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Herausgeber Translation Prof. Dr. Volker Trommsdorff (Technische Universität Berlin)

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im Auftrag von GATE-Germany, German Rectors‘ Conference Rectors‘ German

Konsortium für internationales Hochschulmarketing Wahlers, Marijke German Academic Exchange Service Exchange Academic German Lemmens, Nina Dr.

German Rectors‘ Conference Rectors‘ German Koch, Ulrike German Academic Exchange Service Exchange Academic German

Autoren Jansen, Irene Dr. German Academic Exchange Service Exchange Academic German

Frank Brunner (Berlin) Hase-Bergen, Stefan

Martina Hinz (Berlin) Coordination Carsten Jasner (Berlin)

Annekatrin Looss (Berlin) wbv Dammann, Katja

Dr. Wolfgang Merten (Berlin) department Editorial Dr. Monika Offenberger (München)

Prof. Dr. Volker Trommsdorff (Berlin) (wbv) KG Co. und GmbH Verlag Bertelsmann W.

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Gesamtherstellung (Berlin) Walter Andrea

W. Bertelsmann Verlag GmbH und Co. KG (wbv) (Berlin) Trommsdorff Volker Dr. Prof. Dr. Monika Offenberger (Munich) (Munich) Offenberger Monika Dr.

Redaktion (Berlin) Merten Wolfgang Dr.

Katja Dammann, wbv (Berlin) Looss Annekatrin Carsten Jasner (Berlin) (Berlin) Jasner Carsten

Koordination (Berlin) Hinz Martina

Stefan Hase-Bergen, DAAD (Berlin) Brunner Frank

Dr. Irene Jansen, DAAD Authors Ulrike Koch, HRK Dr. Nina Lemmens, DAAD

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Marion Schnepf, lok. design division Berlin) Universität (Technische Merten Wolfgang Dr. Prof. Dr. Volker Trommsdorff (Technische Universität Berlin) Universität (Technische Trommsdorff Volker Dr. Prof.

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Dear reader,

Distinguished by its centuries-long tradition of scientific and scholarly achievement, Germany remains one of the most important centres of research and scholarship in the world today. This publication seeks to offer an overview of some of the research highlights and scientific achievements emerging from German univer- sities, schools of applied sciences, and aca- demies of art and music that have contributed to this success story.

Research achievements Creative genius flourishes under favourable at German universities conditions. By providing an open and stimula- ting environment and maintaining state-of-the- art facilities, German universities help support their scholars and scientists to develop their creative powers. These settings provide fertile ground for cultivating internationally success- ful research careers as well as highly regarded research work. We would like to highlight several of the Exchange Service (DAAD) and the German leading figures and significant achievements Rectors’ Conference (HRK). Trommsdorff and that have emerged across various fields at Merten selected a representative collection of German universities over the past fifty years exemplary work from across all disciplines – each has had an important impact on all of and from a range of higher education insti- our lives or is certain to influence us in the tutions, with an emphasis on more recent future. These achievements have significantly achievements. They then collaborated with a enriched the world’s store of knowledge, and team of authors to write up descriptions of their effects will be felt for a long time to the chosen research work. come. We hope you enjoy this fascinating material! The following ground-breaking discoveries, Should you be interested in learning more inventions, and findings were selected by about any of the work described here, you Professor Volker Trommsdorff and Dr. Wolf- can find information for further reading at gang Merten of the ScienceMarketing the end of this publication, or you may visit department at Technischen Universität the links provided after each individual Berlin, on behalf of the German Academic article.

Prof. Dr. Margret Wintermantel Prof. Dr. Horst Hippler President of the German Academic Exchange Service President of the German Rectors‘ Conference Inventions Inventors solve problems by finding tech- helped make the production of low-cost nical solutions. As early as half a millen- pharmaceuticals possible, and the engineer nium before the advent of the internet era, Ernst Ruska, whom we can thank for the Johannes Gutenberg caused a paradigm development of electron microscopes that inventions shift in the media world. With the construc- allow us to see atoms. And without the physi- tion of the world’s first printing press in cist Peter Grünberg, super-fast computers Germany, books became a mass-market would remain in the realm of science fiction. product. The car, tram, light bulb, television, computer, and the MP-3 audio file format Excellent support for young scientists will are also products of German ingenuity. guarantee that “Made in Germany” con- tinues to be the hallmark for outstanding The articles in the following “Inventions” inventions. At present, a completely novel section are not limited to a narrowly defined type of aircraft is being developed in Ham- subset of the engineering sciences, such as burg. In Dresden, researchers are seeking to those examples we have provided from the identify tumour cells more rapidly through fields of materials research, manufacturing the use of nanotechnology. Meanwhile, a technology, and computer electronics. In team in Stuttgart headed by Nobel Prize touching on so many areas in the following winner Klaus von Klitzing is planning the pages, it’s no accident that many Nobel Prize next revolution: the end of the digital age, winners are showcased. There’s the chemist brought about by quantum technology. Georg Wittig, for example, whose research A master of molecules A sandwich structure for chemists

Impulsive yet pensive, a man of the world ischer had planned to study art history, who loved his own country, and as ardently Fbut the Second World War derailed his devoted to the fine arts as to the natural plans. It was then, rather by chance, that he sciences, Ernst Otto Fischer was a portrait in discovered his love of inorganic chemistry. inventions contrasts. Even as a scientist, he was able to Fischer was especially interested in matter reconcile apparent contradictions. Fischer that combined organic elements, such as combined metals and carbon compounds to carbon, with inorganic elements, such as iron create complex substances with previously or other metals. He wanted to understand unknown properties. In 1973, his ground- how such dissimilar elements could bond, and breaking work earned him the Nobel Prize in in the process of studying them, he discov- Chemistry. ered an unknown molecular composition: the “sandwich structure”.

ischer’s pioneering achievements in the Ffield of organometallic chemistry laid the foundation for the synthesis of numerous new substances and many synthetic materials. To this day, Fischer’s students continue to expand the field both in academia and in industry.

A1 | Ernst Otto Fischer, Technische Universität München | www.ch.tum.de/ernst_otto_fischer Test-tube vitamins A simple way to produce complex natural compounds synthetically

Vitamin D protects infants against rickets; elements attached to – their scaffolds. If vitamin C strengthens the immune system – you want to produce a specific compound in nature, these vital substances occur synthetically, you first have to construct naturally as complex compounds. Nowadays, the appropriate scaffold. inventions it is cheap and easy to produce vitamins synthetically, due primarily to the work of he discovery was pure coincidence. chemist Georg Wittig, who died in 1987. T“Wittig neither invented nor envisaged The carbonyl olefination reaction, which he this reaction. He discovered it. And that discovered and named, has since become proves once again that important research known as the Wittig reaction and has brought cannot usually be planned,” says Reinhard W. the researcher from Heidelberg international Hoffmann, professor emeritus at Marburg fame. In 1979, he was awarded the Nobel University and former colleague of the Nobel Prize for his work. laureate at Heidelberg University. Today, the Wittig reaction is used around the world ike all other organic substances, the in the synthetic production of natural subs- Lvitamins our bodies need are made up of tances such as vitamins, hormones, and a complex scaffold of carbon and hydrogen medicines. atoms. The characteristic traits of individual substances are determined by the structure of – and by the groups of other synthetic

A2 | Georg Wittig, Heidelberg University | www.uni-heidelberg.de/nobellaureates The factory of the future

When are industrial companies successful? ore than 60 doctoral students from When they manufacture goods that are Mproduction technology, materials sustainable, cost-effective, and reliable. They engineering, electrical engineering, and must also have production processes that can business management receive an interdisci- be adapted quickly to changing conditions. plinary education at GSaME and work in The Graduate School of Excellence advanced teams to conduct research into key topic Manufacturing Engineering (GSaME) at the areas and application-oriented solutions. University of Stuttgart follows these guiding Each doctoral student is awarded a scholar- principles. How can my company survive in ship lasting up to four years. The students turbulent international markets? How can I invest more than half their time in create more product versions in less time? working on specific projects that are Which employees are most suitable for the undertaken partly in collaboration job? GSaME addresses questions like these with industry. by taking an interdisciplinary approach that combines theory and practice.

A3 | Technische Universität Berlin, RWTH Aachen University and University of Stuttgart www.ptz-berlin.de/geschichte | www.exzellenz.rwth-aachen.de/go/id/sat | www.gsame.uni-stuttgart.de In Stuttgart, doctoral students are revolutionising production technologies and organisational structures

his means a machine tool manufacturer, Tfor example, gains a direct benefit from being involved in the development of a laser beam that can cut various materials to the inventions same high quality standard. The doctoral students also use a model factory to simulate effective organisational structures and IT systems. Business administration students carry out research into new management models that take social and ecological developments into consideration, as it is now recognised that beliefs and emotions have an influence on employees’ performance and customers’ purchasing decisions. The institute follows a dual educational system that combines research and training, theory and practice, and management and technology. This concept is considered unique in Europe and is supported by the German Research Foundation and the state of Baden-Württem- berg as part of the Excellence Initiative. Frontier physics The quantum Hall effect is the basis for completely new computers

Its findings may start a revolution – albeit not all voltage allows researchers to investi- necessarily an immediate one. Time and Hgate the movement, drift velocity, and again, basic research produces results whose concentration of charge carriers in semicon- importance often only becomes clear several ductor materials. Without the quantum Hall inventions decades later. A good example of this is the effect, modern nanotechnology and the exam- quantum Hall effect, discovered by physicist ination of the physical characteristics of Klaus von Klitzing in February 1980. semiconductors would hardly be possible. Now it seems that von Klitzing’s findings may, hen subjected to strong magnetic fields through quantum computing, revolutionise Wand temperatures close to absolute computer technology. Whereas conventional zero, electrical current does not increase in computers are based on classical physics – line with the increasing magnetic field, as is with bits existing in only one of two possible usually the case, but in series of steps. Von states, 0 or 1, at any one time – the qubits in Klitzing proved that the levels of resistance quantum computing can exist in several measured are integers – and components of a states at the same time. With this technology, value that represents a natural constant. The it could take just seconds to perform calcula- von Klitzing constant was thus established tions which would take even today’s fastest as a universal standard for the measurement computers years to solve. of electrical conductivity. For this work, the researcher received the Nobel Prize in 1985.

