The term microsystems technology refers to the combination of systems technology and microtechnology.

MST is still a relatively young interdisciplinary technology. It combines not only the methods of microelectronics, micromechanics, microfluidics and microoptics, but also informatics, biotechnology and nanotechnology by unifying developments and structures from these fields to create new systems.

Examples of microsystems are the optical sensors in wireless mice, the bubble jet print heads of modern printers or the scanner heads in CD players. Further application examples are acceleration sensors for triggering airbags, instruments for minimal invasive surgery, such as endoscopy systems, and chemical sensors for monitoring foodstuffs.

The global market for MST components in 2005 was estimated at over 4 billion euros*. The market volume is expected to increase to 10.3 billion euros by 2010. This means that microsystems technology is one of the fastest growing technology sectors with an annual growth rate in excess of 20 %.

The prompt transfer of knowledge of the research findings to industry is imperative for the success of promising products. However, this transfer of knowledge can only be guaranteed by qualified skilled personnel. This achieve this, the specific promotion of newcomers in an academic and skilled personnel environment is required. This is why the development of flexible and adaptable education and training opportunities plays an ever increasing role.

The development of microsystems technology has been funded by programs of the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) since 1990.

Since the end of 2002, the six regional education and training networks for microsystems technology (AWNET) have been funded as part of the additional program for the promotion of microsystems 2004-2009 “Microsystems”.