Doubting Path to Science

Annual Report 2015 Imprint

Published by: Doubting The President of Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied Sciences Path to Science Editor (responsible according to German Press Law and the Media): Michael Flacke – Executive Department of Marketing and Communications

Content design and editing: Yorck C. Weber, H-BRS and Katja Spross, Trio MedienService Bonn

Authors: Carolin Brühl, Marie-Theres Demmer, Boris Hänßler, Julian Neitzert, Katja Spross, Alexandra Straush, Sophia Wagner

Translation: Jennifer Hatherill

Layout and design: Bosse und Meinhard GbR, Wissen und Kommunikation, Bonn

Printing: Rautenberg Media & Print Verlag KG, Troisdorf

Print run / Date: 750 copies / May 2016 www.h-brs.de | www.trio-medien.de | www.bosse-meinhard.de 4 contents contents 5 exchange » 8 study » 12 research » 24 live » 50 collaborate » 64 report » 80

» 6 20 years of Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg » 13 Statement of the Vice President » 25 Statement of the Vice President » 51 Statement of the Chancellor » 65 Statement of the Vice Presidents » 82 Facts and fi gures Teaching, Learning and Further Education Research and Young Academics International Affairs and Diversity, and » 8 Double interview: » 52 At home in a foreign land Regional Development and Innovation » 84 University structure From the culture of doubt(ing) » 14 A big crowd-puller » 26 Full service for research » 53 Exchanging experiences, » 66 Signals from space » 85 New appointments » 16 Internship abroad » 28 Which way is up? building bridges » 67 Work, the purpose of life? » 85 Staff structure » 17 Till dawn » 29 Small cells, big innovation » 54 Pushed to the limit » 68 Robots for nursing homes » 85 University council » 20 The essence of economics » 32 Skin colour plays no role » 55 The consequences of your actions » 70 Integration as a business model » 86 Partner universities » 21 Better teaching » 33 Getting fat is dangerous » 59 Pitching in around the world » 71 Dare to risk » 22 Modern journalism » 34 The fruit of a highly ramifi ed TREE » 60 Small prick, big impact » 88 Number of international » 74 Practical research and teaching cooperation projects » 23 Kick off right » 35 Economic factor medical tourism » 62 Keep in touch according to department » 76 Driving force for the economy » 36 Forward-looking and interdisciplinary » 92 Prizes and awards » 77 Big potential for small companies

» 78 In stride with the university

doubting» 38 the magazine on this year’s theme

» 18 Christine Buchholz, » 30 Udo Scheuer, » 56 Annette Menke, » 72 Lukas Gemein, Professor for Director of the Centre for Professor for Biology, Master’s student in Management Sciences Science and Technology Transfer Offi cial Appointee for Diversity mechanical engineering 6 » Highlights 7 NRW Minister of Science, 19th June 2015: Impossible to over- Intercultural exchange at Svenja Schulze, fi rst a ceremony look: since anni- the anniversary cele- congratulates in the auditorium, versary year, a bration: University the H-BRS on then a research tram in city line President Hartmut its “successful exhibition and a 66 wears the Ihne tests the development” spirited summer blue of Hoch- “language tandem”. and on being an festival. schule Bonn- . “outstanding hub Rhein-Sieg #20 Years_H_BRS: of teaching and entrepreneurs, friends research”. and donors tweet congrats.

Reunion at A model of the university’s the big alumni new building in Sankt brunch Augustin.When the H-BRS opened on 1st January 1995, its focus was Management Sciences.

www.h-brs.de/en/20-years-bonn-rhein-sieg-university

Even the beer is blue: for 20 successful years of the occasion, Cologne’s Permanent ink: well-wishers Recipients of the fi rst matriculation university and research history: traditional ale in the immortalise themselves on an numbers: Wolfgang Minnich This chronicle provides an overview university’s colour electronic whiteboard in front and Jasmin Riediger of the auditorium. www.h-brs.de/chronik-der-hochschule-20-jahre-h-brs

8 » exchange » exchange 9

From the Culture of Doubt(ing) shows. If only participants could say, “That’s a point that self-image – regardless of discipline. Everywhere high I’ve never considered. I’d fi rst like to think it over.” Nowa- quality academic instruction takes place, be it seminar, Science journalist Ranga Yogeshwar and University President Hartmut Ihne discuss doubts in days, we insist that people take a position and shut out the exercise or lecture hall, room is created for this fundamen- science and society option of doubting. The culture of doubting is much more tal self-refl ective attitude. Students must always have the complex than that of certainty, but at the same time it’s chance to ask when they don’t understand as well as to } What does doubt mean to you? also more free and more human. doubt the truth of a statement. But doubt is much more Ranga Yogeshwar: Doubts always appear when a de- fundamentally anchored in society – and must be. As cision has to be made. But what’s the motive of doubting? } How much doubt does science need? Ranga Yogeshwar said at the beginning: doubt is a funda- We question, check and want to verify. Considering the Yogeshwar: Science is full of doubt. That’s why every mental component of the culture. A culture that doesn’t wide spectrum of inherent doubt on the one hand, and the scientifi c statement made must be verifi able; a precise list doubt is unthinkable for me. No doubt, no knowledge and structured doubt of science on the other, a deeper question of sources and references is essential. Any residual doubt is no innovation. Cultures that don’t doubt are totalitarian. arises: is doubting a culture in and of itself? quantifi ed and stated as a margin of error. Hartmut Ihne: Doubt is, fi rst and foremost, the general Ihne: In addition to verifi cation, falsifi cation also plays } Can the doubts of scientists lead to religious belief? feeling that something isn’t right. However, doubt can also a large role. According to Karl Popper, a statement is only There are famous examples: Max Planck and be a methodological position, to quote Descartes loosely: scientifi c if one can show the conditions under which it is Werner Heisenberg have expressed this view. what can we actually know for certain? Then doubt itself false. That is the falsifi cation criterion. Ihne: At the dawn of Western intellectual history, there becomes a methodological principle. Descartes addresses Yogeshwar: We should recognise doubt as a funda- was the famous Socratic insight: as knowledge increases, this idea in his “Discours de la méthode”, considered a mental element of science. In order for that to function trust in its fi nality decreases. I actually know that I don’t classic of European science history and the foundation upon well, however, a certain impartiality is required. Let’s take know. I apprehend the universe of possibilities and ascer- which modern science is built. the example of researching rare diseases. Established tain that there is very little that I actually know. The philos- “A culture that scientists can be blinded by their long years of experience opher Ludwig Wittgenstein asserts that in the end, when Yogeshwar: After the time of Descartes too, method- doesn’t doubt is ology was examined in the philosophy of science, mainly and arrange certain characteristics of a disease a priori into everything that can reasonably be said is clear, from the sea unthinkable for “We are captives of the placement of doubt. In which categories do doubts an existing pattern. That’s why we choose young medical of the unsayable we have only cut an island of the sayable. me. No doubt, no our own categories; arise, how does the contextual description look, and students for this task, hoping that with their untainted The rest that remains is there, but it cannot be rationally which words are chosen? Doubt includes a question: you viewpoints they’ll discover something new in the patients’ described; it is the mystical. Rationality is therefore em- knowledge and in other words, question, scrutinise and challenge. But even the way that fi les. In “The Emperor’s New Clothes”, it’s a child who fi nal- bedded in a sea of the irrational. Science is surrounded by no innovation. within doubt, questions are asked can change views. We are captives of ly says: “He has nothing on”. This open mode of thought chaos. Cultures that aspects of our own our own categories; in other words, within doubt, aspects characterised Albert Einstein. His work on the theory of Yogeshwar: The question is: how do I eventually fi ll don’t doubt are narrow-mindedness of our own narrow-mindedness are hidden. and part of our culture. What does it mean when a society relativity called both methods and that which had been this blind spot? Some fi ll it with God, Jahveh or Allah; totalitarian.” are hidden.” doesn’t doubt, isn’t permitted to doubt? considered law into question. In this way, he succeeded in others simply persevere with the idea that there is some- Hartmut Ihne Ranga Yogeshwar } Was doubt a decisive factor in the development of Yogeshwar: Here in Germany, doubt is also interpreted arriving at completely new insights. thing there that cannot be explained. That’s probably the modern society? as a sign of weakness. The culture of doubting is capable hardest. Scientists love completeness and hate systems Ihne: Yes, absolutely. The Age of Enlightenment wit- of holding dialogue based on doubt; it does not accuse } What room for questioning is there at the that are partially unresearched. But in methodology, the nessed a radical distancing from prevailing certainties anyone for doubting. I can imagine how liberating it would university? point is eventually reached at which we’re no longer in the about truth and values. Secular science could not prove the be if top politicians facing a crisis could say that they simply Ihne: In philosophy, it’s obligatory to question position to understand everything completely. To me it’s like existence of God. Doubts about God led to the question- don’t have the answer. Instead, we expect clarity from the everything at fi rst, even your own point of view. Other- a slap in the face from nature that says, “I’m not revealing ing of hierarchical legitimacy based on divine right. Doubt government, and this leads to the inevitable propagation of wise, you fi nd no basis from which thinking can begin. Of everything to you”. is a crucial element on the path toward democratisation delusion. I would also welcome this kind of dialogue in talk course, radical refl ection is an integral part of a university’s 10 » exchange » exchange 11

“Science is full of } Could we build a better future by doubt. That’s why doubting more? every scientifi c Ihne: Doubting is healthy and provides statement made orientation as long as it doesn’t turn into must be verifi able; quibbling. When, for instance, we fail at something, we begin to doubt the methods a precise list “Of course, radical we used up to that point; we rethink. Doubt- refl ection is an of sources and ing and innovation go hand-in-hand. Doubts references is help us to recognise dead ends and overcome integral part of a essential. Any them. But this requires that we perceive university’s self- residual doubt is doubting not as a disease but as healthy and image – regardless helpful. The attitude towards doubt is deci- Ranga Yogeshwar, quantifi ed and of discipline. physicist, television stated as a margin sive. This can be observed, as studies show, Everywhere high presenter, author in career biographies. Successful managers quality academic of error.” who have utterly failed with one concept may has developed numerous TV instruction takes Ranga Yogeshwar doubt their previous methods, but they don’t programmes, such as the doubt themselves as bringers and driving place, be it seminar, science magazine “Quarks forces of change. The Ego as the basis of all exercise or lecture & Co.” for Westdeutscher action does not give up on itself. It can’t give hall, room is created Rundfunk, which he has been up. Dubito, ergo sum. I doubt, therefore I am. hosting for over 20 years. for this fundamental Yogeshwar: Doubt always holds the After completing his studies self-refl ective opportunity to change a development. Young in Physics at RWTH Aachen, attitude.” people are driven by their environment not Yogeshwar fi rst worked at } When you think about the future, where do your thinking becomes stronger and stronger due to increasing to deviate from a prescribed path leading to Hartmut Ihne the Swiss Institute for Nucle- greatest doubts lie? digitalisation and its accompanying convenience – Kant a successful future. I wish that doubt was al- ar Research (SIN), at CERN Ihne: In the long-term, I doubt the integrity of human speaks of the “laziness and cowardice” that hinders the lowed to work its magic here too and that the in Geneva and at the Jülich beings; that is to say our moral reliability. We think too little use of one’s own understanding. opportunity existed of questioning the current Research Centre. In 1987, he and let ourselves drift. Essentially, our worldviews are large- Yogeshwar: I’m afraid that the digitalisation in many plan and perhaps discovering a completely began as an editor at WDR ly based not on what we have found out or thought of, but key sectors is incapacitating people just as Kant described. new path. and was chief of the Science rather on what others have told or given to us, especially We live in a very convenient, predictive world where my Television Programme Group the media and the new social media. A large portion of our smartphone suggests which word I should write next and for many years. Since 2008, ostensible “reality” is created by others. Think about what where I get recommendations about which shoes I should he has been working as an we know of politics. It’s almost exclusively second or even buy while surfi ng the net. We don’t make decisions any- independent journalist and third-hand knowledge. Nonetheless, we all act as if we more, we just choose from among a limited number of author. Yogeshwar is one of understand the issues perfectly. We question less and less. options. The convenience of allowing machines to make the most well-known science We believe that we have direct access to reality and don’t ever more decisions, combined with ever more and ever journalists in Germany. realise that it is only a construct, put together by media faster computers, feeds my fear that eventually machines interests and other such players. This infl uence on our could take over. 12 study Quality teaching is a hallmark

A big crowd-puller Great successes in teaching are the hallmark of 2015 at the Quality teaching at our university of applied sciences is also evident Comprehensive support at the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg – University of Applied Sciences. in the CHE Ranking. The Master programme in Computer Science University and District Library » 14 Pro-MINT-us, the project that has been successful for years in the received an outstanding overall score of 1.3. Internship abroad “The Quality Pact for Teaching”, convinced the Federal Ministry of Quality teaching lives, last but not least, in the many small and less Scholarship holders double, Education and Research with their follow-up application and is now glamorous routine efforts of all participants. When they take half thanks to supplemented moving forward into the second phase of funding. The name stands an hour’s time to explain something patiently to individual students, Erasmus grants » 16 for project-based learning and support in the so-called MINT-courses when they scrutinise their teaching concept once again and look for Till dawn (Maths, Information Science, Natural Sciences, Technology) at the fresh topics, more memorable explanations or new opportunities commencement of studies. The Long Night of Deferred for participation. That is what really accounts for student learning Assignments » 17 Pro-MINT-us tests new forms of learning throughout the university success, which makes us as a university successful, and I’d like to The essence of economy and improves support measures for students. Continuation of the take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks! Business Psychology launches a project guarantees intense exchange on quality teaching at the Prof. Dr. Iris Groß Master programme » 20 university. Successful approaches like the Study Workshop and Vice President for Teaching, Learning and Further Education Better teaching Study Island (modules for accompanied self-study) can spread across Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg departments. The university also introduced feedback tools to awarded VDMA prize “Bestes evaluate learning success via e-learning. Maschinenhaus 2015” » 21 The Department of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Modern journalism Technical journalists on research and Technical Journalism won the national competition for the Multimedia report on brown trip: multimedia report on brown VDMA University award “Bestes Maschinenhaus 2015”. With this coal » 22 coal in NRW prize, the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) awards concepts Kick off right for improving the quality of teaching. The prize is endowed with StartGut prepares students for 100,000 euros (see page 21). university » 23 14 » study » study 15

A big crowd-puller Comprehensive support at the University and District Library

Active support Structured management of literature Self-study in the e-college

How do I research correctly? How does the specialist When students write their Bachelor’s thesis at the very The e-college of learning platform LEA comprises database work? First-year students, in particular, have a lot latest, they have to organise their sources carefully. To numerous e-learning courses for self-study. In addition to Didactic Dessert of questions when they come the library. For this reason, in prevent them from losing their overview, the library offers special academic courses, students can acquire languages summer 2015, the library set up BibFachinfo. Experts offer all members of the university free access to the reference and soft skills. The offer is also aimed at newcomers who If this title calls chocolate quick, simple library guidance and help the students to fi nd management program Citavi. This program facilitates the fi nished school a longer time ago. “The basic course in mousse or crème brûlée to their way among data and books. The Fachinfo is open professional recording of research results from library cata- maths is especially popular”, observes Kundmüller-Bian- mind, you’re not far off. The four hours daily, but Susanne Kundmüller-Bianchini, Deputy logues, specialist databases and other sources. Passages chini. The e-teaching area on LEA is targeted at university difference is that dessert at Director of the Library, would like to expand this support in or quotes can be extracted individually; moreover, the lecturers. Here the library staff has set up didactic services the university is accompanied the future: “The info stand is a big crowd-puller.” program automatically compiles a bibliography. on e-learning. by a stimulating discussion on new didactic methods. Once Bib-Cloud against data theft More on library services: per semester, Iris Groß, Vice Ü www.bib.h-bonn-rhein-sieg.de/ President for Teaching, Learn- Access data anytime, anywhere – it’s possible with en/Home.html ing and Further Education, Bib-Cloud. The library reserves 4 GB space for each user in its invites all university teaching online storage. Users can store texts, images and other fi les staff to this event. The hot and share them with others at the library. The data remains didactic tip for Winter Semes- in the university server and is thus protected from misuse. ter: “It doesn’t always have “We offer the students a secure alternative to Dropbox and to be PowerPoint”. Profes- other such solutions”, says Kundmüller-Bianchini. sors Ursula Konrads and Ingo Groß faced off in “battle”, Google insider and philosopher are guests “On the Sofa” Study in the virtual lecture hall both introducing their own What does Google want? SPIEGEL correspondent Thom- Recommended reading: favourite tablets and input Online meetings, webinars, e-learning – with the program as Schulz offered exclusive insight into the world’s most tools. Via projectors, they use Thomas Schulz: What Google Really Wants – Adobe Connect, seminars and lectures can be held online. powerful concern. For his book, the Silicon Valley expert these tools in lectures and How the most infl uential concern in the world is The library supports the use of this tool, which is made spoke with Google founder Larry Page as well as with seminars as electronic black- changing our future available free of charge via the German National Research corporate masterminds and scientists. His results held the boards. This enables them Natalie Knapp: The Never-Ending Moment: and Education Network (DFN). “Professors like to use entire auditorium spellbound. to show previously prepared The Value of Uncertainty Adobe Connect for courses on exam preparation”, reports elements and work on other As a guest on the sofa, philosopher Natalie Knapp spread, Kundmüller-Bianchini. Since Winter Semester 2015/16, content interactively with above all, confi dence. She encouraged the audience to a new Master programme is being offered in the fi eld of students. value periods of personal transition and doubt as intense Susanne Kundmüller-Bianchini in discussion Social Security Studies with a second semester consisting phases of life. with Thomas Schulz exclusively of online courses. 16 » study » study 17