A4 | Klaus von Klitzing: University of Würzburg, Technische Universität München and University of Stuttgart www.ph.tum.de/personen/nobelpreise/klitzing | www.uni-wuerzburg.de/ueber/universitaet/ wissenschaftsmeile_roentgenring/die_nobelpreistraeger/klaus_von_klitzing_1985/ A quantum leap in measurement technology Ultramodern precision instruments from Munich

Light is one of the basic requirements for of these lines differ only slightly from one human life. The investigation of this natural another. These coloured lines divide the phenomenon, which is based on electroma- visible light spectrum into a precise scale, gnetic radiation, has been the subject of re- from red through to violet. The colours are inventions search for centuries. An understanding of light located next to one another like the teeth of led Albert Einstein to his theory of relativity a very fine comb. This is the “optical fre- and is the cornerstone of quantum physics. quency comb”. The frequency of a laser can be Lasers, atomic clocks, and satellite navigation measured precisely by observing a beatnote systems are just some of the many achieve- of low frequency with the nearest comb line. ments based on light-related discoveries. The invention represented a quantum leap forward for the precise quantification of time ne of the pioneers in this field is Theodor and distance, and Hänsch received the 2005 OWolfgang Hänsch. In 1998, he and a Nobel Prize in Physics for his work in this area. team of experts developed a new measur- ing tool – the frequency comb, which allows änsch’s current primary field of research extremely high-precision measurements of Hat the Ludwig-Maximilians-University laser beam oscillations. Its spectrum is made Munich is the high-resolution laser spectros- up of hundreds of thousands of extremely copy of hydrogen. fine lines of colour. The known frequencies

A5 | Theodor Wolfgang Hänsch, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich | www.physik.uni-muenchen.de

Following in the tracks of evolution

A6 | Ingo Rechenberg, Technische Universität Berlin | www.bionik.tu-berlin.de Scientists in Berlin use natural phenomena to solve technical problems

What do a Velcro fastener, an aircraft engine, Bionics at the Technische Universität Berlin Wikipedia, and a diving fin have in common? since 1972. The qualified aircraft engineer has All four inventions are based on principles developed a wind turbine that copies the found in nature. While walking his dog one principle of flow acceleration on the splayed inventions day, the Swiss engineer Georges de Mestral wingtip of a bird. He has also analysed how noticed that the seeds of the burdock – a penguins “fly” under water, investigated how plant species with tiny, flexible hooks – stuck the outer feathers of the Antarctic Skua are to his dog’s coat. Velcro works in exactly the used in braking reverse flow, designed a same fashion. A turbo jet engine uses the miniature helicopter that flies like a dragonfly, reverse thrust principle employed by jelly- and travelled to the Sahara to examine a skink fish, Wikipedia functions according to the lizard that can swim through desert sand with swarm intelligence of insects, and a diving minimal abrasion. fin imitates the webbed feet of frogs. or Rechenberg, bionics is a combination of umerous examples illustrate how evolution Fobserving nature closely and discovering Nhas come up with solutions perfectly new ways to apply the principles that are adapted to a particular situation that are revealed. That is why students at TU Berlin eminently transferable to technical problems. study subjects from both the biological and Bionics is the science of investigating how technical fields. Rechenberg explains that the natural phenomena can be used in the design aim is for the young scholars to “combine the of technical products. One of the pioneers in wonder and astonishment of a child with the this field is Ingo Rechenberg, Professor of pragmatic thinking of an engineer”. Design inspired by Mother Nature

One of engineering’s major goals to date has functioning of the brain has been one source been trying to pack ever more technology of inspiration. Neurons and synapses are into ever smaller spaces. However, this drive interconnected in such an ingenious fashion toward miniaturisation is limited by the size that they themselves determine along which of the materials being used. Materials scien- neighbouring neuron to relay a signal. tists at the Technische Universität Dresden’s Scientists are trying to replicate this process Max Bergmann Center have therefore decided using nano-switches. When inserted into a to come at the problem from the opposite computer, these switches would be 50 times direction, taking a bottom-up approach smaller than today’s transistors and would be to devising such structures. They are as- able to connect to each other autonomously. sembling individual atoms and molecules into ever more complex nanostructures. n medicine, molecules could emit electrical Isignals over nanowires as soon as particu- ature serves as their model: its principles lar bacteria, viruses, or tumour-cell DNA Nhave been perfected over millions of sequences show up, allowing for much earlier years, and no human being could devise detection of disease than is currently possible. anything more effective. A team of approxi- A further innovation under development at mately 100 materials scientists, biologists, the Max Bergmann Center is a range of chemists, physicists, and electrical engineers biomaterials consisting of silicate, collagen, are currently trying to replicate the structure and calcium-phosphate composites that help of naturally occurring substances, piece by the body repair and regenerate severely piece. Their findings could revolutionise both damaged bone and skin tissue. medicine and information technology. The Scientists in Dresden are copying nanostructures found in nature inventions

A7 | Materials scientists at Technische Universität Dresden | www.mbc-dresden.de Making the smallest particles visible

50 Picometer = 0,000 000 000 050 meter

A8 | Ernst Ruska, Technische Universität Berlin | www.er-c.org/centre/centre.htm | ernst.ruska.de One of the most powerful electron microscopes in the world is housed at Forschungszentrum Jülich

No piece of equipment demonstrates pro- he principle behind this type of magnifica- gress in the natural sciences better than the Ttion is as follows: an electron gun emits microscope. At the beginning of the 17th a beam that is focused by magnetic coils and century, Galileo Galilei was one of the first transmitted through the specimen. This beam inventions people to look into a compound microscope, bends depending on the electron density of which he himself had built. Four hundred the individual atoms, and is then captured years later, a high-performance electron by an objective lens and projected onto a microscope, which can even reveal atomic screen. This development made it possible to structures, was put into operation. Ernst look inside cells and crystals. Since the 1990s, Ruska, a German electrical engineer, played a ongoing improvements to the technology crucial role in advancing this development. have been able to correct fuzziness around the edges of the electron beams, known as compound microscope can magnify aberrations. The PICO electron microscope Aobjects up to 1,500 times. This is largely was constructed on the basis of this principle determined by the property of light waves, by scientists from Forschungszentrum Jülich which are between 0.4 and 0.7 microme- and RWTH Aachen University. Researchers tres long. Structures that are smaller in size and industry partners have been able to make cannot be detected, however, and moving use of the microscope in their work since electrons have much shorter wavelengths 2011. The microscope’s resolution of up to than light. In March 1931, Ernst Ruska and 50 picometres makes it possible to measure Max Knoll succeeded in producing the crystallites with a nano-sized diameter. first electron-optical magnification at the Technische Hochschule Berlin. Ruska re- ceived the Nobel Prize in Physics for this work in 1986, two years before his death. Expedition into the world of atoms

A9 | Peter Grünberg, University of Cologne | www.physik.uni-koeln.de Physicists are researching the foundations of tomorrow’s computer technology

Fast, compact storage media are now density of a hard drive, boost data transfer indispensable in our information-based speeds, and reduce energy consumption. society. The capacity of this storage media The idea is that electrons whir around an is no longer calculated in megabytes but in atom’s nucleus with different spin values. If inventions terabytes. Normally, it takes just millise- a nonmagnetic layer is placed between two conds for a computer to launch applications magnetised blocks, and if the polarisation of and for files to appear on the monitor. We one of the blocks is then reversed, then the have Peter Grünberg, primarily, to thank transmission of electrons with a specific spin for this speed. The physicist completed value changes – and, therefore, so does the his postdoctoral Habilitation thesis at the level of electrical conductivity. Today, most University of Cologne in 1984 and regularly hard drive read heads operate using the GMR gave lectures and seminars there as a senior effect, which Grünberg discovered in 1988. lecturer until 2004. Together with Albert Fert, he discovered the giant magnetoresis- ince 2011, physicists, computer scientists, tance (GMR) effect in 1988, which earned Sand nanotechnologists have been them the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2007. researching the basis of tomorrow’s informa- tion technology at the Peter Grünberg or decades, electrical charges have been Institute. The retired physicist, after whom Fused to process digital information. This the institute is named, is also involved in the technology is reaching its limits. But now, research, which looks at whether the spin of rather than using the charge of electrons, individual electrons can be turned off in order computers can use their intrinsic rotational to transmit information as microscopic momentum – or spin – to create a physical particles in accordance with quantum effect that may help to increase the storage mechanical principles. The universe‘s fingerprint

A10 | Rudolf Mößbauer, Technische Universität München www.ph.tum.de/personen/nobelpreise/moessbauer The Mößbauer effect, used for the precise analysis of materials, was discovered over 50 years ago

Mößbauer spectroscopy is used by archae- owever, if the iridium atoms are fixed ologists to analyse the composition of Hwithin a crystal lattice (the boat is tied ancient ceramics, by biophysicists to ex- together with many others), the whole lattice amine the behaviour of proteins, and by (or the boat platform) absorbs the impact. inventions materials scientists to determine which The gamma particles retain their energy materials to use in computer storage disks. and can then be absorbed by other iridium atoms. This is the Mößbauer effect. It allows n the 1950s, the young physicist Rudolf for precise measurements that reveal how a IMößbauer experimented with gamma rays particular atom is bound. Chemical changes that were emitted when the atomic nuclei of alter absorption behaviour, and every sub- the precious metal iridium underwent radio- stance exhibits its own unique behaviour, active decay. He beamed the rays at normal giving it a type of fingerprint. In 1961, at the iridium and noticed that they were absorbed age of 32, Mößbauer was awarded the Nobel by the atomic nuclei of the non-radioactive Prize for his discovery. He then went on to set sample. Normally, the emission and absorp- up the Physics Department of the Technische tion of gamma particles generates a so-called Universität München. He died in September recoil effect: the particles lose energy in a 2011. Most recently, robots on Mars used manner similar to the effect a swimmer has the Mößbauer effect to establish that water in pushing back a boat when jumping from must once have flowed on the red planet. it. The particles then no longer have enough energy to stimulate an iridium nucleus. Flying like a bird

Conventional aircraft construction reached its n the blended-wing-body (BWB) aeroplane, technological and economic limits with the Ithe fuselage and wings are not clearly Airbus A380, the world’s largest passenger differentiated parts of the aircraft, but rather airliner. Constructing something even bigger, blend smoothly into one another. This faster, or wider is impossible. But there is an increases the lift considerably and reduces alternative: an extremely flat aircraft called drag. These aeroplanes copy the aerodynam- the BWB AC 20.30. It looks like something ics of birds and therefore resemble them. that has just flown in from another galaxy, They can potentially consume up to a quarter but it was built in Hamburg. Young scholars less fuel than conventional aircraft, and and students at the HAW Hamburg’s Depart- refrigerated tanks can be incorporated into ment of Automotive and Aeronautical the large wings so that hydrogen can be used Engineering are carrying out research into a to power the aircraft. very unusual type of aeroplane. nnovative aircraft construction has a long Itradition in Hamburg. The industry currently employs around 30,000 people. The students of Professor Thomas Netzel have ambitious plans. By the year 2030 at the latest, a prototype of the BWB AC 20.30 is expected to take its maiden flight. Nine hundred passengers may then be able to fly halfway around the world without stopping. Scientists and students in Hamburg are developing a new type of aeroplane inventions

A11 | Hamburg University of Applied Sciences | www.haw-hamburg.de/ fakultaeten-und-departments/ti/forschung-entwicklung/studentische-projekte/projekte-2011/bwb.html Insights Historically, the humanities have expanded The kind of answers the humanities can upon the consequences of advances in the provide us is illustrated by the findings of the natural sciences. They provide answers to the art historian Klaus Bredekamp. He reported

challenges to which scientific progress gives that even in the 14th century, at the begin- insights rise, challenges that manifest themselves in ning of the Renaissance, an ancient statue of both technology and the life sciences. If Venus was destroyed in Siena because it was natural science research views nature in believed to be responsible for a series of terms of how it can be used to expand our military defeats. Delusional religious technical capabilities, the humanities see it distortions continue to exist in modern times as their mission to decode meaningful as well, demonstrating that the advancement connections. Some of the challenges posed by of knowledge is as fragile as the civilising the natural sciences are illustrated in the standards in which it is embedded. Indeed, following articles, including the ones we are driven to learn more about the presenting Cramer’s work on deciphering the realities of the world in order to arm oursel- language of genes, Jensen’s shell model, the ves against setbacks. The Historical Dictiona- research on the architecture of cells, and ry of Philosophy, which was written over the Meyer’s work in the area of evolutionary course of two generations, is especially biology. revealing in this regard. This work poses an apparent paradox: slowing down does, in fact, help us to keep pace with progress. Making genes talk

A human being consists of some 30,000 biomolecules working together in complex genes, while simple baking yeast has around synergies to transcribe genetic information. 6,000 and 100,000 can be found in cabba- This is how Cramer and his colleagues will ge. We’ve known the genomes of hundreds eventually reveal the structural design of the of organisms for a long time and can even entire translation process. Cramer has already understand the sequence of their building prepared a very detailed description of one blocks. But this knowledge alone isn’t all of the most important molecular translators, that helpful, notes Professor Patrick Cra- RNA polymerase II (Pol II for short). Now mer, a chemist. As Cramer says, “The most he’s turning his attention to its elder siblings exciting question is actually how the cell Pol I and III; of central importance for cell manages to get to the information that’s growth, their malfunction may lead to cancer. held in all those genes − and how the cell translates this information into a function ramer says: “We want to approach the that has some sort of effect in the body.” Clargely unresolved problem of genomic regulation using new techniques, and are n order to comprehend the cell’s decod- focusing on molecular systems biology.” Iing mechanism Cramer makes images of The chemist has been honoured for his its component parts: “X-ray crystallography achievements with numerous awards. is able to display the atomic structure of After holding positions at Cambridge, even very large and asymmetrically formed Grenoble, and Stanford, this leading macro-molecules.” His team uses special researcher moved to the Ludwig-Maxi- cryo-electron microscopy to capture the milians-University in Munich, where he three-dimensional structure of the various has headed the Gene Centre since 2004.

