The award-winning works of the prize-winners are dramatically showcased on project islands. Each of the ten modules has a "gateway" that functions as a teaser, a playful invitation that engages the senses and focuses the visitor's attention on the project. In the more in-depth information at the exhibition modules, the scientific background , an explanation of the innovations and their economic and social relevance are presented. The views and experiences of the prize-winners are also documented in brief statements.

The design of the displays and individual modules is angular. Their basic shape is that of an irregular pentagram that gradually assumes its final form and becomes a solid, defined rectangle: this is an allegory of the work process of research and development. It illustrates the path taken from an idea as it becomes a project and ultimately culminates in a specific product.

Excellence, experience and appreciation - these central themes are reflected in the exhibition's execution. It provides information on the aims of the Deutscher Zukunftspreis and emphasizes its particular significance as a prize awarded by the German President.

Presentation of the 2018 winning project at the Deutsches Museum

In industrialized nations, around half of the population is infected with the human cytomegalovirus virus, but only in people with a compromised immune system can it cause severe illness or even death. The presentation of the 2018 award winning project on the life-saving drug development of the team of Prof. Helga Rübsamen-Schaeff and Dr. Holger Zimmermann is not simple and because of complex, highly abstract processes also needs different scientifically correct explanations.

A dangerous virus, but actually also beautiful - prominently placed at the front of the module, its implementation outshines the presentation. Depicted almost as large as a basketball and in great detail, the virus is the theme and motif - the principal player. Striking in its physical presence and brilliant in appearance, this central player is designed to arouse interest for the subject.

The information presented by the various media details the exigency as well as the social and economic relevance of the innovation. Facts and details of the journey from the idea to the innovation can be traced on two interactive screens. In addition to explanations in text and graphics, visitors can learn more about other aspects of the project in the display cases. 

Finally, the individuals behind the outstanding scientific achievements are of particular interest. In their own words, the prizewinners relate their life's journeys, the importance and development of their innovation. They provide insight into the cause and effect of extraordinary inquiring minds and spirit of research.