Rewarding the courage to study abroad Writing till dawn Scholarship holders double, thanks to supplemented Erasmus grants The Long Night of Deferred Assignments

The International Offi ce supplements Erasmus for everyone who is interested, so the university supple- The semester is drawing to a close, and assignments should The Long Night was fi lled with support. The library staff scholarships for practical semesters, internships ments them through its own resources. This means that be nearly completed by now. Instead piles of textbooks introduced the reference management program Citavi and or fi nal thesis projects – this is well received by funding amounts at Bonn-Rhein-Sieg are higher than at crowd the desk; the fi rst sentence is not yet written. “I’ll was available to answer questions until 10pm. The univer- students. Self-initiative is still required. many other universities. start fi rst thing tomorrow”, we typically reassure ourselves. sity Writing Centre team gave tips on proper citation and Funding for Almost all students are familiar with this phenomenon: successful wording. And the AStA provided refreshments. international International exchange impacts positively on academic This campaign to promote Erasmus-funded internships is “procrastinitis”. Students who couldn’t make it home so late at night, could internships is higher In 15 seconds … knowledge and personal development – career counsellors, successful. In academic year 2013/14, only 13 students even sleep at the university. “The university should be a at the H-BRS than human resource managers and many returning students went abroad with the programme; in the following Professor Iris Groß, Vice President for Teaching, Learning place where students feel comfortable”, says Iris Groß. at many other agree. The Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, with its heavy academic year, nearly twice as many crossed the border. and Further Education, is addressing this issue. Together emphasis on practice, has a second focus. “Employers Students can show initiative early on in the preparatory with the General Students’ Committee (AStA), the Master’s student Christiane Reher benefi ted from this universities looks for practical experience abroad”, says Astrid phase by tending to their own internship. The International student councils within each department, and many other event. She especially appreciated the one-on-one training Schlinkert from the International Offi ce. “Students learn Offi ce provides advice on issues surrounding departure supporters, she organised the “Long Night of Deferred at the Sankt Augustin Campus. “I got tips on improving my not only to apply their theoretical knowledge, but also to formalities, funding options and fi nding a suitable position. Assignments” at the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg. On study strategies and learned how to get better organised. act confi dently and on their own initiative.” “I receive calls for applications and other offers via e-mail”, two evenings toward the end of the summer semester, The next assignment will be easier for me”, she says full of says Astrid Schlinkert. “I then forward this information students met in the library and the rooms for independent conviction. Despite these positive effects, many of those interested still to the corresponding departments where it’s made avail- study to work on their assignments. Discussion rounds and fi nd it diffi cult to decide in favour of an internship abroad: able to students online.” Lists of placement agencies and one-on-one counselling on self-organisation were also on Mechanical Engineering professor, Iris Groß, remembers The campaign to promote Eras- the familiar environment is too comfortable. One incen- companies offering internships help, too. offer. “The event had two goals: fi rst, to offer students the problem of procrastination from her own time as a mus-funded internships is successful: tive that can make this decision easier is fi nancial support concrete support with their assignments, and second, to student. For this reason, she fi nds it important to show the number of students with an from the International Offi ce in the scope of the Erasmus Most students travel to English-speaking countries to broach the issue of procrastination with them”, says Iris students that they are not alone in this behaviour. “We internship abroad has doubled Programme. Erasmus grants are not always high enough expand their language skills in a professional environment Groß. “Students should enjoy attending university.” always offer support and advice at the university, not just there. Each scholarship holder fi nds his or her own path in during the ‘Long Night of Deferred Assignments’. But this the practical experience abroad. In the 2014/15 academic event makes students especially aware of what we have to year, 4 out of 25 scholarship holders took advantage of offer.” Positive feedback from the students has already the opportunity to be funded after graduation – a novelty “The university had an effect: in February and March 2016, the midnight of the Erasmus programme. The period of the practical should be a place oil will burn again, and many assignments will come much experience varies, too. “Exchanges abroad of two months where students feel closer to completion. or longer are funded”, says Astrid Schlinkert. “But we did comfortable.” have one student who went to France twice during his Iris Groß, Vice President Master course, once for an internship and later for the and “Long Night” initiator practical phase of his Master’s thesis.”

More: Ü www.h-brs.de/praxissemester-im-ausland Christine Buchholz, Interim Professor for Quantitative and Qualitative Methods, sees her main task as encouraging students to doubt.

Numbers are objective and statistics clear proof – that’s what many people think, but it’s not always true. Christine Buchholz wants to straighten out this misconception. “In my lectures on statistics, I ask students to doubt the results of statistical tests.” This also applies to students’ own work. On each exam, Buchholz gives them the task of critically questioning their own results. In the fi nal thesis, too, a chapter critically analysing the methods, procedures and challenges faced is required. “Doubt is a basic requirement of good science.” 20 » study » study 21

Understanding the essence of economics Better teaching, fewer dropouts Business Psychology launches a Master programme Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg awarded VDMA prize “Bestes Maschinenhaus 2015”

Universities with a specialisation in Business Psy- Launched in Summer Semester 2016, the three-semester Students like coming to the H-BRS. They enjoy studying a logical, step-based study chology are in high demand in Germany. One of Master programme in Business Psychology offers Bachelor and acquiring professional and personal competencies for structure and the interdisci- these is the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg – Univer- graduates an alternative to entering the job market directly. a successful career – this is how Professor Paul Melcher plinary nature of the depart- sity of Applied Sciences. It offers students a com- Even more so than in the basic course, students are guided and his colleagues defi ne academic success. The professor, ment to funding and support prehensive programme that goes beyond lectures toward independent work, which begins with the selection as coordinator for quality, evaluation, practical semesters measures, the potential for and seminars – and since Summer Semester 2016, of three to six compulsory optional courses. “These semes- and scholarships for the Department of Electrical Engi- improvement has been fully

In 15 seconds … in addition to a Bachelor, a Master course. ter-overlapping modules are project-focused”, says Cristina neering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism, tapped at all levels. Massen, Programme Director and Professor for Business summarised everything that improves teaching and reduces Maxi Dietzsch has been working on a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. “Students conduct independent projects, such the number of students who break of their studies in his The concept is based on Business Psychology at the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg as developing an assessment centre.” Peter Muck, Depart- application for “Bestes Maschinenhaus 2015”. The result: practical experience, as illus- since 2013. Her decision was well thought-out. “Business ment Dean and Professor for Business Psychology, adds, success. In the 2nd competition of the German Engineering trated by what is known as Psychology doesn’t just focus on economics; it takes the “With this degree course, we’ve created a very attractive Federation (VDMA), this teaching concept triumphed over the 4+1+4+1+4+1 model. For behaviour and lives of the employees into consideration”, programme situated at the juncture of science and prac- fi ve high-ranking fi nalists, securing the prize of 100,000 every four weeks of theory says the student. “Interest in the psychological dimension tice.” euros for the department. – lectures, exercises, internships – a project week follows. of business has increased dramatically.” Dietzsch is not This gives students the chance to apply their expertise in alone in this observation. In 2012/13, the programme’s fi rst This specialisation benefi ts students later during the job practice. Professor Iris Groß, Vice President for Teaching, student intake, 1,800 candidates applied for 60 places. search – both as a directional impulse in choice of career Learning and Further Education, praises this approach: and as a unique qualifi cation in rare yet in-demand “The large project component lets students experience Students directly test their knowledge of economics, meth- specialties, such as environmental or fi nance psychology. the purpose behind their learning early on.” Moreover, odology and psychology during a practical semester. “Most Maxi Dietzsch would also like to continue her studies after the team coordination and personal responsibility inherent gather practical experience in the region, at Deutsche completing her Bachelor’s degree in Winter Semester in the project work promote personal development and Telekom or at SMEs like Knauber”, says Antje Röbbert, the 2016/17. “It’s diffi cult to fi nd a job in psychology without train students in soft skills, such as project management More on the Master Programme department’s practical semester coordinator. “About one a Master’s degree”, she says. “Besides, I feel comfortable and presentation techniques. “We impart competencies “We award this prize in Business Psychology: fourth of the student interns were active here and can pursue my passion.” that help students later in their professional lives”, explains to a teaching concept Ü www.h-brs.de/en/wiwi/ elsewhere in Germany with companies Professor Melcher. “Vocational preparation is especially that makes students business-psychology-msc such as Bosch.” Positions ranged from important to us as a university of applied sciences.” human resource management, develop- “I feel comfortable the central focus.” ment and recruiting to sales and market here and can pursue “We award this prize to a teaching concept that makes More: Dr. Reinhold Festge, VDMA research. This prepares the business my passion.” students the central focus”, said VDMA President, Dr. Rein- Ü www.youtube.com/watch?v=8s7UpcZ2U-0 President psychologists ideally for the job market, hold Festge, at the award ceremony in May. This is attested Maxi Dietzsch, BA student in which has positions open for them in Business Psychology, plans to to by involving students in the process, through evalua- human resource management, marketing go on for a Master’s degree tion procedures and feedback discussions, for instance. and corporate development. Measures that sustainably ensure the quality of teaching and contribute to academic success are extensive. From 22 » study » study 23

Modern Journalism Kick off right Students produce a multimedia report on brown coal Head start in studies: StartGut trains academic skills and self-organisation

A buzzing noise fills the room. The world’s largest land tool, mixed media can be combined to compose a report. Kick of your studies right, with a preparatory Concept for all departments machine, the bucket wheel excavator, cuts into the ground. Student, Lea Lindenberg, is inspired by the practice-based semester – the programme H-BRS-StartGut is pur- Billows of dust rise. Kilometre-long conveyor belts roll past. opportunities at the university. “The project weeks in the suing this goal in the degree course Electrical En- The Study Workshop is another project that supports Viewers feel as if they are standing in Garzweiler surface degree programme Technical Journalism give us the chance gineering. The interdepartmental Study Workshop academic success. Students can prepare in peace for tests Pro-MINT-us enters round mine near Neuss rather than in the multimedia lab at the to apply our knowledge. That helps me during the practical also contributes to academic success. or work on their exercises and assignments. Tutors and two Hochscule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg. During the project weeks semester because I’m already putting together multimedia lecturers help when problems crop up and offer tips. “We “Since the introduction of in Summer Semester 2015, aspiring technical journalists reports now. Thanks to the brown coal project, I’m well In 15 seconds … The test run in Summer Semester 2015 went off without want to motivate students to work out a study routine for Pro-MINT-us, significantly more developed a multimedia report on the topic “Brown Coal prepared.” a hitch. Eleven “StartGut-ers” took advantage of this offer themselves. Then they learn much more effectively”, says students are passing examina- in the Rhineland”. Project director Sabine Fricke thinks it is to prepare themselves for requirements in the Bachelor Professor Klaus Lehmann, founder of the Study Workshop. tions in the MINT subjects”, important for students to become familiar with new forms Tuned in to the degree programme course in Electrical Engineering. The programme, funded Together with chemistry lecturer Antje Thielen, he intro- says project director Professor of journalism. “The trend is moving away from television by the Stifteverband (Donor’s Association), in the Depart- duced this project of accompanied self-study in Summer Marco Winzker. Pro-MINT-us toward the Internet. New formats, like cross-media reports, The two projector directors, Sabine Fricke and Wolfgang ment of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Semester 2014 in the Department of Natural Sciences. At supports students in the sub- are emerging. I want to teach future technical journal- Koch, consciously chose the topic brown coal (lignite) Technical Journalism, is not only targeted at prospective the start of Winter Semester 2015, the chemistry professor jects Math, Informatics (com- ists the best way to convey information. The secret: tell because it unites the two programme specialisations, students. Students who are already studying Electrical Engi- invited colleagues from other departments to a discussion. puter science), Natural sciences stories.” technology and environment. In Pageflow, both the threat neering but struggling with the study load, can also train at “In Rheinbach, the Study Workshop is a successful model. and Technology. Thanks to the to the environment posed by the surface mining and fumes StartGut. “Module 1 Mathematics is especially difficult for We’d like to make it a university-wide format.” The EMT Federal Ministry of Education Multimedia, one tool of the power plant and the technical side with power many students. That’s why we offer the option of catching and Computer Science Departments have already set up and Research’s Quality Pact plant, conveyor belts and excavators were addressed. The up”, says project initiator Professor Jürgen Apfelbeck. their own offers. The Management Sciences and Social for Teaching, continuation of 14 students worked in four groups on the topics power students presented the report in the university’s multimedia Prospective students also benefit from the intense training Security Studies Departments are also considering estab- the programme is ensured. plant, surface mining, environmental impact and town lab on the Day of the Open Project. It was warmly received. in maths. “Some haven’t done arithmetic in years. We start lishing their own Study Workshops. Since the end of the Beginning 2017, the university resettlement. Equipped with video cameras, film cameras Professor Johannes Geilen, Dean of the Department EMT, with simpler math problems and then gradually increase year, refugees have been attending the EMT Department’s of applied sciences receives and audio recording devices, they travelled to Garzweiler was enthusiastic about the modern teaching methods in the level”, reports mathematics lecturer Roberta Hodel. The Study Workshop, too. The opportunity is welcomed. Many funding for three more years. for on-site research. There they interviewed the spokes- the degree course Technical Journalism/ PR and called for programme not only fosters academic skills but also self-or- of the refugees studied in their home countries and are person for the energy concern RWE and residents of the the production of another multimedia report in Summer ganisation, which plays a crucial role in meeting study glad to be able to do something productive related to their town Immerath who had been resettled for the surface Semester 2016. requirements. Dealing with anxiety and procrastination are field to stay on the ball. mining. “The students captured the footage, images and topics, too. A learning excursion with three days of exam More on StartGut: audio themselves. We then pieced these many little frag- The report online: preparation is part of the programme. ments of the puzzle together into a master production”, ÜÜhttp://bit.ly/1X6oWWs ÜÜwww.h-brs.de/hbrs-startgut On-site interview in Garzweiler says Sabine Fricke. The biggest challenge was coordinating the material from the different work groups. Video and audio recordings needed cut and had to be integrated with photos and text to form a story. The online tool Pageflow, developed by Westdeutscher Rundfunk (West German Broadcasting Cologne), facilitated this process. With this 24 research

Full service for research Science – sustainability – social Centre for Science and Technology Transfer (ZWT) » 26 responsibility Which way is up? Gravity and spatial aware- Centrifuge experiment with the ness: Centrifuge experiment DLR » 28 at the German Aerospace The title of University Development Plan II (HEP II) that the The outcome of the assembled research projects in 2015 is quite Small cells, big innovation Centre in Cologne President’s Offi ce concluded at the end of 2015, is also a call for impressive. Among them is a large-scale project from the EU University Innovation Prize for research at the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg – University of Applied Horizon 2020 programme (see page 26) and the involvement of “micrOzone” » 29 Sciences. the German Research Foundation in two research training groups at Skin colour plays no role the University of Siegen and the Ruhr University Bochum. Another Under the headings Structures for Research, Space for Research highlight is the Institute of Technology, Resource and Energy- More security while working with and Visibility for Research, we’ve planned extensive measures for machines » 32 Effi cient Engineering (TREE), a new central research facility at the research promotion in the coming years, setting the course in 2015. H-BRS (see page 34). At TREE, topics on technical sustainability are Getting fat is dangerous An outstanding example is the new Graduate Institute North-Rhine bundled into a research focus, thereby addressing the immense Search for the origin of social challenges. atherosclerosis » 33 Westphalia (GI NRW), where colleagues from the Graduate Institute at our university of applied sciences interact with partners from The fruit of a highly ramifi ed Incorporating the results of research into teaching is a permanent other universities. As Vice Chair of the GI NRW, University President TREE concern at the H-BRS. In 2015, the institution decided on six new Hartmut Ihne has taken on the task of moving forward with the Master programmes. This is where the interlocking of research and TREE Institute lays the basis for development of a framework for conferring doctoral degrees. third research focus » 34 teaching takes on central importance and contributes to developing the H-BRS into a truly application-based institution. Economic factor medical The success and variety of research at the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein- Sieg was displayed at the Research Exhibition on the occasion of tourism Prof. Dr. Margit Geißler the 20th-year anniversary celebration. The scientists – supported by Vice President for Research and Young Academics To Germany for cancer therapy » 35 students and doctoral candidates – presented exciting projects “to Forward-looking and touch”. Minister of Science, Svenja Schulze, was just as caught up interdisciplinary in the exciting atmosphere during her tour as the numerous visitors The Department of Social Security were. Studies initiates a new discipline » 36 26 » research » research 27

Full service for research The Centre for Science and Technology Transfer (ZWT) supports scientists with cooperation projects

June 2015 in the Parisian suburb of Palaiseau: 18 research In contracts with partners from science and business, it’s partners from nine countries meet to kick off the Horizon not about a few simple rules. “Compliance with funding 2020 research project “C-BORD”. One of the partners is conditions and legal regulations, not least hard-nosed the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg – University of Applied financial interests in evaluating project results, these are the Sciences; project coordinator is the French Alternative Ener- crux of the negotiations”, according to Wünsch. “During gies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA). the initial talks, the danger already exists of making thoughtless commitments that could cause significant A 126-page application, five months of evaluation and problems later and place the whole project in jeopardy. three months of intense negotiations preceded this event, That’s why it’s crucial that we become involved early on.” resulting in a total of 403 pages of contracts. The Centre for Science and Technology Transfer (ZWT) was involved Bringing contracts to life from the very beginning. It provides scientists at the univer- ÜÜwww.cbord-h2020.eu sity with advice on relevant funding programmes, assists Kick-off events, like the one in Palaiseau, are already about Is a dino inside? with proposals and applications, handles project contracts concrete implementation. Initial steps as well as the binding A procedure for quickly examining large quantities of and offers support during project implementation. procedures for publication and the internal exchange stone for paleontological finds would significantly ease of information are agreed upon. The ZWT supports the the work of Professor Thomas Martin, palaeontologist Decisive for the success of an application is the total university’s scientists in this process too, with a lot of C-Bord at the Steinmann Institute of the University of Bonn. In package of concept, scientific know-how and a thoroughly hands-on experience. Researchers should not be deterred cooperation with the Institute for Detection Technologies The Safety and Security detailed evaluation plan for the results, right down to the by red tape. We support them throughout the entire (IDT) of the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, a technical Research Institute, represent- registering of a patent. If any of this is lacking, the project’s project period up to and including patent applications and solution for this problem is being developed. Professor ed by Professors Peter Kaul prospects for success sink dramatically, according to the licensing negotiations”, explains Wünsch. Gerhard Holl and doctoral candidate Dominik Wild are and Norbert Jung, is also experience of the ZWT. During consultation, the ZWT takes carrying out preliminary tests for this purpose. Using a participating in “C-BORD”. the following approach: scientists should be able to focus laser, they want to analyse the composition of individual The European partners are on scientific matters. “We support them in all other issues. rock samples. The system should be able identify poten- conducting joint research on It doesn’t make sense that they should also have to worry tial bone finds quickly and with no contact. In the scope how freight containers can be about familiarising themselves with all the details of the of her Bachelor’s thesis in Forensic Sciences, Catarina inspected for drugs, smuggled respective funding conditions, the EU state aid legislation Berger is also working on this topic. goods, explosives and dan- and the small print of contracts”, says Roland Wünsch from gerous substances as well as the ZWT. “We’ve acquired extensive experience and repre- radioactive material through sent the interests of our scientists and the university in the non-invasive methods. often difficult negotiations.”