B1 | Patrick Cramer, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich | www.cramer.genzentrum.lmu.de Molecular translators of genetic information insights Architects of life’s building blocks

B2 | Joachim Spatz, Heidelberg University | www.pci.uni-heidelberg.de Alter cell structure to conquer serious diseases

Joachim Spatz is a kind of interior designer and medicine in order to produce better whose architectural practice focuses on implants and advance cancer research. designing tiny spaces in the biological realm.

At the Heidelberg University and at the Max patz engineers the contact between cells insights Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems Sand particular biomolecules. “These (Stuttgart), he deals with human cells and molecules consist of chemical substances tries to influence the structure of cells, i.e. that reach for the individual cell receptors their architecture. His research has contri- like hands and can change the position of buted much to the understanding of changes individual receptors,” notes Spatz. Nerve cells on the cellular level. are built differently than bone or blood cells and cell function determines cell structure. hy and how does cancer spread? To This statement also applies the other way Wfind answers to this question, we round. By altering the structure of cells Spatz must delve into the cellular nanocosmos, causes their biochemical signals to change, but without destroying it in the process. thereby activating other genes. This research Miniscule forces that influence the cellular may be of significant benefit to people suffer- cytoskeleton and determine its mechanical ing from disease or illness. It may one day be properties have to be measured. Joachim possible to change stem cell receptors so that Spatz is the pioneer in this field and has left cells become – as needed – skin or heart cells. his mark on what has been dubbed nanolitho- Immune cells might be able to resist specific graphy. His team is made up of physicists, infectious germs, or cancer cells might be chemists, and biologists, and their goal is beaten by the body’s own immune system. to build a bridge between nanotechnology A ray of light in mental darkness Using high-tech microscopy from Göttingen to observe the brain in action

As you read these words, hundreds of billions his is the ambitious goal pursued by the of neurons in your brain are working away so TCluster of Excellence and DFG Research that you can perceive, understand, perhaps Center “Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular

also learn, and, in the best case scenario, later Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB)” in Göttin- insights remember what you have read. All of these gen. Their work involves studying molecular processes are actually controlled and processes and interactions in neuronal cells executed by molecules. Yet, given the non-invasively. Such non-invasive observation complexity of the human brain, the question calls for novel light microscopy (nanoscopy) of how molecules function within their larger methods with unprecedented resolution, a network systems is an almost inexhaustible focal point for the Cluster. The revolutionary field of research. The biggest challenge lies in microscopy methods developed in the cluster applying the lessons learned in molecular allow the mapping of molecular processes in physiology for medical purposes so that in living neuronal cells at the scale of the future diseases such as Parkinson‘s, schizo- molecules critically involved in our thinking. phrenia, or Alzheimer’s can be treated more successfully.

B3 | Stefan Hell, Universität Göttingen | www.cmpb.uni-goettingen.de Cluster of Excellence and DFG Research Center “Nanoscale Microscopy and Molecular Physiology of the Brain (CNMPB)” | www.cmpb.org Free dance in the beehive

When Karl von Frisch won the Nobel Prize in ut how do bees communicate this 1973 alongside Nikolaas Tinbergen and Bknowledge to each other? Here von Konrad Lorenz, he was honoured for his Frisch made his most amazing discovery. research into hearing and vision in fish and, The bees use two differently choreographed above all, for his spectacular studies into the dances to communicate information: the behaviour of the Western honeybee. He round dance gives information about the discovered that bees differentiate between location of food and nearby food sources, plants through smell, and that their colour and the waggle dance directs fellow bees to perception is similar to a human’s. Their objects located further away. The dancing compound eyes afford a high level of visual bees waggle forward a short distance across discrimination, allowing them to perceive the vertical honeycomb within the hive, and movements clearly. And viewing small then turn in a semicircle back towards their sections of sky is sufficient for them to gather starting point. The direction of the dance information about both direction and time, illustrates the direction of the food; the as they possess an internal clock with three speed of the dance and the number of times different synchronisation and timing mecha- it is repeated communicate the distance. nisms. This allows them to locate and fly to areas where there might be food available. he discoveries made by the biologist have Talso served to inspire behavioural studies of birds, whales, monkeys, and many other animals. Nobel Laureate Karl von Frisch decoded the language of bees insights

B4 | Karl von Frisch, University of Würzburg www.biozentrum2.uni-wuerzburg.de | www.bienenforschung.biozentrum.uni-wuerzburg.de/ Translators in the realm of bacteria

The smallest and most versatile organisms on our planet communicate using chemical signals. Microorganisms are everywhere – they colonize flora, fauna, and human beings. Some of them cause diseases, others are essential to our health, and many species safeguard the very basis of our existence by degrading toxins in water and air or by ensuring that soil is fertile. Understanding the language of bacteria may render it possible to alter their properties, for example to prevent diseases. This is precisely the goal researchers at the Jena School for Microbial Communica- tion Graduate School (JSMC) are pursuing.

B5 | Jena School for Microbial Communication, University of Jena | www.jsmc.uni-jena.de Researchers decode how microorganisms communicate

icrobiological research has a long Mtradition in Jena. University and non- university research institutes collaborate on

various projects in this field, including the insights development of new antibiotics, the decon- tamination of soil, and the production of biomolecules for use in industrial processes.

arly-career researchers, in particular, Ebenefit from this expertise: three Inter- national Research Training Groups joined forces to establish the JSMC at the University of Jena in 2006. This umbrella organisation offers approximately 200 doctoral students from all over the world a comprehensive training programme that includes basic research on microbes as well as industrial applications. Collaborative projects abroad, scientific events with international guests and participation at conferences provide the researchers with opportunities to network internationally. After all, communication is essential for both microbes and scientists. In the universe of languages and literatures

“This too, my dear, is yet another sign that we should get out of here as quickly as possible.”

B6 | Peter Szondi, Freie Universität Berlin | www.geisteswissenschaften.fu-berlin.de/we03/ Transnational literary studies and modern comparative literature at the Peter Szondi-Institute

“When we were brought to Bergen-Belsen and Germany, warning of a new anti-Semitism, there was no butter, my grandmother turned and reflecting on the social responsibility of to her companion and said, ‘This too, my the scientist. The names of those who

dear, is yet another sign that we should get accepted Szondi’s invitations to visit the insights out of here as quickly as possible.’ That was Institute of General and Comparative all.” This anecdote from the life of Peter Literature at the Freie Universität Berlin Szondi – recounted and commented on by during his tenure are a testament to his Klaus Reichert – is, in its portrayal of a prominence. They include Theodor W. moment of such obvious misjudgement, more Adorno, Jacques Derrida, Jean Starobinski, appalling than the recollection of the and Gershom Scholem. atrocities themselves. As such, it provides insight into the “Szondi Method”, a technique oday the institute is dubbed Peter Szondi. that opens our eyes to the significance of the TIt is one of the world’s leading establish- seemingly trivial and the apparently irrele- ments for the field of comparative literature, vant. and is involved in collaborative research centres and graduate schools supported by ccording to Szondi, the focus should not the national Excellence Initiative. The Peter Abe on interpretation. He wanted to let a Szondi Institute regularly awards visiting poem speak for itself instead of talking about professorships to renowned writers and it, and he insisted that the insights gained translators. The first of these, in the summer from reading a particular poem were unique semester of 2005, was Herta Müller, who to the poem and not generally applicable. A went on to win the Nobel Prize in literature. major contribution of Szondi was the Subsequent guests have included Ilja internationalisation of literary studies in the Trojanow, Sibylle Lewitscharoff, and Rainald Federal Republic of Germany. Again and again Goetz. he addressed the situation of the Jews in The aesthetics of the moment The history of art and images from antiquity to the present

How are Hans-Peter Briegel, who played scenes from the 16th century. “With every defence for the West German football team in game, everything begins anew; every player is the 1980s, and Leonardo da Vinci’s fresco of essentially naked, like the artist in front of the

the Battle of Anghiari connected? A compa- canvas.” insights rison of a sports photograph from 1982 with this Renaissance painting reveals exactly how. ot everything can be rationalised, and Both images portray extreme circumstan- Nthis is reflected in the fact that there is no ces and people at the limits of physical and way around aesthetic rules, even in football. mental exertion. The similarities in the two “All the analyses of a football’s path, a scenes depicted, down to the smallest details, player’s moves, and all the tactical statistics are astounding, and both images captivate us have done little to influence the game itself.” with their highly choreographed composition. No trainer would advocate that players should drive the ball directly down the middle of the he scholar who first brought this connec- pitch and abandon the more elegant path Ttion to light is one equally well-versed in through the side lines, even if statistics have low and high culture: Horst Bredekamp. He shown that the former is more successful. relies on the fact that images are able to Playing the game on the side lines simply express what language cannot: “It serves both looks better. As a professor of art history and word and image to illuminate each other. one of the most internationally renowned Language helps us understand images; experts in the field, Bredekamp’s iconography images help us understand language.” This has helped us to see better − and not just with means we can interpret contemporary ball regards to football. games as metaphorical re-enactments of war

B7 | Horst Bredekamp, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin www.kunstgeschichte.hu-berlin.de | www.bildakt-verkoerperung.de Cell biology research into serious illnesses

It is not a particularly romantic notion, but the human body is like a gigantic control room. In each cell, bio-machines – so-called macromolecular complexes – control all vital processes. They organise waste disposal, cellular respiration, and communication between the cells. Malfunctions within these complexes can be partially responsible for Alzheimer‘s and cancer.

B8 | Harald Schwalbe, University of Frankfurt | http://www.cef-mc.de/ Research into the cellular causes of cancer and Alzheimer’s disease is underway at the Cluster of Excellence “Macromolecular Complexes”

esearch into these diseases is central he Macromolecular Complexes graduate Rto the work of the Cluster of Excellence Tprogramme belongs to the Graduate Pro- “Macromolecular Complexes” (CEF), which gramme of the Cluster of Excellence Frankfurt

was founded in Frankfurt am Main in No- (GRACE). The programme trains outstanding insights vember 2006. The establishment of this scientists who possess – in addition to their cluster was a collaboration of the Univer- scientific knowledge – professional skills sity of Frankfurt with the Max Planck Insti- such as academic writing, presentation skills tutes for Biophysics and Brain Research. and leadership qualities. Great emphasis is placed on the exchange of interdisciplin- ary knowledge through the collaboration of students from various disciplines, such as biochemistry, electron microscopy, or neuroscience. At the end of the programme, the young scientists prepare projects which serve as the basis for a postdoc. The spokes- man for the cluster, Harald Schwalbe, says: “The optimal conditions offered by the cluster have also opened up new opportunities for us to attract young researchers from abroad”. Werner Müller-Esterl, President of the Uni- versity of Frankfurt, feels similarly. He adds: “The CEF has made outstanding contribu- tions in its initial funding period, something which has been further strengthened by the construction of its own research facility.” The vocabulary of world history

It is a sign of great confidence to begin a he work was conducted under the “cosmic” undertaking such as the Historical Tauspices of the Academy of Sciences, Dictionary of Philosophy. It requires perseve- Humanities, and Literature in Mainz, and was rance, secure financial resources, and the in- funded by the Federal Ministry of Education trinsic motivation of the scholarly community. and Research and the State of Berlin. It remains a blessing to be able to revert back to he work was published from 1971 to 2005 a book that outlines the definitive concepts of Tunder the editorship of Joachim Ritter (†), Western thought and of Jewish, Arabic, and Karlfried Gründer, and Gottfried Gabriel. The Far Eastern philosophy and describes how 12th and final volume was completed by each evolved over time. the editor Gabriel of the University of Jena in 2007. The figures are impressive: 6,000 housands of anonymous wiki authors articles on 3,670 philosophical terms by 1,500 Twill presumably make use of the digital authors, all of them subject-matter experts. version of the dictionary to provide additions and updates that may prove necessary over the years. Ritter would be pleased that the torch has been passed on in this unconven- tional, but very contemporary, manner.

