After completing his studies and doctoral degree at the Stuttgart University of Technology (TH Stuttgart) and subsequent work as a research associate and department head at IBM’s research laboratory in Rüschlikon, Switzerland, Dieter Seitzer was appointed to the Chair of Technical Electronics at Friedrich‑Alexander‑Universität Erlangen‑Nürnberg (FAU) in 1970. As head of the chair, he established early research priorities in the areas of data reduction for image and audio signals, as well as the implementation of the components and circuits required for this purpose. Together with his affiliated computer science research group, Professor Seitzer opened up new perspectives in the fields of microprocessors and microcomputers.

Promoting interdisciplinary thinking

As the Technology Transfer Officer of the Faculty of Engineering, Professor Seitzer initiated the establishment of the Liaison Office for Research and Technology Transfer in 1981. Under his management, the Center for Microelectronics and Information Technology was founded in 1984. This, in turn, led to the creation of the Fraunhofer Working Group for Integrated Circuits in 1985 and, ultimately, to the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS in 1990, which he headed until 1998.

Professor Seitzer devoted his life to applied research and, with foresight and entrepreneurial spirit, helped turn Fraunhofer IIS into one of the most successful flagships of the German research landscape. He placed particular importance on the careful selection of his staff and on the ability to think across disciplines – laying the foundation for the broad range of topics and the extensive knowledge base that characterize Fraunhofer IIS today. This capacity for interdisciplinary thinking was especially crucial in the institute’s early years, when innovative methods for the high-quality transmission of music data over telephone lines were being developed. Professor Seitzer recognized the potential of audio data compression at an early stage, developed its foundations at the university, and vigorously promoted its technological advancement at Fraunhofer IIS. This ultimately led to the creation of the mp3 format, which is now known worldwide.

A lifetime of honors

Professor Seitzer received numerous awards in recognition of his achievements and contributions as a scientist, including the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany, the Bavarian State Medal, the Order of Merit of the Free State of Bavaria, and the Golden Ring of Honor of the City of Erlangen. In 2006, he was awarded Bavaria’s highest distinction for science and the arts, the Bavarian Maximilian Order. In 2007, he was also honored by the American Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) for the development and dissemination of the mp3 format. Last but not least, he was inducted into the CE Hall of Fame on behalf of the Fraunhofer development team.

A lasting legacy

Professor Seitzer’s work at Friedrich‑Alexander‑Universität Erlangen‑Nürnberg (FAU) and at Fraunhofer IIS shaped generations of researchers. With his passion for applied research, his tireless commitment to technology transfer, and his ability to bring people and disciplines together, he laid the foundation for a remarkable international success story.

"To me, Dieter Seitzer was a pioneer. Without him, neither Fraunhofer IIS nor the mp3 format would exist. He was the one, who had the idea of transmitting music over telephone lines early on. He did not let setbacks, such as rejected research proposals or patent applications, deter him. His ability to inspire others, coupled with his perseverance in pursuing his goals, ultimately led to great success. Just as he pursued his own ideas with conviction, he also supported his team. 'If someone has a good idea, they get the support to develop and implement it – and hopefully turn it into something great.' We still embody this spirit at Fraunhofer IIS today, and we are deeply grateful to Professor Seitzer for his work and his legacy.

“With the passing of Dieter Seitzer, FAU loses an outstanding scientist, engineer, and innovator – pioneering developments such as the mp3 format would not have been possible without him. In every smartphone around the world, there is audio coding technology that he helped shape. We will honor his memory with deep respect,” said Professor Dr. Joachim Hornegger, President of Friedrich‑Alexander‑Universität Erlangen‑Nürnberg (FAU).