This contribution will introduce a novel concept for mechanistic modelling of complex kinetic phenomena and will explore its potential for multi-phase reaction systems modelling. The approach aims at the integration of high resolution measurements, modelling on multiple scales and the formulation and solution of inverse problems in a unifying framework. An incremental and iterative approach based on gradual refinement of experimental techniques, mathematical models and identification problems forms the core of the suggested methodology. The foundations of the approach developed in a collaborative interdisciplinary research centre at RWTH Aachen will be reviewed. Illustrative examples including chemical reaction kinetics, diffusion in liquids and heat transfer at a falling liquid film are presented.