B9 | Joachim Ritter, University of Münster, Karlfried Gründer, Universität Bochum and Freie Universität Berlin, Gottfried Gabriel, University of Jena | www.hwph.ch The Historical Dictionary of Philosophy is one of the grandest academic projects

HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES HISTORISCHES WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH WÖRTERBUCH DER DER DER DER DER DER DER DER DER DER DER DER R PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE PHILOSOPHIE insights

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 A-C D-F G-H I-K L-Mn Mo-O P-Q R-Sc Se-Sp St-T U-V W-Z Register What holds the world together

B10 | Johannes Hans Daniel Jensen, Heidelberg University www.uni-heidelberg.de/nobellaureates | www.physik.uni-heidelberg.de/index/en Magic numbers stabilise the nucleus of an atom

Have you heard of the “Atomium”, built in ater, Jensen and Goeppert-Mayer collabo- Brussels for Expo ’58, the Brussels World’s L rated to explain the properties of lighter Fair? It depicts the atomic shell model, atoms, and they published these findings

which expands on Bohr’s liquid droplet in 1955 in the book “Elementary Theory of insights model of 1913. It was a long 42 years later Nuclear Shell Structure”. In 1963, they were before Johannes Hans Daniel Jensen and awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for their Maria Goeppert-Mayer were able to estab- findings, along with Eugene Wigner. Heidel- lish the shell model of the atomic nucleus. berg University, where Jensen worked from 1949 until his retirement in 1969 belongs ow it became clear that atoms with the to this day to the most prestigious research N“magic numbers” (2, 8, 20, 28, 50, 82, institutions in atomic physics. Students can and 126) of protons or neutrons in their nuclei complete an international master’s program are very stable and occur frequently. But here, and in addition there is also a gradu- from where does this stability come? Jensen ate school for fundamental physics. In 2008, explained it in 1948 with spin-orbit cou- on the hundred-year anniversary of Jensen’s pling, the interaction between an electron’s birth, the first annual J. Hans D. Jensen Prize spin and its orbital angular momentum. for outstanding theoretical physicists was If the shells in the atomic nucleus are full, awarded. Among other things, the prize funds the atom’s spin-orbit coupling is stable. It a visiting professorship for internationally was this finding that first allowed scientists recognised scientists at Heidelberg University. to explain various atomic properties, such as the mirror symmetries and torques, of many stable and radioactive nuclei. Observing and understanding evolution

How do new species evolve? Since the days of Charles Darwin biologists have sought to understand how new species evolve. Axel Meyer, professor at the University of Kons- tanz, is among those contemporary evoluti- onary biologists who are retracing Darwin’s footsteps with modern molecular methods. Meyer, a zoologist by training, has chosen as his subject the cichlids of East Africa’s Great Lakes and Nicaragua’s crater lakes. “These fish are a prime example of the imaginative- ness of evolution,” Meyer observes. “In Lake Victoria alone 500 different species have evolved in less than 100,000 years.” In the crater lakes of Nicaragua there are species of cichlids that are found only in a single crater lake, which is less than 2,000 years old.

B11 | Axel Meyer, University of Konstanz www.evolutionsbiologie.uni-konstanz.de/index.php?section=10 | www.broadinstitute.org/models/tilapia How the genome controls the diverse shapes and colours of cichlid fishes

or all these species to survive, they must hysical characteristics are therefore not Fadapt. “There are one-of-a-kind eating Pa reliable indication of the evolution- specialists that only crack snails,” Meyer ary relationships between living beings – so

explains, “while others pick out the eyes of Meyer’s conclusion, adding, “Evolution re- insights bigger fish or eat their scales. Some of the peats itself, and in so doing follows evolution- cichlids in Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika ary biological and genetic laws that depend are similarly specialised.” For this reason on ecological factors.” It is this connection it was thought that all the snail-cracking between evolutionary biology and genet- cichlids from the Great Lakes region were ics that the biologist from Konstanz is now closely related. However, genetic testing tracking down using the latest methods of showed that the different varieties within genome research. For instance, his team is each lake come from just one common part of an international consortium seeking ancestor. In other words, they are more to learn more about the cichlid genome. “We closely related to each other than to similar are also looking for genes that determine cichlids in neighbouring lakes, showing that the shape of the lips and teeth of the fish or these astonishing adjustments originated influence their social behaviour,” adds Meyer. independently on multiple occasions. Even standard methods are useful, such as classic breeding experiments with different species of cichlids, hundreds of which Meyer keeps in his aquaria. Fresh supplies of test subjects are sourced during diving trips in the African and Nicaraguan lakes, because, as Meyer notes, “To understand the fish, I need to observe them in their natural habitat.” Excellent cooperation

“Strength in numbers” was a slogan that he Graduate School of Systemic Neurosci- summed up the student protests of 1968. It Tences (GSN) is an institute at the Ludwig- meant that the revolution would only be Maximilians-University Munich that encom- brought about by concerted action. And what passes the neurosciences, psychology, is basic research, if not an attempt at a (know- electrical engineering, and theoretical ledge) revolution? Cutting-edge research is biophysics, enabling an integrated approach increasingly being conducted in clusters and to research into highly complex brain schools. processes. Every year, each of these graduate schools accepts 25–30 outstanding national his research encompasses examining high and international bachelor’s and master’s Tmass stars that refract light like a lens, degree holders from various disciplines to terahertz rays that can test substances or enter its doctoral programme. High-calibre recognise tumours, and many other impor- bachelor’s graduates can complete their PhD tant topics. The Bonn-Cologne Graduate degrees within four years in the PhD fast-track School of Physics and Astronomy (BCGS), for programme. The best are also awarded example, is a collaboration between the generous fellowships. Since 2007, both universities of Bonn and Cologne to conduct graduate schools have received funding from cutting-edge research in theoretical physics. the Excellence Initiative of the German Recently, it has wrestled with how to Research Foundation. understand the formation and structure of the world in its entirety.

B12 | BCGS, University of Bonn and University of Cologne, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich www.gradschool.physics.uni-bonn.de | www.gsn.lmu.de Graduate schools: Synergies in research for young science researchers insights Existence The examples of research showcased in this has allowed patients who had previously section share the objective of improving been impaired in their movements, despite our existence, whether through expanding undergoing complicated operations, to live medical treatment options, reducing the symptom-free lives. Researchers in Aachen existence impact of diseases, or developing and im- are developing a retinal implant that offers proving diagnostic methods. blind people a certain degree of vision, and in Cologne, researchers are exploring the Feodor Lynen’s discoveries on diabetes have use of carbon monoxide to heal wounds. helped to combat a veritable epidemic. Zur Hausen’s finding that cervical cancer is Humans are more than mere matter, how- caused by viruses has facilitated prevention ever. Through hermeneutics, a methodology through targeted immunisation programmes. for holistic understanding and interpretation, Advances in minimally invasive surgery have philosophers in Freiburg are using psycholo- led to improved success rates and faster gical insights to complete our knowledge of recoveries for patients. Renewable cartilage the physical underpinnings for our existence. A ray of hope for the blind A retinal implant from Aachen helps people regain partial sight

First colours and contrasts fade, then the field Mokwa. Six completely blind patients allowed of vision begins to shrink. Finally the world the prototype to be implanted for a four-week turns to night – forever. This inexorable loss trial period – and those patients were able to

of sight can be the result of a genetic disorder recognise wirelessly transmitted test signals existence named retinitis pigmentosa. More than three as bright spots. million people worldwide suffer from this in- curable condition, which destroys light-sensi- ngoing research on the retina implant tive retinal cells, although the neurons in the Ofocuses on refining the coupling of the retina remain partially intact. This is where electrodes with the nerve cells. “This can electrical engineer Wilfried Mokwa’s comple- only succeed once we know more about the tely novel visual prosthesis comes into play. spatial structure of the degenerated retina. If photoreceptors die off as a result of pro- igh-tech wireless glasses with a built-in gressive retinitis, then the interconnected Hcamera record the image data and send it nerve cells begin the process of rewiring. wirelessly to a chip placed inside the retina. We want to capture this neural restructuring, The chip then transmits the received signals so that we can tailor the design of our system via electrodes to the nerve cells, stimulating accordingly,” Mokwa explains. Biologists from the remaining healthy nerves. As a result, the Forschungszentrum Jülich and doctors contours in one’s surroundings become more from the university hospitals in Aachen and clearly visible. The feasibility of this concept Essen are supporting this research. has been proven using a simple visual prosthesis of 25 electrodes developed by

C1 | Wilfried Mokwa, RWTH Aachen University | www.iwe1.rwth-aachen.de A poison that heals

Pinch your finger, and you will see it immedi- ans-Günther Schmalz of the Institute ately: a fleck of black-and-blue. Soon it turns Hof Organic Chemistry at the University green, then yellow, and eventually it disap- of Cologne explains: “Unfortunately, our pears. Heme oxygenase plays a role in all of systems are only able to produce the neces- these stages; this naturally occurring enzyme sary amounts of carbon monoxide in the breaks down blood in the damaged tissue same place where haemoglobin is broken while simultaneously releasing a beneficial down: the red blood cells.” The chemist is gas. That gas is carbon monoxide (CO), and it certain that other cells and tissues could prevents the affected cells from dying. also benefit from the healing power of this molecule. Thus, his goal is to introduce his colourless and odourless gas is the gas into the body without poisoning it. Tmore commonly known for its le- Elaborating on the concept, Schmalz said, thal effects. When inhaled, it enters the “We’ve engineered molecules that contain bloodstream and obstructs the supply of iron, which can form bonds with carbon oxygen, resulting in suffocation, but the monoxide that are initially stable. Only when danger is in the dosage size. Applied in they reach a cell, where the bonds are broken small amounts in the right places, carbon down by enzymes, do they release the carbon monoxide can have healing powers. It can monoxide.” The new molecules offer a range act as an anti-inflammatory and a vasodila- of possibilities for therapeutic applications. tor, and it helps stimulate circulation. Currently, kidney specialists are testing carbon monoxide’s capacity to protect organs intended for transplant, while dermatologists are examining its healing effect on burns.