28 » research » research 29

gave the test subjects the feeling that they were standing at at standing were they that feeling the subjects test the gave gravity, but the earth’s gravity was still at play, as well. This This well. as play, at still was gravity earth’s the but gravity, Small cells, big innovation

“d” or a “p”. The turning of the centrifuge created artifi cial cial artifi created centrifuge the of turning The “p”. a or “d” University Innovation Prize 2015 for “micrOzone” that could be interpreted by the study participants as either a a either as participants study the by interpreted be could that

only see a round monitor. On the screen a letter was visible visible was letter a screen the On monitor. round a see only

fuge. Completely isolated from the outside world, they could could they world, outside the from isolated Completely fuge. The great strength of research at universities of applied Three teams for one cell

was. To test this, subjects lay fi xed on their backs on a centri- a on backs their on xed fi lay subjects this, test To was. sciences is its close relation to practice. Together with

role. The goal was to fi nd out how big the infl uence of gravity gravity of uence infl the big how out nd fi to was goal The role. industry partners, many innovative products and technol- As an environmental analyst, Gerd Knupp, along with his

factors, visual information and bodily awareness play a large large a play awareness bodily and information visual factors, ogies with concrete applications can be developed. Since teams, tested whether the system would be able to break

Upright (PU), a person’s perception of “up”. Among other other Among “up”. of perception person’s a (PU), Upright 2010, the H-BRS has been honouring the best ideas with down harmful substances like pesticides or pharmaceuticals

In a joint study, they examined what is known as Perceptual Perceptual as known is what examined they study, joint a In the Innovation Prize. In 2015, the prize, endowed with within a relevant framework. “On average, we observed “d” or “p”: that is the question the is that “p”: or “d” 5,000 euros, was awarded to the research project “micrO- a very successful reduction in harmful substances even

zone”: microdisinfection system for decentral disinfection though we were working with a contamination that was

Michael Jenkins. Michael of water distribution systems”. up to 1,000 times stronger than we’d expect in reality.”

psychologist Laurence Harris and technical computer scientist scientist computer technical and Harris Laurence psychologist

from specialists at York University in Canada, perception perception Canada, in University York at specialists from In cooperation with the Institute of Solar Research from the Disinfection performance in water pipes and the proba-

the expert in Medical Computer Science. He received support support received He Science. Computer Medical in expert the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), scientists at the univer- bility of re-contamination were analysed by microbiology

subjects and how to interpret the results properly”, explains explains properly”, results the interpret to how and subjects sity of applied sciences were engaged in examining the professor, Dieter Reinscheid. He was able to determine a

out how we could simulate specifi c conditions for the test test the for conditions c specifi simulate could we how out properties of an especially small electrolytic cell, developed signifi cant reduction in germs that should last for several

tation is a very interdisciplinary problem. First we had to fi gure gure fi to had we First problem. interdisciplinary very a is tation

standing of perception in general. in perception of standing by the fi rm Innovatec. With minimal energy, it splits water weeks.

conducted experiments with the DLR centrifuge. “Self-orien- centrifuge. DLR the with experiments conducted

Herpers and his team also hope to improve science’s under- science’s improve to hope also team his and Herpers into hydrogen, oxygen and ozone. The small quantities of

stand the process of self-orientation better. To this end, he he end, this To better. self-orientation of process the stand

threshold more precisely.” In the course of their research, research, their of course the In precisely.” more threshold The electrolytic cells split the water

ozone that result can then be deployed at neuralgic points Chemistry professor, Steffen Witzleben, examined the long-

Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg has made it his task to under- to task his it made has Bonn-Rhein-Sieg Hochschule

Science professor. “Our next goal is to determine this this determine to is goal next “Our professor. Science into hydrogen, oxygen and ozone.

for water treatment. “In espresso machines, the cells can term stability of “micrOzone” and its behaviour in hard

Herpers from the Department of Computer Science at the the at Science Computer of Department the from Herpers

as strong as it is on the moon”, explains the Computer Computer the explains moon”, the on is it as strong as The ozone is used in water treat-

be used directly where the piping bends, that is to say, in water. He was supported by colleagues from the DLR. For

common is their unreliably functioning self-orientation. Rainer Rainer self-orientation. functioning unreliably their is common

our perception of “up” and “down” when it’s at least least at it’s when “down” and “up” of perception our ment.

places that are hard to clean with conventional methods”, longer space missions, a resource-friendly, effi cient method

older person who trips on the stairs – what they have in in have they what – stairs the on trips who person older

“Our results indicate a clear trend. Gravity only infl uences uences infl only Gravity trend. clear a indicate results “Our explains Professor Gerd Knupp from the Department of of water treatment is extremely important. “The system

A stumbling astronaut on the surface of the moon and an an and moon the of surface the on astronaut stumbling A

Threshold moon gravity moon Threshold Natural Sciences. He coordinated the work of the three can be operated with solar cells or even small batteries. In 15 seconds …

Aerospace Centre (DLR). Centre Aerospace participating university research groups, who dealt with Its use in areas with no electricity, such as in crisis regions,

gravity).

were carried out with a centrifuge from the German German the from centrifuge a with out carried were various issues before the product’s market launch. is quite conceivable”, explains Gerd Knupp. “It could be

examine situations between 0 g (zero gravity) and 1 g (earth (earth g 1 and gravity) (zero g 0 between situations examine

infl uences this perception? For this purpose, tests tests purpose, this For perception? this uences infl applied in many different scenarios. Even a well-known

to Herpers. By varying the rotation speed, the scientist could could scientist the speed, rotation the varying By Herpers. to

How do they know which way is up, and what what and up, is way which know they do How beverage bottler has shown great interest.”

conditions that are weaker than those on earth”, according according earth”, on those than weaker are that conditions researching how people orient themselves in space. space. in themselves orient people how researching

the results, we can draw conclusions about gravitational gravitational about conclusions draw can we results, the

with colleagues at York University in Canada, is is Canada, in University York at colleagues with Overview of University Innovation Prize winners: Computer Science professor, Rainer Herpers, along along Herpers, Rainer professor, Science Computer

a slant, which infl uenced their perception of the letter. “From “From letter. the of perception their uenced infl which slant, a Ü www.h-brs.de/hochschulinnovationspreis

Cooperative research on perception on research Cooperative Which way is up? is way Which „“The fundamental cause of the trouble is that in the modern world the stupid are cocksure while the intelligent are full of doubt.” Udo Scheuer only partially agrees with this quote from philosopher Bertrand Russell, because to him, doubt contributes to success – in establishing a company, for instance. The Director of the Centre for Science and Technology Transfer (ZWT) at the H-BRS, provides advice to graduates who want to start their own businesses. “An idea doesn’t get better when everyone praises it”, he says. “That’s why I act as a sparring partner who carries out a reality check.” Again and again, the founder of a business should question basic ideas, implementation and market entry, in order to be able to estimate the potential for success. “Doubt is a step along the path toward a convincing solution”, says Scheuer. “That applies not only to start-ups but also to large, dynamically developing organisations like universities.”

Udo Scheuer meets aspiring entrepreneurs at the university as a devil’s advocate – and ensures that doubt is dispelled and projects are successful. 32 » research » research 33

Skin colour plays no role Getting fat is dangerous More security while working with machines Search for the origin of atherosclerosis

Man and machine working together in perfect harmony, This technique has a further benefi t for the safety Thrombosis, stroke and heart attack – three main causes of death in industri- “Getting fat is dangerous, being fat isn’t”, summarised the researcher at the both fully applying their own capabilities in the production researchers: skin colour plays no role. The system already alised countries. All three can be traced back to atherosclerosis. In this disease, close of the project. “As a fat cell develops, an enormous number of infl am- process – that would be an industrial revolution. Up to now functions very reliably, according to Norbert Jung, but it small infl ammations appear on the inner walls of blood vessels, which consist matory factors are released. We showed this clearly in our experiments.” the parallel existence of workers and robots in manufac- can’t be used everywhere. “We need visible skin – a hand, of so-called endothelial cells. This fi rst leads to a narrowing of the blood These factors cause a change in the metabolism of the endothelial cells, which Skin and face database turing is the rule, not cooperation. The danger is too great an arm, a face. This rules out use in environments where vessels, called stenosis, and fi nally to complete blockage. While the second can eventually lead to atherosclerosis. In their experiments, the scientists for research that a small error in the process could lead to an accident. protective clothing is worn, in welding for instance.” phase of the disease is already well understood, researchers in the joint project found out that purine receptors play a role in this cell change. “These cellular The Safety and Security Re- The reason: person recognition is not yet reliable. This is the “Mechanism and Model of Atherosclerosis” (MeMoAthero) want to explain components could be the key to non-surgical treatment because drugs that search Institute (ISF) has cre- problem that Professor Norbert Jung from the Safety and Accident prevention with high tech why these infections arise. affect them already exist, though they’re used in other applications. That’s ated a database of skin and Security Research Institute wants to solve. why we need to continue researching”, says Edda Tobiasch. faces that can be used by The new technology is fl exible; it can be used with robots “We mimicked the process that leads to infection in vitro, in order to gain a both researchers and lectur- In the scope of the research project “Safe Person Recog- or with machines like circular saws. “In this case, we just better understanding of the progression of the disease”, explains Professor Topics for many doctoral theses ers. The data was originally nition in the Working Area of Industrial Robots (SPAI)”, work with a measuring spot, not with a camera image. Edda Tobiasch. The stem cell researcher from the Department of Natural collected for two projects: a engineer Norbert Jung and his team examined how skin Reaction is required in milliseconds, and the recording of Sciences coordinated MeMoAthero throughout the three-year project period. The MeMoAthero project generated plenty of dissertation topics. Patrick biometric recognition system could be reliably distinguished from other materials. a measuring spot and its subsequent interpretation by the Babczyk is researching how atherosclerosis arises at the molecular level. (FaGeb) that reliably picks Cameras working within the near-infrared (NIR) spectral system is much faster”, explains Norbert Jung. This acci- His colleague Dorothee Schipper is working on the project’s second focus, up on deceptions like arti- range form the basis. “During our preliminary examinations dent prevention is in the interest of the German Social Acci- researching what is termed restenosis. In addition to a bypass, treatment of fi cial facial parts, and Safe with normal cameras, the recognition rate fl uctuated signif- dent Insurance (DGUB), which is funding the project. For a blocked artery (stenosis) frequently includes the use of stents. The purpose Person Recognition in the icantly, especially under changing lighting conditions”, the upcoming 2016 “beyondSPAI” project, fi ndings from of these implants is to widen the affected blood vessel. However, their use Working Area of Industrial explains Jung. For this reason, the cameras for the SPAI the previous project are to be used and the system further can result in damage to the endothelial lining, exposing the layer of smooth Robots (SPAI). Both projects project work with active illumination via devices known as developed. In addition to the Safety and Security Research muscle cells below. These cells begin to proliferate, causing a new blockage: are based on a custom-de- ring lights. These emit near-infrared rays that are invisible Institute and the DGUV, the company Schmersal, which restenosis. In order to exam this process better, a “scratch machine” was veloped camera system that to humans but that assist the cameras in reliable detection. specialises in safety and security technology, is participating developed in cooperation with Professor Kathrin Harre from the Dresden works with the near-infrared and carrying ten per cent of the project costs. “beyond- University of Applied Sciences. This machine simulates the scratching of the spectral range. In this range, SPAI“ will additionally be funded by the Federal Ministry stent on the inner wall of the blood vessel in the model. skin, regardless of type, sex of Education and Research in the scope of the “FHProfUnt and age, can be reliably Programme”. differentiated from other materials. 34 » research » research 35

The fruit of a highly ramified TREE Economic factor medical tourism Technical sustainability and technology acceptance research – To Germany for cancer therapy TREE Institute lays the basis for third research focus In 2004, the outlook was excellent: North-Rhine Westphalia Learning to deal with patients is important. With technical sustainability in focus, the Institute With currently around 20 actively participating profes- was at the top in medical tourism. But in the following of Technology, Resource and Energy-Efficient sors from a wide variety of departments and professional years, Bavaria overtook all other federal states. What “The majority of medical tourists come from Russia or the Engineering (TREE) is in touch with the times. groups, TREE emphasises interdisciplinary, application­ happened? How could NRW catch up? Jens Juszczak, Arab world”, explains Jens Juszczak. They have a concrete The institute serves as a platform for streamlined based research. A selection of ongoing projects: under academic staff member at Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, examined need for high-tech medicine, in oncology or neurosurgery interdisciplinary cooperation. Its wide range of the direction of Professor Alejandro Valenzuela sensors for this question. For over ten years, he has been working in for instance. To support them and acquire new patients, projects could make the world a little more sus- intelligent energy monitoring in large buildings are being the Department of Management Sciences on the topic many hospitals have now opened international offices. The

In 15 seconds … tainable in the future. developed. Professor Alexander Asteroth is working with of medical tourism. education and advanced training of staff is an important NRW Minister of Science, Svenja his team on efficient mobility concepts, while Professors component of the project. “Seminars on interacting with Schulze, learns more about TREE’s Technology should not be viewed in isolation but rather Stefanie Meilinger and Dieter Franke are dealing with The research project “Medical Tourism along the Rhine Arab patients are especially popular. We’ve organised them focuses from institute director, Dirk in interplay with people and the environment – under profit forecasts for photovoltaic modules. The team of Cologne – Bonn – Dusseldorf” was launched in January with some of the best practitioners in Germany.” Reith this premise, the university of applied sciences founded Professor Bernhard Möginger is researching the possibility 2012 to deliver answers. “The initial impulse came from the Institute of Technology, Resource and Energy-Efficient of real-time tracking of the hardening properties of dental the state of North-Rhine Westphalia”, explains the econ- To ensure further improvement, experts from the univer- Students have compiled a Engineering (TREE), established within the Department of components, so that the longevity of fillings can already be omist. Ultimately, many institutions benefit from patients sity in conjunction with TÜV Rheinland have developed a multimedia report on TREE: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Tech- ensured during treatment. from abroad, mainly hospitals, but also airports, hotels and standard for evaluating the quality of service offered by ÜÜhttp://technikjournalismus- nical Journalism. “TREE offers all scientists at the university rehabilitation centres. international offices. What especially pleases university hbrs.pageflow.io/tree-3282 a platform for dealing with topics related to technical Dirk Reith’s interests go beyond research on technical lecturer Juszczak: many of these offices are now directed sustainability”, explains Professor Dirk Reith, one of the sustainability. He would like to raise social awareness on “Taking Cologne, Bonn and Dusseldorf as models, we by his former students. ÜÜwww.h-brs.de/en/tree institute’s founding managing directors. this topic. “In the future, we also want to work on accept- developed and implemented innovative concepts. Thanks ance research and technological mediation. We believe to targeted marketing efforts, training, certificates and Even after the project comes to an end in March 2015, Interdisciplinary work: Scientists and researchers of TREE it’s important to disseminate these ideas in the region and networking, the Rhine region is in a much better posi- many different components of “Medical Tourism along the throughout society at large.” tion than it was three years ago”, says Jens Juszczak. The Rhine” will be carried forth. “Further education and certi- numbers confirm this: in the period from 2012 to 2013 fication”, named by Juszczak as examples, draw a positive NRW Minister of Science, Svenja Schulze, has already alone, the city of Cologne recorded a 51 per cent increase conclusion. “We have demonstrated that investments in shown great interest in the institute’s work. During a in inpatients from abroad, but Bonn and Dusseldorf also human resources and marketing show measurable success Research Exhibition on the occasion of the university’s 20th lay far above the national average (8 per cent), with 21 per very quickly. With research and our conference on medical anniversary celebration, TREE presented its diversity. By cent and 16 per cent, respectively. tourism, we’ve discovered a niche in which we’re national decision of the President’s Office, the institute has been leaders.” upgraded. Since 2015, it ranks among the central research facilities. This makes the field of technical sustainability, alongside security and visual computing, the university of applied science’s third research focus. 36 » research » research 37

Forward-looking and interdisciplinary The Department of Social Security Studies initiates a new discipline

