How we work

The BAW’s role as a scientific consultancy and federal research institute for waterways engineering and specialised shipbuilding involves a broad range of topics and challenging tasks. In recent years the demand for high-quality science-based consulting services has steadily increased. Working at the cutting edge of science and technology, we provide a multitude of services, for which the foundations are laid by research and development, many years of experience with large-scale infrastructure measures, and interdisciplinary projects.

Our work tasks are defined by the BAW’s key areas of responsibility: providing policy advice for the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) and project advice for the Federal Waterways and Shipping Administration (WSV). This is relevant for current projects related to practical work as well as for the development of future-proof strategies to prepare the waterway and shipping transport system in the best possible way for the requirements of the future. The BAW is also involved in standardisation work on national and international committees. Moreover, we are continuously developing our scientific methods and we engage in science communication and close cooperation with universities and other research institutions in the fields of research and teaching.