Chemists want to treat illnesses with carbon monoxide existence

C2 | Hans-Günther Schmalz, University of Cologne | www.schmalz.uni-koeln.de The Methuselah method Using adult stem cells to prevent age-related disorders

Brain cells and internal organs age and either in almost all organs and can, unlike normal gradually or suddenly cease to function as in cells, reproduce and renew themselves. Unlike the case with Alzheimer’s disease or coronary embryonic stem cell implantation, there is

malfunctions. The human body contains its no need for risky cell transplant operations. existence own so-called adult stem cells (AS). Adult stem cells contribute to the preservation and udolph has just scored a first coup: he has regeneration of our tissue and organs through- Rdiscovered that a specific signal molecule out our lives. However, adult stem cells restricts the functioning of adult stem cells show signs of age and eventually lose their as they age. His team has developed several functionality, leading to decreased organ drugs that seek to keep this molecule in function in old age. check. Rudolph states, “Now we want to see whether we really can prolong the function- he research group led by Karl Lenhard ing of different types of stem cells in this way. TRudolph at the University of Ulm wants Failing that, we could develop medicines to understand the mechanisms that lead for diseases which are caused by an organ’s to this loss of function in AS. Pharmaco- limited regenerative capacity.” As we face the logically viable substances, able to support challenge of aging populations, the impor- cellular regeneration, could be developed tance of this research is continuously increas- as a result of the findings. Adult stem cells ing. In recognition of his work, the doctor has have a great advantage as they are found been granted the renowned Leibniz Prize.

C3 | Karl Lenhard Rudolph, University of Ulm www.uni-ulm.de/home2/presse/aktuelles-thema/stammzellenalterung-06122008.html The chemistry of life Nobel laureate Feodor Lynen investigated biochemical processes in humans

Diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes are so wi- confirmed this through experiments and despread globally that they could be referred proved the existence of acetyl coenzyme A. to as the epidemics of the 21st century. Their The report of his research findings was com-

causes are rooted in metabolic processes. prised of just one single, highly controversial existence Understanding these diseases, and others page. He became an internationally renowned like them, has been a major focus of research researcher practically overnight. His discovery since the middle of the 20th century. At that laid the foundations for clinical research into time, biochemists from all over the world lipid metabolic disorders such as the origin were studying metabolic processes. One of of diabetes mellitus and arteriosclerosis. these processes involved activating acetic acid in such a way that made it possible to ynen felt it was appropriate when he was track changes going on within the body. Lawarded the Nobel Prize in 1964 (along- side Konrad Emil Bloch). He certainly tried n 1951, Feodor Lynen’s experiments at the everything in his power to sway his luck. He ILudwig-Maximilians-University Munich led never had the intention of founding a school, to a breakthrough in this area. He managed to yet that is exactly what happened. Many of isolate activated acetic acid from yeast cells. his students became professors at universities This “acetyl coenzyme A” is involved in many and Max Planck Institutes. The “Lynen School” metabolic processes. Its discovery started very soon had campuses all over the world. with Lynen’s hunch that acetate residues could be bound together using sulphur. He

C4 | Feodor Lynen, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich | www.genzentrum.lmu.de Early diagnosis and treatment at a glance

Until now, a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease display abnormalities that then can be used has signified a lost battle against time. The to infer corresponding processes within the illness may have been developing over the brain. This can be done long before the typical course of two decades before it actually symptoms of Alzheimer’s manifest them- manifests itself; the brain can compensate selves. Using mice that have been geneti- for the loss of cells for a long time before the cally modified to have Alzheimer’s disease, first signs are noticed. By this time, a third of researchers are simultaneously examining the brain’s cells may have been destroyed, the pathology of the retina, the olfactory and, at this stage, the disease can no longer epithelium and cortex in vivo as the disease be halted. For each individual – and for their progresses. The aim is to enable doctors to friends and relatives – the diagnosis repre- start treating the disease before irreversible sents a catastrophe. This is set to change. The damage occurs – so that a diagnosis does not department of Translational Brain Research necessarily preclude all hope of a recovery. at the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) in Munich is working on his research is accompanied by studies new diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Tconducted at the Clemens Schöpf Institute of the Technische Universität Darmstadt to europathologist Jochen Herms and his identify fluorophores that make abnormali- Nteam are on a promising path toward ties in the retina or the olfactory epithelium early detection of the disease. In the future, observable through the use of laser scanning a glance into a patient’s eye or nose could and other optical devices. Optics companies make all the difference. Herms’ theory is that such as Carl Zeiss Jena and Karl Storz AG abnormalities found in the retinas or the are currently developing such equipment. olfactory epithelium of Alzheimer’s sufferers The development of new optical diagnostic methods for the early detection of Alzheimer’s existence

C5 | Jochen Herms, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich www.dzne.de/standorte/muenchen/forschergruppen/herms.html | www.neuropathologie.med.uni-muenchen.de Tracking life

C6 | Michael Reth, University of Freiburg | www.bioss.uni-freiburg.de/cms/index.php Using a new method to analyse biological signals

How do living cells work? Where do they ones in order to create simplified model get their energy from, when do they divi- systems. Furthermore, they are developing de, and why do some mutate and become artificial molecules with which they are able

cancer cells? If you are looking for answers to manipulate and uncover signalling paths in existence to these questions, you need to study a targeted way. This approach originated in biological signals, as they regulate all vital the field of synthetic biology, a new branch of processes within and between cells. “Many the life sciences. The University of Freiburg diseases such as cancer or rheumatism occur was the first to have a professorship in this due to misdirected signalling processes. A discipline, supplemented by an assistant better understanding of the correlations professorship of synthetic biology and could revolutionise medical diagnostics signalling processes. “This combination of and therapy,” Michael Reth says. The bio- subjects is unique in the world and the ideal logist is the spokesperson and founder of opportunity to define the essential character- the BIOSS Centre for Biological Signalling istics of a signal process,” emphasizes Reth. Studies, one of the Clusters of Excellence at the University of Freiburg, whose motto is umerous biologists, chemists, and “Moving from analysis towards synthesis.” Ncomputer scientists who now work within the Cluster of Excellence came to Freiburg iological signalling structures are highly from Asia, the United States, and other Bcomplex. To investigate them, the European countries. The centre’s BIOSS junior Freiburg-based scientists are utilising a new professorships and the Spemann Graduate kind of research strategy: instead of just School of Biology and Medicine help to attract analysing every component within a process, young scientists. they are concentrating on the most crucial Bold new remedies

Cartilage damage in the knee is a common rather like a ball of wool. Its structure serves injury, as the knee must carry the weight of to stabilise the cells and causes them to grow the entire body. It has to endure extreme in all directions and ultimately fix into place. stress during sporting activities, and may be submitted to constant stress as if a person is n additional attractant is used to ensure overweight. The knee joint is covered by firm Athat healthy cells will later make their but flexible cartilage tissue. If this cartilage is way into the “ball of wool”. Like bees to ever damaged through an accident, compe- nectar, it is meant to draw intact stem cells titive sport, or even simple wear and tear, it from the bone marrow to the cartilage. can no longer protect the joint – it wears out. There, the stem cells are instructed to create cartilage cells, so that in the end, the entire ichael Sittinger and his colleagues at the ball will be filled with them. The ball is then MCharité have been attempting to find surgically implanted in the knee. Because a cure using special attractants. These are the nest structure of the ball is made of inserted into the knee to “lure” healthy cells degradable fibres, it dissolves completely from the bone marrow into the surrounding within a few months. The cartilage adheres cartilage, and from there to the exact location to the knee joint, the injury is cured, and of the injury. To this end, a kind of nest, into the knee can once again withstand stress. which the healthy cells can settle, is con- Athletes, overweight individuals, and structed in the laboratory. This nest consists health insurance companies are following of numerous small, artificial fibres and looks this research work with great interest. Doctors stimulate the growth of cartilage in the knee existence

C7 | Michael Sittinger, Jochen Ringe, Charité Berlin | bcrt.charite.de/index.php?id=101 Understanding and interpretation

… in the awareness of one’s own limits and through the recognition of the other in his unfamiliarity

Hans-Georg Gadamer | Sein, das verstanden werden kann, ist Sprache

C8 | Hans-Georg Gadamer, Heidelberg University | www.philosophie.uni-hd.de/gadamerprofessur/gadamer.html Hermeneutics of Hans-Georg Gadamer

Hans-Georg Gadamer is regarded as one of adamer engaged in intense debates with the leading figures in philosophical herme- GJürgen Habermas and Karl-Otto Apel, neutics. A student of Husserl and Heidegger, examining whether the acceptance of a truth

Gadamer argued in his major work “Truth arrived at through consensus was not in fact existence and Method” (published in 1960) that, in naive, due to the fact that it may underesti- principle, hermeneutics can apply to ethical mate power structures that are not made and aesthetic questions and issues in any apparent through dialogue. This debate was a area of life. According to Gadamer, numerous rare example of academic opponents taking forms of knowledge and behaviour can the arguments of their critics seriously and themselves be described as acts of under- using them productively to further develop standing and interpretation, a view which their own theories. Gadamer’s influence on exerted a strong influence on literary her- Habermas’s concept of discourse free from meneutics and on the arts and humanities. constraint or coercion is unmistakeable. Today, Gadamer’s influence is still seen in the writings of the philosophy of scepticism and in the work of his students.

t was Odo Marquard, a representative of Iphilosophical scepticism in the tradition of Gadamer, who put it so aptly: “The philoso- phers of history, in various ways, have only changed the world – what matters is sparing it; the way to spare it that brings about the most change, however, is through interpreta- tion.” A vaccination against cancer Viruses as the trigger for cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is recognised to be the second n 2006, a usable vaccine was developed most common malignant tumour in women Ifrom the surface proteins of the virus worldwide. It was the physician and biologist particles allowing young women to protect

Harald zur Hausen who discovered how themselves against life-threatening growths. existence malignant cell growth, and consequently For this accomplishment, zur Hausen was cervical cancer, comes about. honoured in 2008 with the Nobel Prize for Medicine. Today zur Hausen believes that arald zur Hausen focused his research viruses and other pathogens can cause Hon the role that viral infections play various malignant tumours: “Infectious in the development of cancer. Previously, events probably play a much bigger role in medical opinion had excluded the possibil- carcinogenesis than previously thought,” ity that viruses could trigger the onset of says the doctor. From 1983 to 2003, he cancer. By 1974, zur Hausen had published headed the German Cancer Research Cen- a hypothesis claiming that the human ter in Heidelberg and “encourages young papillomavirus (HPV) could contribute to researchers to pursue this track further.” the development of cervical cancer. In the early 1980s, he and his team at the Univer- sity of Freiburg succeeded in substantiat- ing this hypothesis when they were able to isolate HPV types 16 and 18 in cervical cancer tissue. This discovery opened new perspectives for prevention and treatment.