Prominent Guest: Andrea More than a decade after its founding, the Depart- social security closer together and lay the basis for successful Graduate Institute NRW Nahles, Minister of ment of Social Security Studies is more current and interdisciplinary cooperation”, explains project coordinator Back in early 2014, the deans Labour and Social Affairs, active than ever. Rarely does a single department Iris Schuhmann. 86 authors contributed articles on interdis- and presidents of the univer- presents the department’s create an entirely new academic discipline. Now a ciplinary issues in the fi eld of social security. The complete sities of applied sciences in publication, “Handbuch new Master programme is preparing to carry the work with over 70 contributions was published by Springer NRW introduced the “Bonn Sozialversicherungs- university’s competencies into the world. VS Verlag. In just three months, the digital version received Declaration”, calling for wissenschaft”, together German Vice President at IIn 15 seconds … more than 40,000 call-ups for individual contributions. the development of a state- with project coordinator IEEE-RAS In 2003, Professor Günther Sokoll became founding dean wide graduate institute. The Iris Schuhmann (left) and For the fi rst time in the of the Department of Social Security Studies and developed On the occasion of the handbook’s publication, the depart- purpose was to consolidate Prof. Dr. Susanne Peters-Lange 30-year history of the IEEE the dual Bachelor programme Social Security Manage- ment organised a symposium on Social Security Studies at procedures for the coopera- (right) Robotics and Automation ment, focus Accident Insurance. His work forms the basis which the newly founded association “Forum Sozialver- tive conferral of doctorates at Society (RAS), a German has for the Master programme, launched in 2015, in Analysis sicherungswissenschaft e.V.” was introduced. “By estab- universities of applies scienc- been elected to the executive and Design of Social Protection Systems. Moreover, this lishing the association, we want to create an interdiscipli- es with other universities. committee. Since June 2015, was the start of a breakthrough that led to an entirely new nary forum to provide actors in science and practice with On 14th December 2015, Computer Science profes- academic fi eld: Social Security Studies in the form of an a joint platform for future exchange in the area of social the university administrator sor, Erwin Prassler, has been integrated discipline. security”, says Iris Schuhmann. signed an agreement that Vice President of what with laid the foundation for the its 11,000 members is the In order to drive this Contribution to global social Graduate Institute NRW. Of- world’s largest association development forward, “With the publication of the development fi cial launch was 1st January of engineers and comput- the Handbuch Sozialver- handbook, we want to overcome 2016; University President, er scientists in the fi eld of sicherungswissenschaft departmental boundaries, The new Master programme Anal- Hartmut Ihne, is a member robotics. During his term of (Handbuch on Social ysis and Design of Social Protection further develop social security systems responsibly. In addition to theoretical principles, of the board. The foundation offi ce, which lasts until 2017, Security Studies) was stimulate cross-disciplinary and Systems has an international focus. the degree course has a strong emphasis on practice. The communication skills and was preceded by the efforts he is member of the “Indus- published in September cross-institutional discourse, bring Coordinated by Professor Esther social competence of the future graduates also play a big role. of a task force. Involved were trial Activities” committee. 2015. “The handbook is individual players in social security Schüring, the three-semester consec- Vice President for Research More on the department and its new Master programme Prassler believes that it is the result of three years’ closer together and lay the basis utive degree course is aimed at and Young Academics, Prof. especially important to close work. With the publica- for successful interdisciplinary students who wish to deal with the Ü www.h-brs.de/en/analysis-and-design-social-protection-systems-ma Dr. Margit Geißler; Academic the gap between scientifi c tion of this handbook, cooperation.” analysis of social security systems. Director of the Graduate research and practical appli- we want to overcome The combination of on-campus Institute at the H-BRS, Prof. Project Coordinator Iris Schuhmann cation in the fi eld of robotics. departmental bounda- events and online courses offers Dr. Rainer Herpers, and Chief Moreover, he’d like to create ries, stimulate cross-dis- fl exibility, while ensuring suffi - Executive of the Graduate a global infrastructure to sup- ciplinary and cross-insti- cient opportunity for intercultural Institute, Dr. Rita Cornely. port start-ups in this fi eld. tutional discourse, bring exchange. The participants from 13 individual players in countries learn how to structure and Who likes to doubt him or herself? The feel- to receive thought-provoking impulses and expand doubting ing is unpleasant, and yet those who don’t our own understanding. The econometrician, Doubt regularly question the content and methods Stefan Freitag, is pioneering an especially extreme the magazine on this of their own approach to teaching to see approach at our university: the so-called Flipped what is retained – let alone what is applied Classroom. This approach fl ips the principle of makes us – are getting nowhere. We have to doubt transferring knowledge in the classroom and year’s theme ourselves before we’re ready to learn from practising and repeating it at home. Students use others. customised teaching materials, such as videos, to stronger prepare themselves before class. In the classroom, The principle of good academic teaching: we only topics that remain unclear are discussed. The must awaken doubts in students. They shouldn’t rest of the time is used to delve deeper into the by Iris Groß, Vice just accept what we set before them; they should topic with exercises. Another important point, President for Teaching critically question and contemplate it. Only in and a strength of our university, is the joint project this way will they reach a deeper level of under- work with students. Not only is this a completely and Learning standing. After all, constantly doubting what new kind of learning, but it’s also an opportu- appears to be true is the fi rst step toward science. nity for students to introduce and develop their As professors, we often try to cultivate a tradi- own ideas and express doubts that may not have tional, authoritarian style as if we alone possess occurred to us as lecturers. the truth. This frequently leads to what is termed “Easter Egg Didactics”: I have hidden knowledge and you have to search me for it. When we estab- lish a culture of genuine, open discussion instead, we become moderators, sometimes arbitrators or even participants ourselves. Spending less time talking is not just a relief, it also opens space for us … because I’m … because I have a disability the first in my Doubting Pascal Becker has Myoclonus Dystonia Syndrome (MDS) and studies Technical Journalism family to study } How does your disability restrict you? } Do you feel as though you receive suffi cient support from the the idea MDS is a very rare neurological disease. It causes me to cramp up suddenly university? Engineering professor, Elvira Jankowski, comes and sometimes twitch uncontrollably. At the beginning, the lecturers and university staff seemed doubtful. Many from a working-class family and is familiar with of them had never heard of MDS and didn’t know how to deal with it … but the problems and doubts of children who are the of a degree } Did you have doubts as to whether you’d be able to study at all? then they were all very open-minded – and that is still the case today. I get fi rst in their families to study. That’s why she has I believe that everyone has some doubt about and respect for what is friendly, helpful answers to my questions. I receive support, especially during contributed a video to the campaign “First at the course … expected at the university. But, of course, a disability makes you doubt the tests, more time for instance, or the option of taking an oral rather than a University”. “I recount how I traversed the path possibility of a degree even more. I was also afraid that my disability would written exam. This encourages me. from childhood to professor. I hope it encourages overshadow me as a person. I only want support when it’s necessary. That’s The Health and Disability Commissioner supports students and univer- other working-class children to follow their paths hard to recognise in the case of my disability because it’s less conspicuous. sity staff: and dare to study.” In addition to her video, the When I run into problems I have to talk to people directly and explain what I Ü www.h-brs.de/en/health-and-disability-commission campaign site profi les numerous other famous have. And I’m not sure how that is perceived. people, including Vice Chancellor Sigmar Gabriel, Federal Education Minister Johanna Wanka, and Dr. Thomas Enders, Chief Executive of Airbus. … because I have a small child Jankowski is currently establishing a network at Anna Sophia Stötzer is a single mother with a young daughter and studies Technical Journalism/PR the university to provide role models to children from working-class families and support them in } Q: Did you have doubts as to whether you could coordinate studies } What specifi cally took away your doubts? their studies, but she’d like to go one step further. and child? Before I commenced my studies, I sought advice from Barbara Michel at “Working-class children are just part of the story. I’d I was studying at another university when I became pregnant. After the the university’s HELP Counselling Centre. The support that HELP offers is great, like to encourage people with disabilities to study, birth of my daughter, I tried to continue my studies. I began to doubt that but the understanding and consideration I received from the lecturers and motivate women to take up technical disciplines, I could handle both – my old university didn’t really address my situation. I students also encouraged me. At the time of my transfer, my daughter was 6 and open universities to even more international plucked up my courage when I found out about the degree course in Tech- months old. After talking to the professors, I was even permitted to take her students. It’s about expelling all their doubts and nical Journalism from a friend and heard about the support the university of to classes with me. Later I got a spot for her in the Student Union kindergar- promoting diversity.” applied sciences offered to new parents. ten; the university was very accommodating. It would have been diffi cult to fi nd a kindergarten spot elsewhere for such a small child. More in the video: The Family Counselling Centre HELP supports students who have or Ü www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GdPw9UGofQ are expecting children by providing detailed information and confi - dential advice: www.h-brs.de/help Against our better judgement Productive state Methods of “The driving force behind social welfare is self-in- On the path to a more sustaina- gaining knowledge terest.” Unfortunately, this observation from the ble society, I always pack doubts. Pillars of good No doubt, no science. No father of political economy, Adam Smith (1723- science I can never be certain whether 1790), has held true. We know the sad result: my questions along the way doubt, no gain in knowl- As a radio astronomer, I climate change, species extinction and the global and the answers provided by my edge. Doubtless truisms that deal with assessing and water crisis are almost beyond repair. I doubt that data will lead me safely to my every scientist or anyone questioning observations, a timely reversal is possible. A cheap fl ight south destination. A hint of scepticism involved in science would possible detections and and a large portion of meat apparently help us to and insecurity always remains. agree with. But does doubt their signifi cance every day. overlook existential scientifi c facts. Max Frisch keeps me from ever extend beyond the Questioning also means doubt- despairing. He says, “A crisis is constant struggle for knowl- Rosemarie Stibbe, Professor for Business ing. Did we measure correctly? Were a productive state. You simply edge or content and the Administration, Controlling and Sustainable the instruments functioning properly? have to get rid of its aftertaste like, to the question of what Management Is the calibration correct? This helps us interpret of catastrophe.” This guides me: the appropriate methods for results critically and stimulates scientifi c debate, which in turn doubts steer me toward asking gaining knowledge are? The ensures high quality research. I believe that doubting, along with better questions. fact is: we can’t calculate diligence, curiosity and perseverance, is one of the four pillars of “good” and “evil”. Waiting for the Babel fish good science. Christian H. Meyer, Research- er at the International Centre Volker Kronenberg, Pro- When the Internet era dawned in the early 1990s, Bernd Klein, Professor for Digital Signal Processing and for Sustainable Development fessor for Political Science Wolfgang Wahlster, Director of the German Re- Radio Astronomy Instrumentation and Head of the Division (IZNE) search Centre for Artifi cial Intelligence (DFKI), said for Digital Signal Processing (DSP) at the Max Planck Insti- he wanted to translate spoken Japanese automat- tute for Radio Astronomy in Bonn ically into German. Returning from a one-year trip to Japan, I knew what computers were capable of and had massive doubts as to whether automatic Gender research and comfort level translation would ever be possible. Today, thanks Gender research is an ideal instrument for calling existing knowl- Doubting for justice in part to the World Wide Web, computers have edge into question, doubting in order to expose the blind spots Jurisprudence doesn’t want simple answers, but rather si- access to enormous quantities of data that provide that arise because the experiences of women or of people with Room for interpretation multaneously searches in the answer for justice. But what is them with the context they need to understand different social or cultural backgrounds are overlooked. By doubt- Over many research parameters we have no infl uence. justice? Can norms and laws create justice? And moreover, language. If I’m not mistaken, I can now look ing the standard settings of offi ce air conditioning systems, two That’s why it’s important to question measurement results can those responsible, those who apply the law, guarantee forward to my own personal Babel fi sh, the trans- Dutch biologists in 2015 fi nally answered the question as to why critically. In detection technology, for instance, we work justice? As a legal scholar I doubt the meaning of my disci- lation creature from Douglas Adams’ A Hitchhiker’s women tend to freeze in the offi ce. Conventional air conditioning with tracking dogs. This leaves even more room for pline. If it doesn’t (only) stand for justice, then it must have Guide to the Galaxy. systems were developed by men for men, according to their com- interpretation than technical systems do. I think we other functions. In the search for answers lie the doubts of Andreas Hense, Professor for Business Infor- fort levels. The devices were set far too cold for women. should always entertain doubts about the accuracy a science! mation Systems Susanne Keil, Professor for Journalism and Online Journal- of any statements made and exercise caution when Susanne Peters-Lange, Professor for Law and Social ism representing something as fact. LegislationThe search for substance Peter Kaul, Professor for Physics, Statistics and Measurement Technology In fact, online media must first at least partially emulate the quality and The search standards of print media. An obligatory framework exists for print media, expressed in the education and experience of the journalists, the press for substance code and everything that stands behind it. These kinds of ethical standards must also be established for the net. The issue of quality in online journal- ism is especially urgent because we’re currently experiencing a period of University President Hartmut Ihne and transformation. More and more publishing houses are struggling to keep Director of the Grimme Institute Frauke their printed daily newspapers afloat and switching over to online media. Gerlach: Print or net – the same journalistic standards must apply. The Gerlach discuss the challenges of digital Press Council needs to refine the Press Code for online journalists. A good enlightenment orientation would be if online journalists would publicly acknowledge these standards so that we, as users, could clearly see who follows them. }}Do you doubt the quality of the media? I agree with Mr. Ihne: The biggest difference between online and classic Dr. Frauke Gerlach: The Grimme Institute watches the quality of the media is the real-time communication. These time restrictions place the media, be it TV, Internet or radio. Quality is not, however, an established media under tremendous pressure. Another difference is the “bi-direc- term. It depends on social values and norms. What can be said, what not, tionality”. Users are no longer silent consumers. They can create pressure aesthetic impressions and the underlying technology – all this influences through feedback in the form of opinions and comments. Users are in a our assessment of quality. You can observe this in television films and much stronger position to influence the images that are made and con- series. Over the course of time and through changing generations, a signif- veyed from reality than they were during the time of “letters to the editor”. icant transformation is apparent. That’s why quality also means innovation to us. In journalistic media, we also attach great importance to careful }}Is the Internet a vehicle of disinformation? research and respect for the principles of the Press Code. Gerlach: The net is an outstanding vehicle of disinformation. It’s often Prof. Hartmut Ihne: Good research forms the basis for quality. Is it hard to recognise this though because we’re bombarded with so much documented, thorough and transparent? Is it possible to verify what was and such a variety of information, and manipulating images and content said? Or is the text an interpretation, arising from a certain inclination or is so easy. Apparently human nature is such that disinformation solidifies conviction of the journalist? What worldviews and values are being con- and becomes “truth” the more claims and assertions that circulate. The veyed? Does the writing marginalise; is it racist? The ethical dimension of opportunity for mass mobilisation makes the Internet the perfect medium truthfulness is especially important for quality. Moreover, structural and for manipulation. aesthetic qualities are involved that we’re not addressing here. Ihne: Added to that, the huge quantity of information in the web makes us believe we’re very close to the action. And we all have opinions }}What differences in quality do you see between classic media on everything, but these opinions are based on the reporting rather than and online media? on our own experience or knowledge. This results in a fatal mixture: we Ihne: The biggest difference is the speed with which online media believe we’re in the middle of events and express our opinions about makes information available and simultaneously generates a constant them, while in truth we’re only in the middle of a reality created by those demand for new information. This places journalists under tremendous who rule the net. pressure because it limits the amount of time that can be spent on research and fact checking. New quality guidelines must be developed. } Q: The Internet seems to know no } What will happen long-term with the urge to boundaries and offers anonymity at the read and spread snippets of news round the same time. What does that mean? clock? Ihne: That’s a double-edged sword. On the one Ihne: It’s comparable to an addiction, always hand, anonymity protects people living under dic- wanting to be up-to-date on the latest talk. This tatorships and other autocratic systems when they produces lots of hot air but no gain in knowledge – want to communicate freely. On the other hand, not even good entertainment. We need to remember anonymity in the net becomes a problem when that the success of the Western world was built on hate comments and similar discourse is consid- the search for substance, the essence of things, the ered. Hate in the net could probably be minimised constant among the changing. The incessant fl ow of if everyone had to write openly under real names. information and nearly unlimited opportunities for Then things would be litigable, too. Transparency spreading it via the Internet merely simulate reality plays a role in other areas, as well. When I see who and let this search run dry. If we give up on the idea The Grimme Institute has access to my data without my knowledge, let of pursuing substance, of understanding the essence The Grimme Institute in Marl, North alone my permission, I feel uneasy. of things, in favour of the steady fl ow of a colourful Rhine-Westphalia, deals with ques- Gerlach: If the state had access to all its citi- surface of words and images, then we’re giving up tions involving media culture and zens’ information, that would confl ict with Basic the core that led to the success of European culture perceives itself as a forum for the Law, in particular with the concept of human and the fundamental rights of the individual har- debate on communication policy in dignity pursuant to Article 1 paragraph 1 and with boured within it. Germany. Theoretical and practical personal freedoms, Article 2 paragraph 1. The media education is also among right to informational self-determination grew out its tasks, for which the Institute of the census boycott movement of the 1980s. observes, analyses and evaluates The current Data Retention Directive weakens media services and products – from } Aren’t users part of this reality and helping Ihne: We must create rights and laws for the these basic rights. But state access is just one television and radio to multimedia. to shape it? web without overly restricting it in the process. dimension. Another appears when companies like Best known to the public are the Gerlach: In fact, the net is an outstanding It’s interesting to see how all that we’ve achieved Google or Facebook tap into this data. If we more Institute’s two prestigious quality platform for social communication. It provides during the enlightenment process in the analogue or less volunteer this data in exchange for services, competitions: the Grimme Prize for an easily accessible, cheap way for us to become world, all the constitutional law and human rights then the basic right to informational self-deter- exemplary contributions to television involved, arrange demonstrations and fl ash mobs, we’ve codifi ed, seem to play a subordinate role in mination remains untouched; also because basic and the Grimme Online Award for and also spread information. The prime example is the net. With Facebook, e-mails and all our other rights generally regulate the relationship between outstanding quality in the Internet. the whistleblower: the Internet makes it possible user accounts, we “live” in the Internet without citizen and state. If, however, this information is In June 2016, the Grimme Online to access confi dential information that is relevant the right to inviolability of the home. Digital en- not suffi ciently protected from being accessed Award will be conferred for the 15th to the public, and this same medium enables us to lightenment, meaning the application and secur- by state intelligence apparatuses and economic time. make this information widely available. I think that ing of Basic Law and human rights in their entirety interests, then it becomes a matter for the Europe- Ü www.grimme-institut.de we need to develop a digital value system for the in the Internet, is one of the major tasks. It cannot an Court of Justice. Europe, as a major player, can net. Among other issues, more pressure must be be postponed! heavily infl uence the future development of the exerted on social media to stop offering a platform Internet. For this to function, society must show for racist and other extremist commentary. interest; no laws can be written without a social base. Programme Head of Forensic No doubts from the students, but what Those who know a lot can boast. But Biology, Professor does the academic statements don’t always stand up to a Richard Jäger, confronts community say? fact check. Below are some impressive doubts about the image of forensics. In many crime In the beginning, there were True facts about the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein- series, the forensic expert some doubts about the forensic Sieg - University of Applied Sciences plays a central role. Do we expertise of the lecturers. – true or false? We leave you room to need to doubt this portrayal They’re not all true forensic doubt: of the profession? or scientists, how should they Scouts from Menden are responsible for the In fi lms, forensic scientists are all-round experts. teach, let alone conduct name of the street on which the Sankt Au- They investigate the crime scene, collect scores research, on the topic? In the False? gustin Campus is located: Grantham Allee. of samples as evidence, interview suspects meantime, thanks to numer- and carry out tests in the lab. This image of ous research activities, we’ve forensics belongs in the scriptwriter’s imaginary Scientists at the university are planning an won the respect of this special world. Reality looks different: forensic experts interdisciplinary project to fi nd a way to make community. We cooperate with in Germany, if they specialise in criminolo- coffee more effective without changing its forensic laboratories in biology gy, are laboratory scientists. They carry out taste. and with a state offi ce of crim- chemical and toxicological analyses, identify inal investigation. At the Safety DNA traces or examine substances – all exciting and Security Research Institute,

