It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Prof. Matthias Jarke, a visionary computer scientist who made lasting contributions to both the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft and ERCIM. His work left a significant impact on applied research in information systems, data management, and digital innovation.
Prof. Jarke was deeply committed to the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, serving as the Director of the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Information Technology FIT from 2000 to 2021. Under his leadership, Fraunhofer FIT became a leading institution in human-computer interaction, requirements engineering, and data warehousing. He successfully bridged academia and industry, establishing Fraunhofer FIT as a major player in digital transformation.
From 2010 to 2015, Prof. Jarke chaired the Fraunhofer ICT Group, one of the largest divisions within the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. His leadership furthered Fraunhofer’s mission of advancing applied research across Europe and globally. Prof. Jarke also left a profound mark on ERCIM. From 2008 to 2017, he represented the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft on the ERCIM Board of Directors, serving as Vice-President in 2008 and 2009. His commitment to collaborative research in computer science and applied mathematics strengthened ERCIM’s role in advancing international cooperation.
In addition to his work at Fraunhofer, Prof. Jarke held the Chair of Information Systems and Databases at RWTH Aachen University from 1991 to 2021. He played a pivotal role in founding the Bonn-Aachen International Center for Information Technology (b-it), promoting interdisciplinary education in computer science and business. He also helped advance global education as the founding dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science at GUTech in Oman.
Prof. Jarke’s foundational research in requirements engineering, meta-modelling, and data warehousing laid the groundwork for modern software systems. His achievements earned him numerous accolades, including being named a Fellow of the ACM and a member of acatech, the German National Academy of Science and Engineering.
As a mentor, Prof. Jarke was devoted to nurturing young scientists, many of whom now hold leading positions in academia and industry. His legacy of mentorship, leadership, and scientific excellence will continue to inspire future generations.
Prof. Matthias Jarke will be remembered for his visionary leadership and the deep impact he had on the global research community. He will be greatly missed by his family, colleagues, students, and all who knew him.