C9 | Harald zur Hausen, University of Freiburg www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/medicine/laureates/2008/hausen.html Information Information has come to be regarded as the This section is only able to cover some of most important resource for value creation these topics as representative examples of and quality of life. It is therefore essential research conducted at universities in Ger- to understand information and utilise it many. How the brain makes decisions, and efficiently and effectively. The first aspect of which stimuli are processed in order to do information information to consider is how it is created: so, is being investigated by neurobiologists facts can be turned into data through inves- and philosophers at the Berlin School of Mind tigation, data can be turned into information and Brain. In Bremen, neuroscientists are through understanding knowledge can be enquiring into whether human free will is produced by integrating information into simply an illusion. Four of the articles focus existing structures, and adding up-to-date on the use of new techniques to collect, information to knowledge by intelligently transport, disseminate, and protect data linking means and ends can produce action. – accuracy, speed, and security come into A second aspect of information is its usage as play here. Other articles address innovative a resource – how it is transmitted and disse- applications of information, for example, in minated. This encompasses data collection, analytical chemistry, brain surgery, busi- storage, and transfer, as well as the exchange ness process optimisation, and intercultural of knowledge through communication. A communications. German universities are third aspect is the rational, efficient, and often global leaders in this type of research. ethically responsible use of information. Common spirit

“Complex questions about the way the human neuroscience? Must we give up the belief brain works can no longer be answered by that we can think and act for ourselves? just one academic discipline,” says Michael Pauen, from the Department of Philosophy at tudents at the Berlin School of Mind and the Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin. He and SBrain receive a well-founded education in the neurologist Arno Villringer, director of the neuroanatomy and imaging, as well as in Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and philosophy and linguistics. They are super- Brain Sciences and professor at the Charité vised by two professors – one from the mind Berlin, are the academic directors of the sciences and one from the brain sciences – Berlin School of Mind and Brain. to ensure their interdisciplinary PhD project is successful. “That exists nowhere else in he joint appointment symbolises the idea the world,” Villringer emphasis. A total of Tbehind this graduate school, which is dedi- 60 researchers are involved, including philo- cated to research at the interface between sophers, psychologists, linguists, biologists, mind and brain. It is committed to the very and physicians. The six main areas of research biggest questions: What is consciousness? are decision-making, perception, language, Who is it doing the thinking? Is it just the neuroplasticity and ontogenetic brain sum of our neurons and how they intercon- development, brain disorders and mental nect inside our brain? Or is there something dysfunction, and social cognition. else behind it, beyond the boundaries of Philosophers and neurobiologists are investigating our brain information

D1 | Michael Pauen, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Arno Villringer, Charité Berlin |www.mind-and-brain.de A question of will?

D2 | Gerhard Roth, University of Bremen | www.ifh.uni-bremen.de/roth A new look at old questions

Certain questions occupied Gerhard Roth, pro- now encourages young scientists to take an fessor at the Brain Research Institute of the interdisciplinary approach to their work. University of Bremen, even as a schoolboy. What is the mind? Where does perception ori- oth explores the existence of free will. ginate? Why is man conscious of himself? He R“Psychologists and neurobiologists are information sought answers as a student of philosophy in agreed that all human activity is driven by Münster and Rome. “It was there that I learned conscious or unconscious motives,” he says everything about what intelligent people from – recognising, of course, how this contra- Plato to Kant and Hegel thought – but no one dicts the idea of free will as postulated by could tell me who was right,” recalls Roth. Immanuel Kant. In terms of everyday life, Roth refers to the words of Scottish philoso- o Roth made his way to other disci- pher David Hume: a person feels free if he Splines. He was particularly influenced is able to do what he wants. That said, the by the work of biologist Bernhard Rensch Bremen scientist realises that findings from and psychologist Wolfgang Metzger. Rensch brain research present a dilemma for the had investigated whether chimpanzees criminal justice system. Legal systems are were capable of planned behaviour, while still predicated on Kant’s concept of free Metzger, a leading Gestalt psychologist, will, and it forms the basis for establish- showed how our perception of the world is ing the criminal liability of an offender. But defined by our senses. Roth was unable to neurobiological findings demand at least a pursue these intellectual approaches further re-examination of this premise. Roth thus in the Faculty of Philosophy, so he began observes that “more and more legal profes- to study zoology in addition to philosophy. sionals question whether the concept of He earned doctorates in both subjects and criminal liability remains a valid principle”. A magnet for particle physicists

D3 | Wolfgang Paul, University of Bonn | www.pi.uni-bonn.de/aktuelles/wolfgang-paul-vorlesungen www.pi.uni-bonn.de/aktuelles/wolfgang-paul-vorlesungen/wolfgang-paul-biographie To this day, the University of Bonn still benefits from the work of Nobel Prize winner Wolfgang Paul

In order to analyse unknown substances, he physicist Wolfgang Paul was a ions (electrically charged particles) can be Tpioneer in the field of particle phys- used to make their characteristics visible. ics and mass spectrometry. As director of But first, those ions need to be “trapped”. the Physics Institute of the University of A “Paul trap” can be used to capture, store, Bonn, he and Helmut Steinwedel devel- information and subsequently release the ions. To do oped the quadrupole mass filter in 1953. this, it is necessary to know their magnetic moment. Depending on the type of interac- eorge Stafford further developed the ting fields, the ions can be trapped in isolated Gion trap to create the Paul trap in 1983, groups or all together in a quadrupole field. whereupon the technology was adopted in the analytical chemistry field. This inven- tion went on to play an important role in the development of the quantum computer, but is mainly used for analysing substances in ion trap mass spectrometers. In 1989, the invention of the ion trap earned Paul the Nobel Prize in Physics, an honour he shared with Norman Foster Ramsey and Hans Georg Dehmelt. He also received numerous national and international awards. Paul donated half of his Nobel Prize money to establish a foundation for the promotion of interna- tional relations in science, which allows for outstanding physicists to be invited to Bonn. Computer programme is the key to success

Complex and dynamically interrelated pro- Systems, or ARIS. Now the basis of many of cesses are constantly at play in businesses. today’s software products, the ARIS model These information, communication, planning, facilitates the analysis, control, and optimisa- control, and monitoring processes ultimate- tion of business processes. It was developed ly represent added value. Often, however, at the Institute for Information Systems (IWi) they are not clearly organised, have been at the German Research Center for Artificial implemented in an ad hoc manner, or are Intelligence (DFKI) at the Saarland University. the result of historical developments. They In order to transfer his principle of business- are difficult to understand and generally not process modelling into real-world settings, he coordinated in the most effective way. It is founded the company IDS Scheer (Integrated a long-held dream within business econo- Data-Processing Systems) in 1984. It rapidly mics to one day be able to perfectly design conquered the markets, becoming a world systems that tend to be chaotic – what Otto leader within just a few years. IDS, once listed Schnutenhaus once defined as the “maxi- on the German stock exchange, was acquired mum overall safeguarding of interactions”. by Software AG in 2010.

urning that dream into a fundamental and cheer was named “Entrepreneur of the Tuniversally applied reality was the lifelong SYear” and was awarded the Philip Morris research aim of August-Wilhelm Scheer. He Research Prize, the German Federal Cross of became famous as the designer of the Merit 1st Class, and many other honours. Architecture of Integrated Information

D4 | August-Wilhelm Scheer, Saarland University | www.idw-online.de/pages/de/news71435 ; iwi.dfki.de/ Software facilitates control of business processes information In the privacy of the World Wide Web

When tens of thousands of protestors in “We are developing software here with which Egypt, Tunisia, and Syria took to the streets people can communicate anonymously on the in 2011 they made use of technology that internet.” People living in authoritarian states, had been developed almost 2,000 kilomet- who fear repression from governments or res away, in the German city of Darmstadt. other organisations, have used tools like these There, Thorsten Strufe is a junior professor to exchange personal information safely. at the Technische Universität and says,

D5 | Thorsten Strufe, Technische Universität Darmstadt| www.p2p.tu-darmstadt.de/research Programming of a secure social network

trufe is Chair of the P2P Networks Group at the STU Darmstadt. He and his team are working on a particularly exciting subject: he is seeking to establish a genuinely secure online social network. In terms of security, there are two disadvantages information to systems like Facebook. First, confidential data is stored on a small number of networked servers. Whoever manages to crack the system can easily access sensitive data about millions of people. Second, the administrators of social networks often collect enormous amounts of information about their members, enabling them to broadcast private interests, contacts, and preferences.

his is why the Darmstadt scientists are pin- Tning their hopes for privacy on decentral- ised networks. Such networks allow data to be shared between several computers according to the peer-to-peer principle. Each user profile is encrypted only on the user’s own computer and the profiles of his or her friends are stored. This approach allows each individual to decide how much of her or his private information to disclose. The early version of this system was developed as “Safebook” by the researchers; improved versions of the system are now in use. Surfing the information superhighway safely and quickly

D6 | Anja Feldmann, Technische Universität Berlin | www.inet.tu-berlin.de Computer scientists are designing the internet of the future

Imagine the kind of chaos that would ensue hat is why Anja Feldmann, head of the on our motorways if drivers were unable to TIntelligent Networks and Management of see the length of their route or their destina- Distributed Systems department at the Tech- tion. This sort of confusion often reigns on nische Universität Berlin, is developing the in- the internet. Individual packets of informa- ternet of the future. The computer scientist’s information tion have no control over which road they research involves analysing how many people take along the information superhighway. access which sort of content and when, in This means that users in Hamburg might order to anticipate bottlenecks in the system. download data from Beijing that would have One of her ideas is to divide the internet into also been obtainable from somewhere near different areas, each of which would meet their own city. As millions of people surf different requirements in terms of security the World Wide Web, make telephone calls, and speed. Users would like to remain anony- and upload photos to social networks, the mous when surfing, for example, but precise internet becomes ever more congested. identification is necessary for online banking.

he system is being tested on the TU Tcampus in Berlin-Charlottenburg. There are 46 transmitters on almost all of the rooftops, creating the biggest experimental platform for transmission networks in the world. Feldmann’s research findings have already made the internet faster and safer. In 2011, she received the German Research Foundation’s Leibniz Prize and €2.5 million in prize money for her work in the field. The end of language barriers

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13312 weite 13271 wächst 13173 wiederaufbauD7 | Alexander Waibel, 13163 Karlsruhe warschau Institute 13101 of wohnung Technology 13062 webpräsenz 12969 walther 12956 westliche 12548 wurzelnisl.anthropomatik.kit.edu/english/index.php 12273 wirklichkeit 12188 willi 12125 | www.is.cs.cmu.eduweiler 12021 w andte 12007 wahr 11978 waffe 11916 willy 11846 wörter 11830 what 11547 witwe 11528 wovon 11472 wiederherstellung 11318 weiterentwicklung 11259 wissenschaftlich 11241 werkstatt 11094 wachsen 11051 wdr 10864 weiblichen 10841 westfälischen 10785 winkel 10747 woiwodschaft 10696 weiten 10683 werft 10682 welle 10581 worauf 10555 wk 10552 wand 10478 wahr- An electronic super-translator

In Alexander Waibel’s vision, international correlate with the parallel sentence in conferences in the future will look like this: another. The software does this very efficient- participants will each be speaking in their ly by simultaneously searching through the own language but will, nevertheless, be able internet, thereby utilising a virtually infinite to understand each other – without an number of texts. “After just three years of information interpreter. The simultaneous translation will using this method, our system was better be provided by language software that not than any that had been fed language rules only knows the meaning of words but also over a period of 20 years,” says Waibel. recognises contextual meaning and translates idioms from one language into several others. imultaneous translation of live speeches, Spresentations, and lectures is already aibel is a professor of computer science possible. Currently, the researchers are work- Wat the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology ing on a total of 15 languages. The European and at Carnegie Mellon University in Pitts- Parliament has also shown interest in the burgh, USA. He also heads the International program. In a demonstration of the transla- Center for Advanced Communication Tech- tion system at the Parliament, the software nologies (interACT). Together with his inter- was used to translate Waibel’s speech into ACT team – which includes scientists from Spanish while human translators translated Germany, the United States, Italy, Japan, and it into a further 23 languages. Waibel expects Hong Kong – he is working towards a world that machine translation of all 200 economi- without linguistic confusion, interpreters, or cally critical languages will be possible in 10 inadequate translations. Their focus is a years’ time. Thanks to language software, it programme that uses statistics rather than will then be possible for all people to read linguistic rules. The software uses correct the entire content of the internet. Waibel is translations to calculate the frequency with convinced that “language barriers will fall.” which words and phrases in one language How human are machines? Investigating and developing artificial intelligence across disciplines

Machines that are able to think, or even feel, For Helge Ritter, CITEC coordinator and head have always excited the imagination and of the neuroinformatics research group, it is are a fixture in most science fiction films. this interdisciplinary approach that particular- Global research on issues relating to artificial ly distinguishes CITEC. “This focus has enabled intelligence is similarly fascinating. One of the us to develop a strong position internationally information leading institutions in this area is the Center while also becoming one of the leading insti- of Excellence Cognitive Interaction Technology tutions working on improving the interface (CITEC), established at Bielefeld University between humans and technology,” says Ritter. as part of the Excellence Initiative in 2007. ne of CITEC’s core components is the cientists at CITEC focus on four research OGraduate School Cognitive Interaction Sareas which each examine key functions Technology, which prepares 50 research of cognitive interactive systems: motion intel- fellows for academic careers. The Center ligence; attentive systems; situated communi- also has a Virtual Faculty, consisting of cation; memory and learning. CITEC compris- renowned scientists from many differ- es around 40 research groups from the fields ent countries who hold research seminars, of computer science, biology, linguistics, workshops, and conferences in Bielefeld. mathematics, psychology, and sports science.