The university is part of a globally successful tasks. interpretation. pressing forensic topics are

computer game.

this proposed topic! proposed this

order to leave room for for room leave to order What do students say about being worked on. This brings

welcome to take up up take to welcome offi cial meaning in in meaning cial offi this gap? Do they begin to teaching closer to practice

Rhein-Sieg. But you’re you’re But Rhein-Sieg. intentionally given no no given intentionally The circles in the university logo have no doubt their choice of degree and helps build contacts with

the Hochschule Bonn- Hochschule the Stender, the logo was was logo the Stender, special meaning. programme? companies in the branch. This

a topic of research at at research of topic a

ty chancellor Hans Hans chancellor ty . We clearly communicate how the degree is rewarding for us as scientists

coffee has never been been never has coffee

to former universi- former to programme is structured and what the career as well as for the students and

2.) False. Unfortunately Unfortunately False. 2.)

4.) True. According According True. 4.) involves. The image propagated through tele- their career prospects.

of Lincolnshire. of game. vision may be the source of initial interest, but

located in the county county the in located a decisive role in the the in role decisive a the low dropout rate clearly shows that reality

Grantham. The town is is town The Grantham. ogy, which later plays plays later which ogy, bears up to expectations. There are only a few Thatcher was born in in born was Thatcher

controversial technol- controversial openings in criminal forensics, but we prepare “TV forensic For experts: Margaret Margaret experts: For 2016 on the topic of of topic the on 2016 students for work in many difference areas of

led to a town twinning. twinning. town a to led Bonn-Rhein-Sieg in in Bonn-Rhein-Sieg analytics. They learn the fundamentals of biol-

in an exchange, which which exchange, an in

at the Hochschule Hochschule the at ogy and methods of analysis. At the same time experts don’t

Grantham participated participated Grantham talk held by a scientist scientist a by held talk they deal with the important aspect of quality

the English town of of town English the references to a fi ctional ctional fi a to references assurance, such as the problems that could

from Menden and and Menden from

Revolution”, you’ll fi nd nd fi you’ll Revolution”, arise due to faulty documentation or lack of exist in real

mid-1970s, scouts scouts mid-1970s, “Deus Ex: Human Human Ex: “Deus reproducibility? Examples of applied forensics 1.) True. In the the In True. 1.)

3.) True. In the game game the In True. 3.) are also part of the curriculum. life.” 50 live Course set for digital services

Campus life: the Christmas market in Sankt Augustin draws many visitors Universities in Germany fi nd themselves in a period of profound Another trend is cooperation management. Last year, we gained change. Multifaceted issues confront students and staff with new important partners and successfully paved the way for projects. challenges as social trends seep into university life. The prime We are also one of the very few universities of applied sciences example is digitalisation, which is increasingly permeating all areas in Germany to have formed a partnership with the Max-Planck of the university. Buzzwords, such as digitalisation and lifelong Institute for Radio Astronomy – a cooperation that will be utilised learning, are discussed in all their complexity; the requirements are and expanded to its full potential. One of the university’s professors constantly being raised. is now working as Division Head at the Max-Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy within the scope of this cooperation. A joint This calls for administration and management to develop into appointment with another external research institute is in planning. an academic-promoting service structure that works closely with scientists and lecturers at the university to tackle and implement The H-BRS also scored points on future issue number one: new projects. Initial steps have been taken by increasing human sustainability. The Rheinbach and Sankt Augustin campuses are now resources, but enormous efforts are still required to master the equipped with EV charging stations. An electric-powered BMWi3 At home in a foreign land The consequences of your actions wide-ranging and demanding tasks. is available as a service vehicle for university staff, and the number Syrian studies with DAAD scholarship at the University takes part in European Sustainability of bike racks at the Sankt Augustin Campus has been increased. To deal with the issue of “digitalisation” professionally, a Chief Rheinbach Campus » 52 Week » 55 In addition, new buildings for Rheinbach and Sankt Augustin are Information Manager has been appointed. Together with the Centre Exchanging experiences, building bridges Pitching in being constructed in line with the strict requirements for category for Campus-IT and those responsible for IT in the departments, the Silver of the BNB, a rating system for sustainable building compiled Implementing new media in teaching – workshop University fl ies the fl ag for refugees » 59 experts, in close cooperation with the chancellor and the university for lecturers at the University of Cape Coast, by the Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation, Small prick, big impact administration, are leading the H-BRS into its digital future. Top Ghana » 53 Building and Nuclear Safety. Groundbreaking begins in April 2016, priorities are to expand and upgrade the university information An alumna has developed a blood alcohol test and kicking of the visible phase of the construction project. Pushed to the limit registered it for a patent » 60 system, provide campus-wide WiFi access, and update digital Athlete network supports rising sports stars » 54 Keep in Touch services for students. Dr. Michaela Schuhmann Chancellor Over 10,000 alumni – the university invites graduates to a reunion and further education » 62 52 » live » live 53

At home in a foreign land Exchanging experiences, building bridges Syrian studies with DAAD scholarship at the Rheinbach Campus Implementing new media in teaching – workshop for lecturers at the University of Cape Coast, Ghana

“No, I’m not a refugee”, Mounera Jbara often has to Mounera Jbara is happy to be one of the 271 who made In 2012, nearly 29% of university students in Ghana were explain when her classmates hear she is from Syria. She has the leap to Germany, but she worries about those she left unemployed for up to two years after graduation. How can been spared the experience of smugglers, overcrowded behind. Her parents still live in Damascus. “Of course I’m this pressing issue even be approached? In the degree courses accommodations, and the permanent fear of being sent worried about them”, she says. “I call my mother every themselves, answers Regina Brautlacht, coordinator of the home – she came to Germany on an official visa. Excellent morning and evening and hope that everything is OK. English programme at the Language Centre. To this end, she grades, persuasiveness, and a fair amount of luck brought led a workshop in March 2015, for lecturers at the University her here. The 24-year-old was chosen by the German Mounera Jbara has been in Germany since June 2015. She of Cape Coast (UCC) in Ghana, one of the H-BRS’s partner Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for the schloarship first spent three months at a language school in Marburg universities, within the scope of the DAAD-funded programme programme “Leadership for Syria”. After completing the with other students on the scholarship. “I lived with a “German-Africa University Partnership Platform for the Devel- Bachelor programme in Pharmacy, she would like to stay German family. It was a great experience”, she recounts. opment of Entrepreneurs and Small/Medium Enterprises”. “Up on at the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg to earn a Master’s Since the beginning of September, she has been living in to now, teaching methods in Ghana have focused heavily on degree in Biomedical Sciences. North-Rhine Westphalia, 4,000 kilometres from home, but theory,” says Brautlacht. “Together in the workshop, we devel- in safety. oped approaches for effectively integrating practical work into Due to the war in her home country, teaching is no longer the curriculum.” A DAAD scholarship makes it possible at most universities. As a result, 5,000 young “I like the university, the lectures and the teaching staff”, possible: Mounera Jbara is studying people have applied for the DAAD scholarship programme. says the Syrian enthusiastically. She doesn’t feel foreign Flipped Classroom model Biomedical Science in Rheinbach here either: on campus one in eight students has a “Building a Bridge” project, initiated by Regina Brautlacht and non-German passport. International students are given The focus of this workshop: contact with new media. A lot of Daniel Agyapong from the UCC. Via digital media like Skype, extra support, in the form of Study Buddies, for instance. information is available and searched for digitally, a trend that Facebook and WhatsApp, 30 students each from the German Buddies help the students find their way around the lecturers must respond to. In the workshop, Regina Brautlacht and Ghanaian universities discuss topics such as their studies, campus, become accustomed to routine procedures, and introduced the “Flipped Classroom” model, in which students cultural identity and traditions. feel at home in their new surroundings. Mounera Jbara’s research material online, then adapt it themselves for use in buddy is from Uzbekistan. She is also studying Biomedical the seminar. The learning-by-doing method is an integral part In 2015, the theme was entrepreneurship: students conducted Sciences but has already completed her first year. of this approach. “It’s important to work through abstract a survey on country-specific concepts of entrepreneurship, the concepts in a real-world context”, says Brautlacht. “When results were compiled in Wikis, interactive online systems. This After graduating, the young Syrian can remain in Germany students work on developing a topic themselves, they under- hands-on project also gave students the opportunity to famil- to earn her doctorate or look for a job. But the idea of stand it better.” Lecturers – in Ghana as well as at other H-BRS iarise themselves with online tools. At the same time, they built staying in Germany forever is not an option for Mounera partner universities throughout Sub-Saharan Africa – are open a virtual bridge of communication between the universities, Jbara. She wants to return to Syria for one simple reason: to this approach. In fact, a workshop at the University of Nairobi enabling them to gather intercultural experience and commu- “It’s my home”. in Kenya is being planned for August 2016. nicate in English. This is not always easy since both technolog- ical difficulties and the language barrier must be surmounted. Exchange is not only being promoted among lecturers. Students Regina Brautlacht sees this as an added value: “There are many in Economics and Management Sciences at the H-BRS and the hurdles, but once these are overcome, everyone benefits from UCC have networked every year since 2014, at the ten-week the cooperation.” 54 » live » live 55

Pushed to the limit The consequences of your actions Athlete network supports rising sports stars University takes part in European Sustainability Week

Since 2006, the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein Sieg }}What are the solutions? The practice of social engagement has long been European Dialogue More on European has been cooperating with the Olympic Centre Since 2006, the university and the Olympic Centre established in the business world –from the plan- Sustainability Week: Rhineland (OSP) to boost support for competitive Rhineland (OSP) have been bound together by a contract. ning of environmentally-friendly logistical pro- The “European Dialogue Project” also drew on the ÜÜhttp://bit.ly/1T5QtQR athletes who are studying. Professor Iris Groß, Vice As a result, we can better accommodate top athletes’ cesses, to the development of employee-friendly learning-by-doing method. Students from the university President for Teaching and Learning, helps ensure schedules. Despite frequent absence due to competitions working times. It is, therefore, important to begin discussed issues online with 20 fellow students each from that both learning and training are possible and training camps or courses, they can still graduate with- raising awareness for sustainable business man- Italy, Portugal and France. Together they worked on ques-

In 15 seconds … through offers such as the new Athlete Network, in a reasonable timeframe. It’s all about flexibility. Not every In 15 seconds … agement among the leaders of tomorrow while tionnaires about responsible consumption, recycling and which enables sports officials, athletes and repre- course has attendance requirements. Students can make they are still studying. social justice, the answers to which will be published in a sentatives of the university to exchange ideas and up for missed coursework on their own time. If an athlete is compendium. “On the basis of theoretical knowledge in experiences. at a training camp in Barcelona, then the exam can be sent You don’t know what the consequences of your own actions communications teaching, the students gain practical inter- to the university there where the student can take it. We will be, said Mahatma Ghandhi – but if you do nothing, cultural skills”, according to Regina Brautlacht. }}Competitive sports and studying – are they just have to come up with the idea; the Athlete Network nothing changes. So in 2015, Germany, France, and Austria compatible? helps in this regard. initiated the first European Sustainability Week, which Impromptu speeches on CSR They have to be because the time in which an athlete focuses on the United Nations Sustainable Development can compete professionally is limited. Unless you’re a }}What exactly happens in the network? Goals and promotes activities on sustainable development. Rhetorical finesse was also in focus at the third sustainability football player, you probably won’t be able to earn a living Once per semester, I meet with the young athletes, rep- As one of two German initiatives, the Language Centre, the project. At a meeting of the club “Toastmasters Bonn”, through sports long-term. Athletes need prospects for their resentatives of the AStA-Sportsreferat (General Students’ International Centre for Sustainable Development (IZNE), graduates who had started businesses faced off with life after sports, and a university degree is a good basis. Committee - Sports Department), the career advisor at OSP, and the student initiative “SAg! Nachhaltigkeit” (“SAy! impromptu speeches on the topic of corporate social respon- Christian Heimann, for instance, one of the ten fastest and the director of the Competitive Sports Centre Bonn/ Sustainability”) from the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg partic- sibility. They took the opportunity to make new contacts on German hurdlers, is studying Business Management with Rhein-Sieg. We think about how to assist these athletes, ipated from 30th May to the 5th June. the basis of their interests in sustainable business culture. us because he’d like to work in sports management in the and not only in terms of their studies. In the future, our future. PR Department will offer training for athletes on dealing Sustainability Conference More activities: with journalists. Another big topic is sponsorship. We as a ÜÜwww.h-brs.de/en/izne/student-initiative-sag-nach- }}How do the young athletes manage both? university can use our business contacts to bring athletes One of three university projects over the course of Sustaina- haltigkeit Top athletes push themselves to the limit. This holds true and sponsors together. bility Week was an English-language conference, organised for both physical performance and time management. Foil by the Business English seminar. “The seminar is an intro- fencer Sebastian Bachmann, who studied Business Informa- duction to entrepreneurship and sustainability”, says Regina tion Systems with us, trained up to six days a week and had Brautlacht, coordinator for English at the Language Centre. to travel a lot. Taekwondo martial artist, Yanna Schneider, The students discuss, among other issues, corporate social took part in competitions in over 20 countries in 2015, and responsibility and ecological assessment. They also founded wants to qualify for the 2020 Olympic Games. Her degree fictitious businesses that would trade sustainably. Through course in Business Psychology will take the back burner, the concrete application of economic theory, they not only and it isn’t easy to organise both simultaneously. On behalf learned to communicate professionally and internationally, of the university, we want to help find solutions. but also sharpened their awareness of sustainability. Annette Menke, biology professor and official appointee for diversity at the H-BRS, firmly believes that diversity is not just a challenge but also an enrichment.

