Dr. Simon Philipps holds a diploma and PhD degree in Physics, as well as a diploma degree in Business Administration. He joined the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE in 2005 through his work on the numerical modeling of fuel cells and, later, on III-V multi-junction solar cells. Since 2010 he works closely with the institute directors in different roles. In 2017 Dr. Philipps became Head of R&D Strategy and is responsible for the strategy development of Fraunhofer ISE. He is also responsible for EU research funding and related networks and associations related to Photovoltaics, e.g. as Coordinator of the Joint Programme on Photovoltaic Solar Energy within the European Energy Research Alliance (EERA) and as member of the steering committee of the European Technology & Innovation Platform PV (ETIP PV). Dr. Philipps is also Managing Director of the Fraunhofer Energy Alliance and represents the activities in Energy Research of 20 member institutes. His specialties include the analysis of technologies, markets and strategies. Educated in both science and business, his expertise also encompasses economics and business administration, including innovation management and organizational change.