His research work ranges from computer architecture and operating systems to distributed systems and middleware, with emphasis to component orientation, fault tolerance, and real time. His current research areas have a strong emphasis on large-scale distributed real-time systems supervising and controlling real-world applications. He has recently coinitiated a Competence Centre for Service Robotics together with the Fraunhofer IFF in Magdeburg to foster the exchange between academia and more industry-oriented developments.