When biology professor Annette Menke talks about diversity, her own experience comes to the fore. “I was the first in my family to attend university“, says the official appointee for diversity at the H-BRS. First-generation students lack role models and the backing of family if doubts about their studies arise. National backgrounds, bodily constraints, or any other types of barriers to studying, the university takes away any doubts that either first-year or more advanced students may have. “In order to raise awareness for heterogeneity among students and staff, we’ve planned many events on the topic of diversity. As a university, we ultimately have much more to teach than just course material”, stresses Menke. 58 » live » live 59

Pitching in University flies the flag for refugees

A Technical Journalism student from Sankt Augus- The Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg also has a presence on Study Buddy Special tin has voluntarily programmed a homepage for the website. “We see it as part of our duty to contribute Dinner regional refugee relief. Bonn-Rhein-Sieg has also to integration and offer what we as a university are good opened up its extracurricular activity programme at”, says Professor Jürgen Bode, Vice President for Interna- to refugees and is helping to solve the language tional Affairs and Diversity. This includes didactic courses issue. at the Language Centre for volunteers who want to teach

In 15 seconds … German as well as helping to find translators among the The need is great, but so is the willingness to help. In order vast pool of international students. The university has also Fit at Work Don’t miss your call Polyphonic Repertoire to assist refugees in Germany effectively, volunteers and opened up its sports activities to refugees. No budget has those in need must be brought together to coordinate their yet been set aside for refugee relief, says Bode, but thanks Yoga, Tibetan healing yoga, back Beeping pierces the lecture hall; a Dirk Eisenack regularly signals for efforts. Stefan Schurr, a Technical Journalism student in his to the dedication of volunteers and a few donations from More than 70 Study Buddies exercises … just some of the various student rushes out. Not a call for a action, too. He doesn’t need a beep- third semester, is tackling the problem in the region. He has businesses, many things are possible. volunteer at the university. sports classes offered free to univer- ban on mobile phones in class, but er; he uses his hands. And sounds built a website for the Evangelical parish of Sankt Augustin. They help international sity staff. “We want to promote the an emergency call. Run to the dress- already fills the auditorium, first loud, It lists offers and contacts, ranging from language courses Where help is needed and what the university can achieve students to find flats, open physical, mental and spiritual health ing room in Block A, put on your uni- then quiet, definitely polyphonic. and sewing workshops, to legal advice. Schnurr checks is discussed in the refugee relief steering group. Members bank accounts and deal with of our employees”, says Chancellor form, boots and helmet, then sprint Around 20 singers form the core of his e-mails daily, in which new offers are announced. The of the President’s Office, the departments and the student government agencies at the Dr. Michaela Schuhmann. At all three to the car park next to the main the university choir “HörsaalEINS”. website also features useful tips and checklists, along with committee, as well as representatives from the commu- start of their studies and in campuses, courses are held at lunch- building where the bright red emer- They study or work at the university, the option to donate money, time or goods, as well as nity, the district, the church and the job centre sit down their new daily routine. The time and after work. Demand was gency vehicle is waiting. The univer- are former students or even people requests for donations. together at the table. university shows its appre- so high that after the pilot phase, sity fire department is on call during unaffiliated with the H-BRS. Over the ciation: the students were the number of courses on offer was the day as volunteer fire brigade (FF) past ten years, a sizeable repertoire Stefan Schnurr came up with the idea after the parish Alongside immediate needs, the long-term question very pleased to be invited to increased from 4 to 18. In 2016, an for Sankt Augustin. This special duty has been built up. At the anniversary called for volunteers to help with the refugees. At a of whether refugees will study at the university arises. a champagne reception and even wider selection of courses is was set up because the volunteer concert on 26th September 2015, 20 meeting with the local pastor, the question arose as to Prospective students have received career counselling, dinner in the refectory at planned. fire brigade of Sankt Augustin was pieces were performed, ranging from what he could contribute. “I don’t want parallel commu- but as of yet no applications have been submitted. Jürgen Rheinbach. “With this spe- understaffed, especially during the Renaissance dance music to current nities to develop, so I have to take personal responsibility”, Bode explains, “The reason for this is that candidates for cial evening we were able to day. In the year of the initiative’s 10th pop arrangements. “Music brings says the student. As volunteer helpers across the region German-speaking courses must first learn the language, express our gratitude”, say anniversary, 14 students now carry people together. It strengthens the were not networked in any way, it made sense to him to which is estimated to take one to two years.” Adelheid Korpp and Sabrina a beeper. But studies still come first. community by involving students use his expertise in programming. Sadowski from the Interna- An emergency call is no excuse for from all departments over a long More on refugee initiatives: tional Office. “We’d like to skipping an exam. period of time”, says choirmaster ÜÜwww.sanktaugustinhilftfluechtlingen.de do it again”. Dirk Eisenack. ÜÜwww.h-brs.de/en/refugee-initiative-h-brs 60 » live » live 61

Alumna in the spotlight Von uns, für uns – from us, for us: Small prick, big impact an analogue fl yer advertises digital innovation An alumna has developed a blood alcohol test and registered it for a patent

Elina Zailer, a graduate of the Hochschule Bonn- student of “Analytical Chemistry and Quality Assurance”, The alumna of the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg supported H-BRS-Intranet Rhein-Sieg, developed a new method for testing she took a job there in the lab and further developed her him in scientifi c matters. Whether or not the new method VON blood alcohol levels as part of her Bachelor’s method, ultimately enabling Spectral Service to apply for will become standard procedure remains to be seen. Elina für Mitarbeitende der thesis. To ensure that it will be legally recognised a patent. She now works at the company as a study and Zailer: “The road is long. In the end, it’s a matter of gaining Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg in the future, it is being presented in January project director, evaluating lab samples for clients and trust, and that won’t be not easy”. UNS 2016 at the 54th annual German Traffi c Court Day researching methods on, for instance, the better and faster

In 15 seconds … organised by the German Council on Jurisdiction analysis of cooking oils. “This combination of routine and in Traffi c. research is perfect for me”, says Elina Zailer, who is also FÜR working on her PhD at the University of Würzburg. One small prick and the blood sample is taken. “Any police offi cer who gets traffi c offenders to blow into a breatha- For the fact that her blood test method has not been A single drop of blood UNS lyser on the side of the road could do this”, says Elina Zailer. shelved, she has a contact from her Bachelor suffi ces to prove the presence If only the courts approve the method. At the moment it is studies to thank. Hinrich de Vries, presiding of alcohol via nuclear Jetzt online unter: not that simple. The driver must see a health offi cer, who judge at the District Court Bonn, held magnetic resonance (NMR). www.h-brs.de/intranet then takes a full vial of blood. That’s how much is needed lectures on law as part of her Bach- to conduct a conventional blood alcohol test involving gas elor programme. He was quite chromatography in the lab. interested in Zailer’s work 22.10.15 13:57 on proving the presence New website and intranet for employees An easier way exists, as Elina Zailer demonstrated in her of alcohol in the blood Modern, responsive and with a clear layout – this is the impression Bachelor’s thesis in Forensic Sciences. A small drop of through NMR, wrote Intranet_Typo I_1.indd 1 given by the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg’s new website. Since Feb- blood suffi ces to prove the presence of alcohol via nuclear articles for scientifi c ruary 2015, it’s also optimised for smartphones and tablets, which is magnetic resonance (NMR). This technique stimulates the journals on the topic, especially attractive to current and prospective students. The re-launch cell nuclei in the sample by means of a magnetic fi eld. and expounded the has paid off: in the fi rst quarter, the number of visitors to the website Because each substance reacts differently to this procedure, advantages of this increased by ten per cent. A new platform for staff is available now the various substances can be identifi ed – and in just three method at the 54th too: the H-BRS Intranet. This new internal portal keeps staff members minutes. The conventional method of analysis takes at least annual German updated on university news, events and appointments. An address ten minutes. Traffi c Court book lists the names and positions of all university employees; internal Day, organised job vacancies are also posted. Under the heading “Hochschule A–Z”, For Elina Zailer’s procedure, however, the necessary by the German Master programme alumna, Elina all important documents are available for download. technology is required. That is why the analyst, now 26 Council on Juris- Zailer, is earning her doctorate at Ü www.h-brs.de/en years old, cooperated with Spectral Service, a company diction in Traffi c the University of Würzburg. in Cologne, for her Bachelor’s thesis. Later as a Master’s in January 2016. Ü www.h-brs.de/en/intranet 62 » live » live 63

Fill ‘er up, please: Keep in Touch Rainer Gleß, Tech- Over 10,000 alumni – the university invites graduates to a reunion and further education nical Adjunct Sankt Augustin, Marcus Lübken, EVG Director In the 20 years since its founding, the Hochschule “Managers without Borders”. A graduate of the Technical and Chancellor Dr. Bonn-Rhein-Sieg – University of Applied Scienc- Journalism programme spoke about his career as Head of Michaela Schuhmann es has graduated more than 10,000 students. Communications for a large advertising agency. (left) offi cially open Through its alumni network, the university stays the EV charging in touch with many of them and keeps them up The Alumni Management wants to keep alumni in the stations. to date on new courses of study, current research university’s extensive network, as friends in businesses

In 15 seconds … projects and staff appointments via newsletter. and organisations and as role models for current students. The “Hall of Fame” on the website features A later Master programme or theses, joint research and alumni profi les to demonstrate the wide variety of development projects – many points of mutual interest career paths travelled by H-BRS graduates. Around make staying in contact benefi cial to both sides. And the 1,500 alumni have joined the social media groups. university doesn’t just have local alumni in its sights. With funding from the German Academic Exchange Service To mark its 20th anniversary in June 2015, the university (DAAD), 24 international graduates from four different invited alumni to a large reunion. Around 160 graduates departments and 18 different countries returned to the from all departments came to visit their old alma mater H-BRS for an alumni conference. and swap experiences over an informal brunch at the Sankt Augustin Campus. “There were, in fact, graduates from The individual departments also foster contact to their each of our 20 years”, says alumni coordinator Barbara alumni – the Computer Science Department, for instance. Wieners-Horst happily. In short presentations, a number In 2015, for a second time, an opportunity for advanced of alumni reported on their career paths. One former training was held before the long-established informal Management Sciences student told of her involvement in Alumni Come Together (ACT). This programme includes lectures by members of the university and alumni on topics ranging from aerodynamics to the implementation of 3D Sustainably on-the-go computer game technologies in product development. In 2015, the Hochschule Bonn- who come to Sankt Augustin by hooked up to the university’s green Alumnus Oliver Zilken, received a great response to his Rhein-Sieg was one of the fi rst e-bike, can charge at one of seven power grid, which gleans energy interactive speech on agile project management in a food German institutes of higher edu- e-stations. In addition, sheltered from its own solar panels. In late company, which involved audience participation with balls. cation to install public EV charging racks provide space for 100 bikes, 2015, the university purchased an “It’s about fostering contacts, but also an exchange of stations. On the Rheinbach and inviting students and staff to hop e-car for staff commuting among ideas between the departments and graduates,” says Uta Sankt Augustin campuses, students onto the saddle, be it e-bike or its three campuses. Future plan: Wünsche-Preuß, one of the organisers of the ACT. and university employees can plug pedal powered. Doubly sustainable e-bikes for hire to employees for Explore the alumni website (English): in their electric cars at one of the is the term for the facilities at the the commute to work. two available “e-pumps”. Those Sankt Augustin campus. They are Ü www.h-brs.de/en/alumni 64 collaborate Signals from Space Max-Planck Institute cooperates with the H-BRS » 66 Science campus and Work, the purpose of life? Three universities of applied sciences – international alliances one lecture series » 67 Robots for nursing homes

With vision: Engineers and long-term care The H-BRS wants to make full use of the potential created by International Affairs: The university wants to continue to expand researchers seek optimal assistants » 68 universities of applied cooperating with regional research institutes, the community, its network abroad and pay special attention during this process to sciences connect Integration as a business model businesses and international partners. The exchange that arises developing strategic alliances. The Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg is “CENTIM Social Business Award” » 70 between science and business in the scope of a partnership is a already working with its university partners at the level of teaching Dare to risk driving force behind innovation and growth in the region itself and and students and joins forces in cooperative work on projects beyond. The following fi elds of action are fi rst priority: people and in research and teaching. In the future, we want to expand our CENTIM Start-up Week » 71 competencies. successful international university cooperation projects to include Practical Research and Teaching businesses and organisations abroad. Special focus is placed on Against the backdrop of current demographic development, H-BRS expands partnership with the cooperation with internationally active businesses in the Bonn- the university of applied sciences is expanding its outreach to Universities of Cape Coast and Nairobi » 74 Rhein-Sieg region (“regional internationalisation”). Driving force for the economy future students – regional and international. It is confronting the quantitative and qualitative demands of businesses active in the Sustainability: The International Centre for Sustainable Development Universities of applied sciences found region and using the region’s international diversity to build its (IZNE) at the university maintains diverse partnerships with actors alliance to boost visibility » 76 profi le and boost its growth. in the region and abroad. Through its projects, it promotes the Big potential for small companies sustainable development of the university and its partners. Not Knowledge transfer: the university of applied sciences is taking on Further education for immigrant least of all, the H-BRS fulfi ls its responsibility to global sustainability academics » 77 the role of mentor for the Bonn-Rhein-Sieg region. To this end, we through its cooperation with institutions in developing countries. In stride with the university are intensifying knowledge transfer between the university and H-BRS joins the University of Siegen’s regional actors. In concrete terms, we’re planning to establish a Prof. Dr. Jürgen Bode research training group » 78 Science Campus to serve as a vibrant hub, facilitating cooperation Vice President for International Affairs and Diversity in many fi elds of activity and enriching the region’s economy and Prof. Dr. Reiner Clement image. The university cannot master this project alone. Regional Vice President for Regional Development and Innovation businesses and the community must contribute. 66 » collaborate » collaborate 67

Signals from space Work, the purpose of life? In astronomy, the Max-Planck Institute is cooperating with a university of applied sciences for Three universities of applied sciences – one lecture series the fi rst time “Long-term, this Do we live to work? Or do we work to live? Does work builds up a regional Gigantic telescope facilities will be erected soon in Australia Max-Planck Society has favoured working with universi- bring personal fulfi lment? Because they grapple intensely and South Africa. Consisting of several thousand dipolic ties rather than universities of applied sciences. The new with this issue, the current generation of 20 to 30-year-olds expert network in and parabolic antennae, the “Square Kilometre Array” agreement is benefi cial to both sides. “The MPIfR focuses is often termed Generation Y (Why?) by the media. research, teaching (SKA) should pick up signals from space that total some ten on astronomy yet needs competencies in information and training for Petabytes of data per hour. If this data were stored on hard technology”, says Klein. In this respect, the new Division But these are clearly cross-generational questions. That’s future scientists in disk drives of one Terabyte capacity each, 10,000 would be for Digital Signal Processing benefi ts from the expertise of why the public lecture series “Arbeitssinn – Lebenssinn?” radio astronomy needed. the H-BRS in computer science. Long-term, this builds up a (“Meaning of work, meaning of life”), about the role and related regional expert network in research, teaching and training work plays in our lives, generated widespread interest. The astronomers sift through this mass of data for traces of for future scientists in radio astronomy and related technol- The lectures were organised by the Alanus Hochschule, technologies.” what is termed dark matter and clues to the origin of stars ogies. the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, the University of Bonn Professor Bernd Klein and galaxies. A new Division for Digital Signal Processing and the regional newspaper “General-Anzeiger Bonn”. (DSP), being developed by Professor Bernd Klein from the Useful in everyday applications Philosophers, sociologists, economists, medical profes- H-BRS at the Max-Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy sionals and psychologists spoke on topics such as volunteer (MPIfR) in Bonn, works on fulfi lling the prerequisites At MPIfR, Klein headed the Laboratory for Digital Tech- work, self-employment, time off, existential crises, and needed to fi lter through and process such large amounts nology for many years. The new Division now combines reconciling job and family. Each institution provided three of data. all areas of the MPIfR involved in digital technology. Klein speakers. The Alanus Hochschule, for instance, procured says: “In our projects, we’ll develop procedures that ought Theo Wehner, a renowned work and organisational An agreement between the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein- to be useful for everyday applications – that is to say, for psychologist from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Sieg and the Max-Planck Institute makes this one-of-a- any scenario in which large quantities of data must be (ETH Zurich), for a lecture on the psychological aspects of kind cooperation in Germany possible. Up to now, the processed. This in turn is interesting for the university with volunteer work. its close relations to business.” In large-scale research projects like SKA, universities from several countries “The Alanus University initiated the idea of the lecture It also rejuvenates our cooperation agreement with the are involved. This presents numerous opportunities for series because the science region Bonn/Rhein-Sieg and Alanus Hochschule. students at the H-BRS to get involved with radio astronomy the universities of applied sciences benefi t from this type and the technologies it requires. “Prospective engineers of joint activity”, says Julia Wedel, Head of Press and Professor Reiner Clement, Vice President of the Hochschule don’t often know that they are needed in the area of radio Public Relations at the Alanus Hochschule. “At this lecture Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, sees positive results. “The joint lecture astronomy”, says Klein. “As soon as they become involved, series especially, it became clear how series of events are series started as a pilot project and former topics like “Alles they realise that this can be an exciting fi eld for engineers.” enhanced by the differences among the participating geschenk?!” (“Everything given?!”) and “Äußerer Wohl- In the coming months, Klein wants to fi ll the cooperation universities.” Michael Flacke, Head of Communications stand, Innere Armut” (“Outer Wealth, Inner Poverty”) with life – and move forward with the exchange of scien- and Marketing at the H-BRS, was inspired by this event. struck a chord”, he says. “We wanted to repeat that. Our Agreeing on cooperation: Prof. Dr. Michael Kramer tists and students. “This gives us the opportunity to invite a variety of different goal was to bring the universities closer together. This from MPIfR, Prof. Dr. Bernd Klein, university president people to the university and stimulate exciting discussions.” worked, and we plan to continue this successful series.” Prof. Dr. Hartmut Ihne (from left to right) Ü www.mpifr-bonn.mpg.de 68 » collaborate » collaborate 69

Robots for nursing homes Engineers and long-term care researchers seek optimal assistants

People with Alzheimer’s disease or other types of All participants benefit from the cooperation. “Engineers Research (BMBF). The ethics committee of the dementia respond positively to robots that are often develop new technology based on their own ideas German Society of Nursing Science (DGP) has attuned to their individual needs. Engineers often and understandings, requiring users to adjust their behav- approved the study. develop systems that require users to adjust their iour”, says Matthias Füller, project director at the Hoch- behaviour. Computer scientists at the H-BRS are schule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg. “We take the opposite approach More on EmoRobots: approaching this issue from the opposite direction. by putting ourselves in the shoes of the person who will http://emorobot.inf.h-brs.de