D8 | Helge Ritter, Bielefeld University | www.cit-ec.de Signposts throughout the brain Computer scientists are developing navigational software for neurosurgical procedures

Incurable symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, he software even analyses the nuclear extreme types of movement disorders, Tmagnetic resonance images. Gemmar’s headaches, and depression can all be eased studies show that evaluating image data by deep electrical brain stimulation. A brain automatically is more efficient than a doctor’s pacemaker is implanted into the chest of evaluation. “Our programme allows us to information the patient. From there, cables running capture the individual characteristics of a under the skin direct carefully controlled patient’s brain, which means we can assess electrical impulses through electrodes into the risks of different operations more diseased areas of the brain. This targeted accurately and suggest the best way to stimulation is said to enable affected neu- proceed through the brain,” explains the rons to regain their original functionality. computer scientist. Gemmar’s software is also very useful during the operation. Once the he success of the operation depends on surgeon has directed the tip of the electrode Tthe correct placement of the electrodes. to the approximate target area, the ideal final “We have developed computer-aided position must be identified. In order to do so, procedures to provide all the data required the activity of the surrounding nervous tissue before and during open-brain surgery,” says is directly recorded using specially developed Peter Gemmar from the Institute for Innova- measuring electrodes. The computer pro- tive Informatics Applications at Trier Univer- gramme evaluates the recorded signal sity of Applied Sciences. These procedures patterns more quickly than any scientist. allow for improved planning and safer Patients will soon be able to benefit from the execution of neurosurgical operations. software developed in Trier when it becomes part of an operation planning system.

D9 | Peter Gemmar, Trier University of Applied Sciences | www.hochschule-trier.de/index.php?id=cnm Traffic controllers in outer space prevent collisions

A driver steers a car around a bend, but a traffic jam has built up immediately ahead. Perhaps the driver reacts a little too slowly and crashes. In future, this situation might have a better outcome: satellites 22,000 kilometres overhead can track the position of the car, while a computer in the car com- pares the data with the course of the road and radar sensors register obstructions. At the same time, radio contact with nearby vehicles enables the exchange of information about routes and speed. In an emergency, electronic assistants brake automatically or execute an evasive manoeuvre, even before the driver recognises the danger.

D10 | Dirk Abel, RWTH Aachen University | www.galileoabove.de/en A satellite-based safety system for cars and trains

irk Abel firmly believes that “collisions can Dbe avoided using satellite technology and car-to-car communication”. The head of the Institute of Automatic Control at RWTH Aachen University is working with his staff to develop a information revolutionary vehicle concept. It is based on the Galileo satellite navigation system planned by the European Union. Abels aims to link location positioning information received from space to car steering and braking systems. In addition to intelligent vehicles, the Aachen team are also working on shunting robots that can move railway carriages on their own or apply brakes to trains.

alileo is expected to be operational in 2018, Gbut car and train manufacturers can already test their models under real-world conditions. Traffic situations are reconstructed on two road and rail track courses. Scientists have mounted the same satellite technology that will be used in space on poles surrounding these sites. It is even possible to simulate the movement of the satellites in orbit. Excellence in many dimensions

“Try to explain to an extraterrestrial what music is, using only words. You could explain that it consists of vibrations which are produced by strings, for example, and amplified by a resonating body, and that these vibrations are percei- ved by means of sensory organs. Yet what does that really say about music? This is how difficult it is to convey what Hirzebruch has done for mathematics.”

Don B. Zagier, Director of the Max Planck Institute for Mathematics in Bonn Internationality stimulates top-level mathematical research

The University of Bonn is one of the most n 2006, the Hausdorff Centre for Math- important centres of mathematical research Iematics was established as part of the and teaching. Its reputation is inextricably Excellence Initiative. It operates under the linked with the work of Friedrich Hirzebruch joint auspices of four of the university’s math- (1927–2012). Considered to be one of the most ematical institutes, the MPIM, and the Insti- information important German mathematicians of the tute for Economics and Social Sciences. The 20th century, Hirzebruch worked on algebraic Centre also includes two graduate schools: the geometry, topology, number theory, and Bonn International Graduate School in Math- singularity theory. His signature theorem, ematics and the International Max Planck the Riemann-Roch-Hirzebruch theorem, Research School for Moduli Spaces (IMPRS). established his international reputation. Born in 1927, Hirzebruch received numerous prestigious awards and prizes for his contri- irzebruch strongly promoted the in- butions to mathematics, and gave lectures Hternational networking of German and provide support to junior researchers mathematics after the Second World War. In he had supervised until his death in 2012. 1957, he founded the international “Math- ematics Workshop” (Mathematische Arbeits- tagung). Hirzebruch set up a collaborative research centre for theoretical mathemat- ics in 1969, which in 1980 developed into the Max Planck Institute for Mathematics (MPIM), headed by Hirzebruch until 1995.

D11 | Friedrich Hirzebruch, University of Bonn | www.mpim-bonn.mpg.de Bundled information

At the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in data transmission in 2011. Just one year (KIT), there was a flash of light. It lasted later, the researchers at KIT have encoded only a second, but it was a flash of lightning 32 terabits per second on a laser beam and for science: in this second, 26 terabits of have sent them across 220 kilometres. data, equivalent to 700 DVDs, were en- coded onto a single laser and transmitted. n order to achieve what was deemed a Ifantasy only a few years ago, the scientists dvances in information and communica- employed the orthogonal frequency division Ations technology happen very fast, but multiplexing (OFDM) scheme. OFDM is new keeping pace with rapidly growing volumes of to optical communications but it has long data traffic remains a challenge. But German been used in mobile communications. The scientists are proving that it doesn’t have to challenge when using it in optical communi- be this way. New options are emerging as a cations is the leap in speed. Optical signals result of the most recent KIT experiment and typically operate at a speed 1,000 times faster other innovations in high-speed communi- than mobile communication channels and cations, according to Jürg Leuthold, head thus the processing has to be sped up ac- of the Institute of Photonics and Quantum cordingly. To execute the experiment, the KIT Electronics and the Institute of Microstruc- team has been supported by companies and ture Technology at KIT. The KIT researchers scientists from all over Europe. The record encoded data on a single laser beam and is particularly exciting for virtual reality ap- transmitted them over a distance of 50 plications, cloud computing, and future 3-D kilometres. After reaching its destination, the television – and any area which requires huge data was decoded. This was a world record bandwidths for optical transmission channels.

D12 | Jürg Leuthold, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | www.imt.kit.edu | www.ipq.kit.edu Large amounts of data are transmitted using laser technology information information Responsibility Our world has undergone profound changes. can enable growing cities to recycle wastewa- All around the globe, goods are being traded ter and generate energy from sewage sludge. on a tremendous scale, high-tech factories Legal specialists from Berlin are advising are springing up in former developing colleagues in Vietnam on how to transition countries, and the living standards in successfully to a modern constitutional state. responsibility previously poor parts of the world are approaching those of industrialised nations. Despite all the opportunities, many people As welcome as this process may be for many are reacting with uncertainty to the new people, it also demonstrates how destructive challenges. Sociologists Ortwin Renn and the effects of unbridled growth can be on the Ulrich Beck analyse how societal risks are climate, soil, rivers, and oceans. perceived, exploring whether these risks can be measured and assessed. The researchers German researchers are working with are looking for strategies to overcome fear of partners from all over the world to combine progress and the ‘tyranny of experts’. Their the benefits of globalisation with sustainable aim is to find a balance between security and development. Physicists from Kassel are speculation, competition and cooperation. working with British companies to build tidal Research must take on this responsibility, for power plants that will convert natural energy the sake of both the environment and the from tidal currents into electricity. Wastewa- growing global population. ter technicians from the Technische Universi- tät Darmstadt are constructing factories that When microbes hit the gas

E1 | Alfred Pühler, Bielefeld University | www.cebitec.uni-bielefeld.de Microorganisms produce methane for power generation

Professor Alfred Pühler sits in his laboratory essentially capture the genetic material at Bielefeld University. Glancing into his light of the entire microbe community in one microscope, the microbiologist assesses his go. This approach is called metagenomic latest catch: microorganisms from a nearby analysis. The complete DNA is then iso- biogas plant. There, the tiny creatures lated and split into tiny fragments, each responsibility ferment maize plants, releasing methane. of which, in the final stage, is dissected This gas is used for power and heat generati- into its basic components and analysed or on in a combined heat and power plant “sequenced”. Pühler stresses that, “the real attached to the biogas facility. Pühler wants work lies in the evaluation of huge amounts to know which microbes contribute the most of data by experienced bioinformaticians.” to the fermentation process: “If we know who the key players are, then we can inoculate he team discovered that the most impor- biogas plants with them in a targeted manner Ttant methane producer is a microbe of the in the future, thus optimising power plant genus Methanoculleus. The expertise required operations”. for its identification and the necessary equipment were provided by the Center for inding these players is no simple task. Biotechnology (CeBiTec) at Bielefeld Univer- FA biogas plant contains several hundred sity. An international graduate programme different microorganisms. Only a portion of at CeBiTec also gives junior researchers the these microorganisms is involved in methane opportunity to carry out genetic analyses of production, to a greater or lesser extent. genomes and metagenomes – not only of In order to track down the most important microorganisms, but also of all other liv- gas producers, the Bielefeld biologists first ing things, such as plants and animals. Oceans of energy Generating clean energy off the coast of Northern Ireland

Hot water rises in an electric kettle because eaFlow, a German-British research its density is lower. The world’s oceans Sproject, is led by Jochen Bard, head of the are also in a state of constant movement. Institute for Ocean Energy at the Institute of This is due to differences in temperature, Wind Energy and Energy Systems Technology differing salt content, and high and low (IWES) at the University of Kassel. It was responsibility tides. Why shouldn’t the ocean’s kinetic sponsored by the European Commission, the energy be used to generate electricity? Federal Ministry for the Environment, and the British Department for Trade and Industry. he first ocean current turbine was put into Bard has been working on Project SeaGen, the Tuse for research purposes in the Irish Sea successor to SeaFlow, since 2005. The aim is in 2003. It works like a wind turbine, only the to produce commercially viable plants. The 16-metre rotor blades are underwater. In current research plant alone generates contrast to wind turbines, energy supply can approximately 1.2 megawatts of electricity for be easily predicted. We know what the tidal 1,500 households. In Europe 12,500 mega- currents are, but it is difficult to predict how watts of electricity are generated by ocean much wind there will be at a given time. turbines each year. Ocean current turbines are more efficient than wind or solar power. In full-scale production, power costs are estimated to be 5 to 10 cents per kilowatt hour.

