Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz sees the most important element for enhancing its image as a center of academic competence and outstanding top-level research in focussing its research potentials by establishing and strengthening main fields of research. In this connection, it is increasingly backing research co-operation agreements and networking with university and non-university partners. The close collaboration with the two Max Planck Institutes on the Mainz University campus forms an essential component of this strategic alignment.