In 15 seconds … They are cooperating with long-term care experts actually be using the robot.” to gain a better understanding of patients’ needs. www.h-brs.de/en/inf/news/emorobot- It’s about identifying scenarios for and limits of the use of robot-charitable-mission Zeno looks like a small, bright boy. His hair is tousled. He assistance systems while keeping the sensitivities of the smiles a lot, blinks his eyes and wrinkles his forehead when target group in mind, says Helma Bleses. “It’s important he’s irritated. But Zeno is not a boy, he’s a robot. Eleven that we as nursing scientists apply our expertise.” motors ensure that he can mirror human facial expressions and emotions. In the project, robot systems are customised for individ- uals. What kinds of food do the residents like? What type For the interdisciplinary research project EmoRobot, four of music do they listen to? The robots are programmed different robot systems are “on duty” at a nursing home. according to these requirements or controlled by remote The research team, made up of long-term care special- for more complex tasks. They serve wine, play music or ists, sociologists, and computer scientists, wants to find invite a resident to play a round of memory. out how robot assistants are perceived by people with dementia. An initial study has been carried out at the The researchers record the robots’ activities on video and Katharinenstift nursing home in Wiesbaden, where people assess them. For now, the robots are still controlled via dealing with various stages of dementia live. remote, but they should eventually work autonomously – and not just to reduce the strain on human employees. “In Four universities of applied sciences cooperate long-term care facilities, activities are organised between mealtimes, but long periods of time with no special The research project is headed by professor and nursing programme still exist”, says Füller. “The robots could fill this scientist Helma M. Bleses from the Hochschule Fulda. time meaningfully.” Three robots hand-in-hand: Participating are sociologists from the TU Dortmund and the Double Robotic System, long-term care researchers from the FHS St. Gallen. A team The scientists want to derive recommendations from the humanoid Zeno and headed by computer science professor Erwin Prassler from the studies about how robots need to be built and Jenny (from left to right) the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg contributes technical programmed in order for people to accept them. The competence to the project. project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and 70 » collaborate » collaborate 71

Integration as a business model Dare to risk Three start-up ideas honoured with the “CENTIM Social Business Award” CENTIM Start-up Week kindles the pioneer spirit

In 2015, due to the civil war in Syria, more refugees came Elema und Schild study CSR and NGO Management in When Achim Rehahn saw plastic lamps in Italy several years Snags and successes to Germany than in the years before. Many are well Rheinbach. An assignment within the scope of their MBA ago, he came up with the idea of developing illuminated educated, but they do not speak German and integration is programme was to work out business plans that combine stars and angels as Christmas decorations. This was the “They talked about what went smoothly and what went diffi cult for them. Two groups of students from the Hoch- economic effi ciency with social responsibility. “The plans birth of his company “8 seasons design”, which is now wrong”, says Maikranz. “One entrepreneur recounted how schule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg developed business plans that have cannot fall out of the blue”, says programme coordinator a market leader in this area, with a product palette that a minor product that was just meant to fi ll the stand at the solid economic bases but are also intended to facilitate Max Bolz. “They must deal with relevant topics and work in includes fl owers, moons and bunnies. Achim Rehahn is a trade fair surprisingly developed into a top seller.” After integration. For this work, the Centre for Entrepreneurship, practice.” graduate of the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg and reported their talks, the founders were happy to answer individual Innovation and SMEs (CENTIM) at the university presented on the snags and successes of his company at Start-up questions from students and colleagues – a good opportu- Amina Schild and David Elema with the highly acclaimed The “CENTIM Social Business Award” was also presented Week in Sankt Augustin. nity to hear fresh ideas and make new contacts. “Social Business Award”. to two other projects. “Food Stories” also takes up the topic of refugees. The business model plans a community Start-up Week is a nationwide event focusing on the topic The event was open to anyone interested in business The team suggested establishing an international hotel meeting place, in which people introduce dishes from their of entrepreneurial initiative. The Centre for Entrepreneur- start-ups and will be held annually in the future. “We’re – the “ADA Kune Hotel”. “Kune” means “together” home countries and offer cooking classes. In the project ship, Innovation and SMEs (CENTIM) at the H-BRS came also planning an idea market where young entrepreneurs in Esperanto, refl ecting the spirit of the hotel project. “ShinE”, women in the Indian state of Bihar craft lamps up with the idea of organising four days of activities in the can present their business and product ideas”, reports Refugees from around the world with experience in the from old newspapers and other wastepaper, which are Bonn/Rhein-Sieg region for this event week. “Why always Maikranz. The audience will vote on the best idea, and the hotel and gastronomy industry could fi nd work there, and then sold worldwide. The glue and paints are also to be just Berlin?” is the motto. “We’ve realised that the region is founder will be awarded a prize. Above all, this will give the guests would benefi t from the diverse linguistic and produced in India – from raw materials farmed organically. lacking entrepreneurs”, says Frank C. Maikranz, founding entrepreneurs the opportunity to reach a wide public and cultural knowledge of the employees. The students have director of CENTIM, an academic institution that advises get honest feedback. already chalked up their fi rst success: the District Mayor of students, professionals and companies on everything to do Bonn-Bad Godesberg, Simone Stein-Lücke, showed great with entrepreneurship, innovation and business start-ups. More on CENTIM: The prize-winning teams with interest in the project. “That may be because the employment rate in our region Ü www.centim.org their ideas: ADA Kune Hotel, is high, but that doesn’t mean we should just sit back and Food Stories and ShinE relax.”

For four days in November 2015, various aspects of estab- lishing a business were debated, from funding start-ups, to pension schemes and the question as to what the govern- ment could do to kindle the pioneer spirit. Reports on real-world experience were especially in demand. In addi- Former Minister President tion to Achim Rehahn, entrepreneurs Robert Kronekker of NRW, Jürgen Rüttgers, (fl apjack producer Hafervoll), Max Weber (performance was among the guest comparison website GradeView), and Louis Bahlmann and speakers at the CENTIM Burak Dönmezer (interdental brush manufacturer Luoro), Start-up Week provided a closer look into their start-up year. “Doubt is the motor for development”, says Lukas Gemein. The mechanical engineer studying for his Master’s degree must know that. He has been a member of the H-BRS racing team since his studies began and developed new tires for the university’s racing car in the scope of his Bachelor’s thesis. Since 2015, they have been bringing the Bolide successfully over the finish line. “We doubted whether the old tires were optimal”, says the student. They were three inches larger than the new models and required more energy. The solution: lower mass through smaller tires. Was the concept doubted? “In mechanics, it’s never possible to say for certain whether a development will be successful”, says Lukas Gemein. “But the step paid off – results have improved significantly.”

Excellent career opportunities await him after completing his Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering at the end of 2016, of that Lukas Gemein has no doubt. 74 » collaborate » collaborate 75

Practical Research and Teaching

H-BRS expands partnership with the Universities of Cape Coast and Nairobi 00101001010001 0010100101000100101001010001 001010100100 001010100100001010100100 10010101000 A joint platform for business and research con- Idea competition for entrepreneurs 1001010100010010101000 0010101000 nects the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg with its 00101010000010101000 010010110 010010110010010110 partner universities in Ghana and Kenya. Focus- Moreover, an idea competition for entrepreneurs will be 010101000 010101000010101000 es are joint practical research and teaching to held. Teams from the universities in Ghana and Kenya 010010101 010010101010010101 promote business start-ups and improve career will present their business plans, and the winner will be 100101000 100101000100101000 010010111 readiness, and advising German SMEs on African awarded a prize by the German Investment and Devel- 010010111010010111 In 15 seconds … 010010100010001010010 markets. opment Corporation (DEG) and the German Society for 010010100010001010010010010100010001010010 International Cooperation (GIZ). The competition is open to The project “German-African University Partnership Plat- students, alumni and staff of the universities. Intercultural speed dating Corporate responsibility in SMEs Showcase of IT security form for the Development of Entrepreneurs and SMEs” is In speed dating, participants sit across Students at the Institute for Social Mobile devices, cloud computing, big funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation The German economy will benefit from the partnership, from one another, converse for a few Innovations (ISI) at the Hochschule data, biometrics – at the conference and Development (BMZ). “Universities of applied research too. “We’d like to show German SMEs how attractive minutes, and then move on to the next Bonn-Rhein-Sieg have examined how “D-ACH-Security”, 100 IT experts from have not played a significant role in African countries up to African markets are”, says Bode. “Here in Germany, Africa candidate. At the end, they decide widespread Corporate Social Respon- industry, management and research now”, says Professor Jürgen Bode, Vice President for Inter- is imagined as a problem continent. Businesses from whom they would like to stay in contact sibility (CSR) is in SMEs. They inspected debated the ever more complex require­ national Affairs and Diversity. “For this reason, we’d like to France, England, the USA and China have long been active with. This principle was introduced by the websites of 958 companies – to ments for data security and privacy create structures with our partners that will better prepare in many countries there. German companies, especially Claudia Ruiz Vega from the university’s gauge their involvement in ecology, protection. The conference is consid- graduates for the job market. At the same time, practical SMEs, are gradually falling behind.” For this reason, the Language Centre in several different sports or other socially beneficial activi- ered a showcase of IT security in the research will benefit regional development.” To achieve partner universities in Ghana and Kenya want to act as courses to promote the development of ties. “We assume that companies pub- German-speaking world. It is organised this, research and teaching “tandems” are planned. Univer- consultants in the future, advising SMEs in market research tandem language learning partnerships. licise the integration of CSR into their annually by the University of Klagfurt at sity lecturers from all three institutions can cooperate on and on questions about which product ideas have a chance Students from the Master programme in management strategies”, says Professor changing venues. In September 2015, it projects or offer joint courses. In this process, African and for success in the region. At the same time, students Technology and Innovation Communica- Christoph Zacharias from ISI, explaining was held for the first time at the Hoch- German students get to know one another and gain inter- benefit from internships or practical thesis work in Ghana tions met at the start of their course for this approach. The analysis shows that schule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg. Professor Ker- cultural experience. and Kenya. a round of speed dating for intercultural only about 31 per cent of the businesses stin Lemke-Rust and Professor Markus practice – and in the resulting language are concerned with CSR-related topics. Ullmann coordinated the event, at which Long-term, the university partnerships should spawn a tandems received insight into cultures There’s a need to raise awareness, says new technologies and the improvement German-Ghanaian-Kenyan network with representatives that were previously unfamiliar to them. Zacharias. The ISI advises businesses on of training and further education were from research and business. A start is the annual confer- Ruiz Vega also sets up language tan- how to implement CSR strategies. topics. ence, which alternately takes place in Ghana, Kenya and dems for students regardless of depart- ÜÜwww.h-brs.de/en/isi ÜÜwww.syssec.at/dachsecurity2015 Germany. In 2015, projector partners from universities and ment. businesses met in Ghana. In November 2016, 400 partici- ÜÜwww.h-brs.de/spz/sprachtandem pants are expected in Sankt Augustin. ÜÜwww.h-brs.de/en/spz/tandem- language-learning 76 » collaborate » collaborate 77

Driving force for the economy Big potential for small companies Universities of applied sciences found alliance to boost visibility Universities prepare immigrant academics for the German job market

Politics has not yet fully acknowledged it: with They come from Ukraine, Belarus, Syria, Afghanistan or The programme, which ends in November 2015, is funded their practical focus, regional networking and Colombia – the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg is preparing by the Otto Benecke Foundation, the Federal Ministry of knowledge transfer, universities of applied sciences 18 immigrant academics for the German job market. The Labour and Social Affairs, and the EU European Social are the backbone of the German economy. These H-BRS Institute for International Studies is carrying out an Fund. universities now want to raise more awareness in eleven-month advanced training programme with the goal the public consciousness for their achievements – of countering the shortage of skilled personnel in Germany.

In 15 seconds … an alliance for SMEs. “The selected participants have already earned a business Around 1 million students – that is what the universities the German economy”, says Michael Flacke, Head of degree in their home countries and gained professional of applied sciences in Germany proudly have to show. Communications and Marketing at the H-BRS. “Students experience”, says Professor Klaus Deimel, who is directing The tendency is increasing, and that for good reason: the have been deciding in favour of this type of education for the project along with his colleague Andreas Wiesehahn. The founding members: students know that they are getting a practical education. years, but the political system is still not geared toward “But they’re lacking certain skills that are required by “Our students are less likely to break off their studies, are promoting exemplary universities. The Alliance now wants German SMEs.” • Hochschule Niederrhein better received in the job market, and generally get higher to show politicians and stakeholders what our universities • Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg starting salaries”, says Hans-Hennig from Grünberg, Presi- of applied sciences already achieve and contribute.” To this This training measure will build on the prior knowledge of • Hochschule Bremerhaven dent of the Hochschule Niederrhein. end in late 2015, the Alliance invited politicians to a parlia- the academics, expanding their qualifications in areas such • Hochschule Koblenz mentary breakfast, to talk with them about the leading role as business basics, fiscal control mechanisms and statutory • Hochschule Magde- Grünberg is chair of the “Hochschulallianz für den Mittel- that universities of applied sciences play for SMEs and thus regulations in Germany. Alongside discipline-specific busi- burg-Stendal stand (HAfM)” (“University Alliance for SMEs”), a nation- for Germany’s entire economy. ness German, they learn how to make a good impression • Technische Hochschule Mit- wide association of currently nine universities of applied at companies and apply for jobs. telhessen sciences, which was established in 2015. These universities Sitting on the Alliance’s advisory board are also represent- • Technische Hochschule are united under the tenet of providing young people with atives from SMEs, such as the Volksbank Mittelhessen, the The training is heavily focused on practice. The university Nürnberg academic studies closely attuned to the needs of the job Carl Knauber Holding and advacon. “It’s crucial that entre- organises visits to companies, and toward the end of the market and boosting knowledge transfer in the regional preneurs take part”, says Flacke. “They keep the Alliance programme, a three-month internship phase is scheduled. economy. The Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg, with Presi- updated on current topics affecting SMEs – what’s impor- The participants apply at a company of their choice – the In January 2016, the following dent Ihne on the board, is one of the HAfM’s founding tant in research and education, for instance. The Alliance university supports them in this. “Above all, we want to members joined: members. can then develop accordingly.” promote initiative so that after the training, the students • Technische Hochschule can approach potential employers self-confidently”, says Brandenburg Driving force for the economy Plans include networking the transfer offices of the univer- Deimel. The Management Sciences professor is convinced • Hochschule für Technik und sities more closely and creating cooperation platforms for that companies will benefit from the academics. “These Wirtschaft des Saarlandes “Politics, in particular, has not yet fully acknowledged that joint funding applications. The alliance wants to incorpo- people are highly motivated and, in addition to their (htw saar) universities of applied sciences are a driving force behind rate more universities of applied sciences next year. competency in the field, they have intercultural knowledge, ÜÜwww.hochschulallianz.de which is valuable to any company involved in exports”, supplements Professor Andreas Wiesehahn. 78 » collaborate » collaborate 79

In stride with the university H-BRS joins the University of Siegen’s research training group

Since summer 2015, the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg is Scientists from the H-BRS have now joined the subprojects part of the research training group “Imaging New Modal- image data processing, sensor development, and multi- ities” of the University of Siegen. The HBR-S is the fi rst modal procedures for civil security of the Siegen research university of applied sciences to be accepted for a new training group. Research projects in these fi elds are steered line of funding from the German Research Foundation by Professor Herpers and his colleague Professor Peter (DFG). “The H-BRS and the University of Siegen have been Kaul from the Department of Natural Sciences. Especially working closely together for several years on doctoral notable: the two professors are placed on equal terms with sponsorship”, says computer science professor Rainer their colleagues from the University of Siegen and even act Herpers from the Institute of Visual Computing. “When in as advisors to doctoral candidates. “The DFG’s acceptance 2014, the opportunity fi rst arose of applying for collabora- of our application is an important step along the path tion with an existing research training group as a university toward equal participation in research for the universities of applied sciences, we tackled the issue jointly with the of applied sciences”, says Margit Geißler, Vice President for University of Siegen”. Research and Young Academics at the H-BRS.

