Since it was founded in 1986, the Laser Zentrum Hannover e.V. (LZH) has become one of the top players in the field of laser technology and optics research in Lower Saxony and in Germany. The task of the LZH is to carry out non-profit, applied research in the area of laser technology

• Research and development projects in the areas of laser development and application
  
• Technical and scientific consulting, with the goal of cooperation between research and experience
  
• Industry-oriented training of skilled workers for the development, use and operation of laser systems

The main areas of research for the Laser Component Department of the Laser Zentrum Hannover concentrate on the development and precise control of modern ion processes for the production of high-end, stable optical coatings, and on the characterization of optical components.

The LZH works in scientific networks through cooperation with partners of the Lower Saxony Technical University (Niedersäch­sischen Technischen Hochschule - Leibniz Universität Hannover, TU Clausthal und TU Braunschweig).

The LZH also has close cooperation with the Hannover Medical School (Medizinischen Hochschule Hannover - MHH) and the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (Tierärztliche Hochschule Hannover - TiHo).