objectionable, the ministry cautioned that they must not allow state‑funded, security‑relevant research to ultimately benefit a systemic rival. The ministry said it would develop proposals to strengthen research security in the future.
Security policymakers in the Bundestag reacted sharply. CDU member Roderich Kiesewetter criticised such moves and all research collaborations with China as “highly critical” arguing that China poses the greatest threat in economic and scientific espionage. He warned that China’s long‑term plans include embedding components in foreign networks to use them against the West at a later date.
Johannes Schätzl, the SPD’s digital‑policy spokesperson, acknowledged legitimate concerns about possible knowledge outflow. He called for a discussion on how to make these exchanges more transparent and clearly regulated.
Green deputy parliamentary group chair Konstantin von Notz described the change as leaving a “faint aftertaste”. He noted that the move is likely legally permissible, but the implications merit careful consideration.