The research training group is based in the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at the Univer- sity of Siegen and in the NRW Centre for Sensor Systems (ZESS) and is funded by the DFG with a total of one million euros per year. The project, which has been running since 2009, was extended in 2014 for another four and a half years; that is the maximum funding period for a project. “The DFG’s acceptance Professor Herpers is satisfi ed: “Three doctoral students are of our application is an currently working on projects connected with the research important step along training group. Two of the positions are funded by the the path toward equal DFG, one by the H-BRS.” participation in research for the universities of applied sciences.” Margit Geißler, Vice President for The Sieg connects: the University of Siegen Research and Young Academics and the Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg lie at opposite ends of the river. 80 report

Facts and fi gures » 82

A part of studies and a Structure of the university » 84 part of the Annual Report: charts, graphs and lists New appointments » 85

University council » 85

University employee structure » 85

Partner universities around the world » 86

International cooperation » 88

Prizes and awards » 92 82 » report » report 83

Facts and fi gures Students Winter Semester 2015/16 Number of students First-semester students Graduates Students by department and gender Winter semester 2015/16 Academic year 2014/15 Academic year 2014/15

7,951 8,000 2,400 1,200 2,222 1,087 Management Computer Electrical Natural Social Security 2,200 7,000 Sciences Science Engineering, Sciences Studies 37% female 2,000 1,000 6,000 36% 1,800 Mechanical 35% 35% 2,920 1,600 800 Engineering and 5,000 34% 5,031 1,400 Technical Journalism 4,000 1,200 600 female 1,000 female female 3,000 52 % 800 400 14 % 23 % female female 58 % 2,000 66% 65% 65% 64% 63% male 600 64 % 400 200 1,000 200 0 0 0 2012 2013 2014 2015 2011 2012 2013 2014 2011 2012 2013 2014 2013 2014 2015 2016 2012 2013 2014 2015 2012 2013 2014 2015 2,611 2,052 1,832 1,123 333

Degree courses at the H-BRS Bachelor programmes Master programmes New in 2015 male male male male 36 % male 86 % 77 % 42 % • Applied Biology • Analysis and Design of Social Protection PhD Programme at the Graduate Institute 48 % • Business Administration Systems • Business Management • Analytic Chemistry and Quality Assurance • Business Information Systems • Autonomous Systems Percentage of international students by department • Business Psychology • Biomedical Sciences • Chemistry with Materials Science • Controlling und Management • Computer Science • Electrotechnical Systems Development • Electrical Engineering • Computer Science • Electrical Engineering (cooperative) • Innovation and Information Management • Forensic Sciences • International Media Studies 16.4 % 17.0% 11.2 % 24.6 % 5.7 % • Mechanical Engineering • Mechanatronics • Mechanical Engineering (cooperative) • Corporate Social Responsibility & • Social Security Management Non-Governmental Organisation (CSR & NGO) • Technical Journalism/PR Management • Technology and Innovation Communications • Business Psychology 84 » report » report 85

New appointments The University Council Structure of the University

01/06/2015 Prof. Dr. Ingo Groß The current members of the University Council were appointed in August 2007 University Council The President's Office 8 members Professor of Engineering, especially Automation Technology, Chief and confirmed for a further term in 2012: four external members and four Vice President Vice President Vice President Information in the Department of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical International Affairs and Teaching, Learning and Research and Young members of the university. The University Council is responsible for all strategic Officer Senate Diversity Further Education Academics President Engineering and Technical Journalism 34 members Executive Unit matters relating to the university. It advises the President’s Office and monitors the Vice President Communications 01/10/2015 Prof. Dr. Britta Krahn Regional Development way business is conducted. Furthermore, it appoints the President of the Hoch- Chancellor and Marketing Professor for Business Psychology, especially Finance, The Chancellor's Executive Units and Innovation schule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg – University of Applied Sciences and acts as a supervisory Marketing and Social Psychology, in the Department of body. The eight voting members of the University Council are: Management Sciences 01/01/2015 Prof. Dr. Jörn Oliver Sass Departments and Institutes Commissions and Commissioners Administration and Central Service Facilities Professor for Biology, especially Bioanalytics and • Dr. Ines Knauber-Daubenbüchel • Dr. Andrea Niehaus Biochemistry, in the Department of Natural Sciences Chair, entrepreneur, Director of the Deutsches Museum Departments Institutes Commissions Commissioners Administration Central Service Facilities Knauber company Bonn New honorary professors in 2015 for the Department of Social Security • Prof. Dr. Rupert Gerzer • Prof. Dr. Tobias Amely Natural Institute for Financial Planning Alumni Campus and University and District Library Sciences Detection Technologies and Budgeting Finance Services Bonn-Rhein-Sieg Studies Chair till 10/12/ 2015, Director of Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg

Digital University • Gerd Bigge the Institute of Aerospace Medicine • Prof. Dr. Elvira Jankowski Electrical Engineering, Institute for International Office and Mechanical Engineering and Media Research Language Centre • Dr. Franziska Gassmann at the German Aerospace Centre Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg Research Student Services Technical Journalism and Development Diversity • Dr. Krzysztof Hagemejer • Prof. Dr. Jakob Rhyner • Prof. Dr. Karl W. Neunast

Institute for Computer Quality Management • Bodo Hombach Vice Rector in Europe of the United Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg Technology, Resource and Equal Opportunities Human Resource Services Centre for Campus-IT Science Energy-Efficient Engineering • Dr. Andreas Koch Nations University (UNU) and Direc- • Prof. Dr. Gerd Knupp School Liaison Services • Dr. Andreas Kranig tor of the Institute for Environment Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg Social Centre for Entrepreneurship, Strategic Planning and Centre for Science and Technology International Affairs Security Studies Innovation and SMEs Controlling Services Transfer (ZWT) • Dr. Axel Weber and Human Security (UNU-EHS)

Management Sciences Graduate Institute Teaching and Learning Statutory Commissioners

Safety at Work and University employee structure Safety and Security Partnership and Environmental Protection Research Institute Cooperation

Appointments Professors Technical and administrative staff Institute for Quality Improvement (including trainees) Social Innovations 152 199 Data Protection Institute of Transfer Visual Computing Equal Opportunites

International Centre for Staff Council Sustainable Development Health and Disabilites 145 Research associates 261 (including teaching staff Lecturers 405 with special tasks) Student Body Student Parlament, General Students' Committee, Departmental Student Councils and their Executive Committees 86 » report » report 87

Partner universities around the world

Ü https://www.h-brs.de/fi les/fhbrs/partnerhochschulen_en.pdf Partner universities with double In Shanghai Ranking: degrees: Top 200: • Victoria University, Melbourne, Australia • University of California, Riverside, USA • University of Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia Top 300: • Queensland University of Technology • University of Dundee, Scotland Business School, Australia • University of Aberdeen, Scotland • Université Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne, • Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada France • Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain • Dublin Business School, Ireland • Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain • Dalhousie University, • University of Palermo, Italy Halifax, Canada • Università degli Studi dell’Insubria, Varese, Top 500 • Radboud Universität, Italy • Queensland University of Technology, Nimwegen, Netherlands • York University, Toronto, Canada Brisbane, Australia • Tomsk Polytechnic University, Russia • Hogeschool van Arnhem, Nimwegen, • University of Palermo, Italy • Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Netherlands • Kyungpook National University, Daegu, Spain • Zürcher Hochschule für Angewandte Korea • University of California, Riverside, USA Wissenschaften, Winterthur, Switzerland • Universidad de Valencia, Spain • University of Aberdeen, Scotland • Pfeiffer University, Charlotte, USA • Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, Spain • University of Dundee, Scotland • Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, • Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Scotland Barcelona, Spain Top 500: • University of Aberdeen, Scotland • Universität Istanbul, Turkey • Murdoch University, Perth, Australia • University of Dundee, Scotland • Brunel University London, England • Universität Kreta, Greece • Hunan University, Changsha, China • University of Palermo, Italy Im Times Higher Education World • York University, Toronto, Canada Partner universities University Ranking: • Norwegian University of Science and Top 300: Technology, Trondheim, Norway Partner universities with double degrees • Universitat de València, Spain • Queensland University of Technology, High ranking Brisbane, Australia • Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, • Institut Universitaire de Technologie, Paris, Spain High ranking with double degree France • Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain (TOP 500 Shanghai Ranking or TOP 500 Times Higher Education World University Ranking) • Université de Bordeaux, France • Keele University, England • National University of Ireland, Galway, • Brunel University London, England Ireland 88 » report » report 89

Number of international partnerships by department

Social Security Studies

Country University Departments 3 York University in Toronto Computer Science Natural Sciences Management Sciences Canada Dalhousie University in Halifax Computer Science University of New Brunswick in New Brunswick Computer Science 20 24 Computer Science Croatia University of Dubrovnik Management Sciences Czech Re- Natural Sciences Tomáš-Baťa-Universität in Zlín, Faculty of Technology public PhD-Programme: Alle Fachbereiche Ethiopia Agro Technical and Technology College in Harar Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism 25 Helsinki Metropolia University of Applied Sciences 20 Finland Computer Science in Espoo, Institute of Technology Electrical Engineering, Computer Science Mechanical Engineering Université de Poitiers, Institut d’Administration des Entreprises Management Sciences and Technical Journalism Institut Universitaire de Technologie Paris Descartes Management Sciences France Université Paris-Est Créteil Val de Marne Natural Sciences Université de Bordeaux Natural Sciences École d‘Ingénieurs informatique de Limoges Computer Science Ghana University of Cape Coast Management Sciences Greece University of Crete Computer Science Computer Science Indo-German Center for Higher Education India Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Country University Departments Mudra Institute of Communication Ahmedabad, Gujarat Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Universidad Nacional de San Luis Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Argentinia Indonesia Universitas Atma Jaya Yogyakarta in Yogyakarta Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Universidad Tecnológica Nacional in Buenos Aires Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Institute of Technology Tralee Management Sciences Natural Sciences Murdoch University in Perth Management Sciences Ireland National University of Ireland in Galway Management Sciences Natural Sciences Dublin Business School in Dublin Management Sciences Management Sciences Università di Palermo, Dipartimento di Biologia Natural Sciences Victoria University in Melbourne Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Italy Cellulare e dello Sviluppo Australia Computer Science Università degli Studi dell’Insubria in Varese Natural Sciences Social Security Studies Natural Sciences University of Sunshine Coast, Queensland Management Sciences Kagawa University in Takamatsu Computer Science Japan Griffith School of Engineering Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Queensland University of Technology, Business School Management Sciences Nagaoka University of Technology Computer Science Bulgaria Wirtschaftsuniversität Varna Management Sciences Jordan Deutsch-Jordanische Hochschule/German-Jordanian University Management Sciences 90 » report » report 91

Country University Departments Country University Departments Natural Sciences Universitat de València Natural Sciences Computer Science Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Kenya University of Nairobi Management Sciences Universitat Politècnica de València Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Computer Science Spain Universitat Politécnica de Catalunya, Barcelona, Social Security Studies Computer Science Montenegro University of Montenegro, Podgorica Computer Science School of Informatics Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona Management Sciences Namibia Polytechnic of Namibia in Windhoek Social Security Studies Universidad Autónoma de Madrid Computer Science Hogeschool van Arnhem in Nijmwegen Natural Sciences Zürcher Hochschule für Angewandte Hogeschool van Amsterdam Computer Science Switzerland Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Netherlands Wissenschaften in Winterthur Van Hall Larenstein, University of Applied Sciences in Leeuwarden Natural Sciences Istanbul University Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Radboud University Nijmegen Natural Sciences Turkey Yeditepe University in Istanbul Natural Sciences Computer Science Yalova University Management Sciences Norway Høgskolen I Sør-Trøndelag in Trondheim Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Ukraine Chernihiv State Technological University in Chernihiv Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Natural Sciences Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen Natural Sciences Computer Science People’s Nantong University University of Aberdeen, Schottland Natural Sciences Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Republic of University of Dundee, Schottland Natural Sciences China Hunan University in Changsha Management Sciences Management Sciences Keele University in Staffordshire Jagiellonen-Universität in Kraków Natural Sciences United King- Natural Sciences Poland Glynd r University in Wrexham/Wales Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Politechnika Warszawska Computer Science dom ŵ Republic of Brunel University London PhD Programme: all Departments Kyungpook National University, Daegu Management Sciences Korea University of Westminster London Management Sciences Staatsuniversität für Informationstechnologien, Regent’s University London Management Sciences Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Mechanik und Optik in Sankt Petersburg Abertay University in Dundee, Schottland Natural Sciences Moscow State Institute of Radioengineering, Computer Science Coastal Carolina University in Conway Management Sciences Electronics and Automation (Technical University) Russian Pfeiffer University in Charlotte, North Carolina Management Sciences Federation Moscow Institute of Electronic Technology (Technical University) in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism USA California State University in Sacramento Computer Science Zelenograd, National Research University of Electronic Technology University of California, Riverside Management Sciences Ufa State Aviation Technical University Computer Science Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Tomsk Polytechnic University in Tomsk Computer Science Socialist Republic of Vietnamesisch-Deutsche Hochschule in Ho-Chi-Minh-Stadt Computer Science Vietnam 92 » report » report 93

Prizes and awards

AFCEA Bonn e.V. Student Award (User forum for Equal Opportunity Officer’s Award for the best Master’s thesis InformatiCup of the GI (German Informatics Society) IEEE William E. Sayle Award for Achievement in Telecommunications, Computers, Electronics and Automation and Melanie Ludwig, Natural Sciences Helge Spieker, Computer Science, with Neele Halbur, Edu- Education e-user forum for Telecommunications, Computers, Electronics and cational Sciences (Bielefeld University) Prof. Dr. Marco Winzker, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical VDMI - Bestes Maschinenhaus Automation) Engineering and Technical Journalism Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism Best Paper Award from the IEEE VR (Institute of 1st place: Matias Alejandro Valdenegro Toro, Computer Science Electrical and Electronics Engineers) 2nd place: Sergej Alexandrov and Tobias Haubrich, Computer Science Advancement Award from H-BRS Donors David Scherfgen, Computer Science DAAD Prize (German Academic Exchange Service) • Patrick Hessler, Management Sciences Magali Paradis-Dufour, Management Sciences • Astrid Fuchs, Management Sciences, Computer Science • Maurice Velte, Computer Science DRIVE-E Student Award • Matias Valdenegro, Computer Science Adam Gaier, Computer Science • Lutz Langel, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Techni- cal Journalism University Innovation Prize 2015 • Jorge Xavier Tapia Daza, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Professor Dr. Gerd Knupp, Natural Sciences and Technical Journalism Next Step into the Future of Entrepreneurship Education • Michael Wiehlpütz, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Regina Brautlacht, Language Centre Technical Journalism • Léonie Herder-Issig, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and VDI Sponsorship Award 2015 (The Association of German Technical Journalism Engineers) • Tim Hausen, Natural Sciences David Scherfgen, Computer Science • Christiane Hayes, Natural Sciences • Gerrit Winter, Natural Sciences Best Student Paper Award of the International Conference on • Renata Divkovic, Social Security Studies Information and Communication Technologies for Ageing Well and e-Health RoboCup World Cup, Bronze Ashok Meenakshi Sundaram, Computer Science, Melanie Ludwig, Prof. Dr. Gerhard K. Kraetzschmar, M.Sc. Frederik Hegger, Ashok Meenak- Computer Science and their advisors Matthias Füller, Prof. Dr. Alexander shi Sundaram, Oscar Lima Carrion, Arka Mallick, Santosh Thoduka, Pad- Asteroth and Prof. Dr. Erwin Prassler maja, Vivek Kulkarni, Jose Manuel Sanchez Loza, Shehzad Ahmed, Deebul Sivarajan Nair, Alexander Moriarty Award for Sustainability and Responsibility RoboCup German Open, Silver Basma Hansen, Natural Sciences Oscar Lima, Shehzad Ahmed, Santosh Thoduka, Alexander Moriarty, Master Prize of the Association for Biochemistry and Molecular Ashok Sundaram, Arka Mallick, Padmaja Kulkarni, Deebul Nair (all Com- Biology (GBM) puter Science), Advisors: Frederik Hegger and Prof. Dr. Gerhard Timo Heß, Natural Sciences Kraetzschmar 94 » report

Photo Credits

Bosse und Meinhard: Title, 4(3), 5(3), 7, 8, 9, 10 ,11, 18/19, private (Andreas Hense): 42 27, 31, 39, 42, 43, 44, 45, 46, 47, 56/57, 64/65, 72/73, 79 Peter Booth/istockphoto: 43 Wolfgang Koch (H-BRS): 4. 12/13, 22 Fotoatelier Herff: 43 Miriam Lüdtke-Hanjery (H-BRS): 4, 28, 24/25 private (Peter Kaul): 43 Jörg Heupel: 4 DeluXe-PiX/istockphoto: 48 Yorck C. Weber (H-BRS): 5, 6, 7, 16, 50/51 YariK/photocase.de: 49 Eric Lichtenscheidt: 5, 14, 25, 80/81, 93 Volker Lannert: 51 C. Adolph: 6, 6/7, 7 MIWF: 52 private: 7 Salihou Boukari: 53(2) Eva Tritschler (H-BRS): 7, 13, 17, 42, 43, 54, 62, 70(3) Florian Berscheid: 55 Kira Wazinski (H-BRS): 7 HBRS International Office: 59 Rainer Keuenhof: 15 private (Elina Zailer): 60 Heusinger von Waldegg (H-BRS): 15 busypix/istockphoto: 60/61 f&m Satz & Druckerei: 20 Peter Lorber: 63 Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg: 21, 34, 65(2) NASA: 66 Dirk Laessig: 21 MPI/Kölsch: 66 Christian Köhn (H-BRS): 23 Lucas1989 / photocase.de: 67 Innovatec: 29 Matthias Füller (H-BRS): 69 artishokcs/istockphoto: 32 CENTIM (71) Dorothee Schipper (H-BRS): 33 runeer/istockphoto: 77 Sven Flessing (H-BRS): 34, 42 wikimedia/hajorenner: 78 Pogonici/istockphoto: 35 Iris Schuhmann (H-BRS): 37 esolla/istockphoto: 38 alphaspirit/istockphoto: 40/41 private (Rosemarie Stibbe): 42 Campus Sankt Augustin Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg Grantham-Allee 20 Highlights 2015 53757 Sankt Augustin Campus Rheinbach Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg von-Liebig-Straße 20 Unique: MPI cooperates with H-BRS 53359 Rheinbach A top scientist for the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy and exciting research projects for H-BRS – both institutions benefi t from this partnership which is unique in all of Germany (p. 66) Campus Hennef Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg Pioneer Spirit Zum Steimelsberg 7 53773 Hennef With the “Social Business Award” and the fi rst Startup Week in Bonn, the Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and SMEs (CENTIM) supports entrepreneurship in the region (p. 70) View to the Future Environmental awareness and sustainable technologies remain in focus: Opening of the university‘s own electric fi lling station (p. 63) and establish- ment of the “Bio Innovation Park Rheinland” for green technologies for the agricultural and food industries with many regional players www.facebook.com/hsbrs www.bio-innovation-park.de 100,000 Euros for Teaching With its practice-oriented teaching concept, the Department of Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Technical Journalism wins the competition “Best Machine House 2015” from the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) (p. 21)

Cutting-Edge Research https://twitter.com/h_bonnrheinsieg The developers of “micrOzone”, a micro disinfection system for water distribution systems, win the University Innovation Prize 2015 (p. 29) Recognising Potential The H-BRS is co-founder of the “University Alliance for SMEs”. Goal: Drawing more political attention to the economic and social potential of universities of applied sciences (p. 76)

2.400 2.200 Record High 2.000 2.222 1.800 1.600 In Winter Semester 2015/16, 1,700 fi rst-year students are starting, more 1.400 1.200 1.000 than ever before. At nearly 8,000, the total number of students also sets a 800 600 new record (p. 74) 400 200 0 2011 2012 2013 2014 2012 2013 2014 2015