An overview of current research at Shell in the area of Fischer-Tropsch technology is given covering the full range from a detailed understanding at the atomic level right up to the commercial process. Studies of model catalysts under Fischer-Tropsch reaction conditions are reviewed, which have yielded new information on the nature of the active site. A recently developed kinetic network is described which couples these model catalyst studies to the macroscopic world of 'real catalysts'. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of various suitable reactor types will be discussed, with the emphasis placed on a comparison between multitubular fixed bed and slurry type reactors.