E2 |Jochen Bard, University of Kassel | www.iset.uni-kassel.de www.iwes.fraunhofer.de/de/projekte/projekte01.html The risk assessor

How safe is safe enough? Even individuals prejudiced. How can they engage, neverthe- find it difficult to answer this question in less, in a constructive discussion about risk? relation to their average day. How much more complicated is it, then, for a society as n important question, as risks lurk every- a whole to come to an agreement on which Awhere: in spoilt food, chemicals, natural natural, technical, or financial risks it is disasters, terrorism, and gene technology. willing to accept? Ortwin Renn, professor of Renn is trying to describe the diverse problems technological and environmental sociology and phenomena in a way that is compre- at the University of Stuttgart, is developing hensible to everyone. On the one hand, he is tools to aid in the assessment of such risks. employing a classic method: the probability His main aim is to create “a balance bet- of an incident and the extent of the dam- ween risks, benefits, and uncertainties”. age caused by that incident are multiplied in order to calculate precautionary limits for he biggest problem lies in the fact that nei- acceptable risk. At the same time, he is taking Tther experts nor lay people make rational account of the potential of delayed and long- judgements. A person with arachnophobia, for term effects, the linking of a number of causes, example, approaches the eight-legged crea- the faster spreading of effects in a globalised tures in a different way than would an interest- world, and the impact of threats on the psyche ed zoologist. An engineer working in a nuclear and on the social and cultural environment of plant feels less threatened by the possibility of humans. Independence and clear analysis are a major nuclear incident than do large sectors fundamental to the evaluation of problems. of the population. While one side confidently “Risk policy,” according to Renn, “must protect claims that everything is under control, the itself from the dictatorship of experts as well other side’s rejection is based on emotion as from populism, and has to balance the and speculation. Ultimately, both groups are responsibility of the citizen and the state.” Social behaviour toward risk and decision-making responsibility

E3 | Ortwin Renn, University of Stuttgart | www.uni-stuttgart.de/soz/tu The grande dame of German sociology

Renate Mayntz moulded half a century of the Max Planck Institute for the Study of sociological research. Her research areas Societies, and from then on concentrated her became important points of reference, be it research on globalisation and governance macro theory, the analysis of political control issues. Mayntz has had emeritus status since mechanisms, comparative policy research, 1997 and has been working all the while on the organisational and administrative the major problems of our time. In 2009, she sciences, or the sociology of technology. created a network of international academ- Mayntz advised politicians long before it was ics in order to research the regulation of fashionable to be a political advisor, and she financial markets. At the time she was part set out clear rules: “One should present one’s of a group that studied the structures of il- knowledge, and politicians must decide.” legal markets. How do criminal organisations Her understatement of her own influence arrange the sale of counterfeit goods or the reveals itself here; in practice, her advisory illegal disposal of toxic waste? What is the capacity encompassed more than just connection to the legal economy? Answers presenting academically sound arguments. to these and other questions are found once the relevant projects are complete. ayntz worked in the Study Commission Mfor Public Service Law Reform, belonged an there be any question of the produc- to the German Education Council, and was C tivity of our emeritus professors? Long involved in the sensitive task of transform- may they remain with us! In 2010, Mayntz ing the GDR Academy of Sciences into the received the North Rhine-Westphalia Inno- Berlin-Brandenburg Academy. She founded vation Award for her life’s work.

E4 | Renate Mayntz, University of Cologne and Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies | www.mpifg.de Outstanding analyses at the Max Planck Institute for the Study of Societies responsibility Bringing German law to Vietnam

E5 | Jürgen Keßler | HTW Berlin | www.fesvietnam.org Legal knowledge transfer for the purpose of reforming the legal system

Core portions of several foreign legal sys- formulation of new corporate and insolvency tems – including those of China, Turkey, and laws that will enable economic cooperation. Hungary – have been influenced by or based As part of this exchange the scholars have on German law. One such process of adop- organised a number of workshops in which tion has been taking place in Vietnam since judges, administrators, and legal scholars responsibility 2010, with academic assistance from German from Germany present to professors, judges, universities, the Friedrich Ebert Foundation and ministry employees from Vietnam. The and the German Academic Exchange Service. German experts also give lectures to students; several early-career researchers receive schol- erman experts facilitate knowledge arships and can enrol at German universities. Gtransfer in the areas of contract, civil, and labour law, intellectual property, as well as hat is the reason for this change? Under administrative and constitutional law. One Wthe leadership of the Communist Party aspect of their work is the establishment of the country wants to participate in globalisa- a Centre for German and European Law at tion. This also benefits Germany. “Economic Hanoi University. Jürgen Keßler, professor cooperation is strengthened through legal for European and international corporate harmonisation,” says Keßler. These ef- law at the HTW Berlin – University of Ap- forts, part of the German/Vietnamese legal plied Sciences, is coordinating the exchange. dialogue, are connected to the hope that “We cooperate closely with the government Vietnam develops into a constitutional state. and universities in Vietnam,” he explains. “The early experiences are very encourag- At the moment the focus is on standards ing, because Vietnam is interested in taking pertaining to constitutional reform and the advantage of learnings from Germany.” City car in the fast lane

Bigger, heavier, faster. For decades, the- his range is generally sufficient for normal se were the keywords for the automotive Tdriving as the vast majority of car trips are industry. It is now clear, however, that usually shorter than ten kilometres. “Our goal due to the world’s limited resources we is to develop a reliable and safe vehicle for city are driving ourselves into a dead end. use,” states Kampker, the holder of Aachen’s At the instigation of the federal govern- Chair of Production Management. In order ment, 2020 should see one million for the StreetScooter to maintain its low price emission-free cars on Germany’s roads. tag, every component’s production costs are factored into the design from the very o far, the high price of these cars has beginning. In addition, the development won’t Sslowed the advent of eco-friendly mobility. take place in a specific physical location but RWTH Aachen University, along with 80 instead will all happen in virtual space. All medium-sized companies, has formed a team, project-related data is collected and managed led by Professor Achim Kampker, to develop on a central online platform. The city cars are the StreetScooter electric vehicle. Excluding built from multiple combinable modules, batteries, the car should cost about 5,000 something which also saves on costs. euros. The first target market will be rental car fleets, taxi companies, and distribution firms – who can choose from vehicles with one, two, or three batteries, each with a range of 45 kilometres. Engineers develop an affordable and environmentally friendly electric car responsibility

E6 | Achim Kampker, RWTH Aachen University | www.rwth-aachen.de/go/id/bhly On the risk of success

E7 | Ulrich Beck, Ludwig-Maximilians-University Munich | www.ulrichbeck.net-build.net The discourse on the consequences of globalisation

We’ve faced a major nuclear accident, the the growth and prosperity of the industrial global financial crisis, and terror attacks, society are based is feeding into an increasing hurricanes, and tsunamis. Ulrich Beck’s theory fear of societal collapse. Whereas experiments on the “world risk society” has been proven in the past would have been conducted in a correct by recent disasters: no one thought lab or in restricted field scenarios, nowadays responsibility them possible, and they are beyond anything the whole world seems to serve as the test we ever expected, rendering all preventative bed for experimentation. Whether nuclear strategies and recovery mechanisms obsolete. plants, genetically modified organisms, They have shaken modern society to the core, nanotechnology – if any of these experi- and they signal the end of an era when ments went wrong, the consequences would society assumed that comprehensive have a global impact, would be irreversible, insurance was enough to keep us safe. and would impact future generations.

or decades now, Beck, professor of sociol- he distinctive traits of this “second moder- Fogy at Ludwig-Maximilians-University in Tnity”, as Beck calls the current era of glo- Munich, has influenced sociology research balisation, are the lack of limitations in terms with his consideration of the consequences of of risk and the search by the individual for globalisation and technological progress. His lost security. Beck recommends turning our books on the risk society have been translated backs on the “mathematical morality” of ex- into 35 languages, and the term has become pert opinions, which seek to identify the level a catchphrase in Germany and many other of a certain risk by calculating the probability countries. It is specifically as a consequence of of its occurrence. Instead, we should be using its successes, according to Beck, that modern man’s fear of collapse in a positive way: as an society faces the threat of failure. The same opportunity for international cooperation and technological advancement upon which a “cosmopolitan turn” in the social sciences. Water: Elixir of life for millions

E8 | Peter Cornel, Technische Universität Darmstadt semizentral.de/en | www.iwar.bauing.tu-darmstadt.de/abwasser Engineers develop self-sufficient waste infrastructure for megacities

With a population of seven million, Hanoi infrastructure for water supply, sanitation, has no sewage treatment plant. Wastewater and waste. This creates synergistic effects is collected in septic tanks under buildings, that save money and increase the system’s which are supposed to be emptied when full. efficiency. Enclosed buildings that are the But because many people in Hanoi cannot size of a parking garage and located within responsibility afford to do this, most septic tanks run over the city, are a venue for wastewater treat- uncontrollably. The untreated wastewater ment, water treatment, waste treatment, and flows into the rivers and canals, polluting the energy production. Short distances minimise earth and threatening the city’s water supply. the transportation and energy costs – and the semi-centralised supply and waste dis- imilar problems exist in many of the posal centre is an integral part of the city. Sworld’s megacities. In emerging and developing countries, cities are growing faster t IWAR, interdisciplinary research teams than their infrastructure systems. Large, Aof wastewater and process engineers, centralised conventional solutions take far environmental scientists, urban planners, and too long to implement, while decentralised surveyors are currently conducting research solutions are expensive and difficult to moni- focusing on Vietnam and China. Darmstadt tor. The solution lies in a semi-centralised has worked with the Hanoi University of approach: compact, professionally operated Civil Engineering to develop a concept for facilities that handle parts of the city. At improving Hanoi’s environmental conditions. the Institute for Sewage Technology (IWAR) German know-how is also needed in the at Technische Universität Darmstadt, Peter Chinese port city of Qingdao, which by 2014 Cornel has been developing the idea of sys- will be the site of the first semi-centralised tems connecting 20,000 to 50,000 inhabit- water supply and waste disposal centre. ants, which takes a holistic view of critical Economics “It’s the economy, stupid.” The basic message such as stability, progress, growth, and em- of this catchphrase from the 1992 Bill Clin- ployment? How much regulation do markets ton campaign has lost none of its relevance need? How should entrepreneurs invest and today. If the economy is functioning and strategize to obtain competitive advantage, economics growing, the people will be doing well − poli- revenues, and longevity? How can consumers ticians and policymakers know this. Economic be protected against manipulation? These prosperity is a prerequisite for achieving questions must often take into account the many other societal goals. highly complex behaviours that shape human interactions. Science investigates highly com- Researchers in Germany are working to plex human behaviours to find the answers. maintain and improve of our living stan- dards and environments. Engineers are New approaches to economics would like researching intelligent power grids, logistics to understand buyers and sellers, and the experts are optimising the flow of goods, effects of constraints and incentives, as and chemists are developing biodegrada- well as be able to explain and predict how ble plastics, amid many other advances. people will act. In macroeconomics, the current focus is on analysing and simulat- The economic sciences are called on to sup- ing market activity; in microeconomics, port decisions made by governments, organi- the trend is to work with findings from sations, and businesses. To be able to do this, psychology. Crises such as insolvencies, they need to understand how market players state bankruptcies, and collapsing finan- behave as they do and what influences them. cial markets bring problem areas to the What type of framework should the state put fore. Economic research is in high demand in place in order to attain economic goals among policymakers and managers alike. People at the centre

Why do readers pay for the “pay what you uch propositions form the basis for want” newspapers found in unattended Sbehavioural economics, which draws on displays at underground stations? Why do findings from psychology and neuroscience in we split up prize money according to the order to better understand how perceptions principle of “live and let live” and not accord- and decisions are formed, and which incen- ing to might and right? To put it simply, tives underpin particular decisions. Ockenfels people behave like social beings. Contrary also observed the practical applications of to belief, they do not act exclusively in their economic policy from this perspective, such as own economic interests, only pursuing online auctions, regulation of the electricity clear goals with all the information at hand market, and the minimum wage hypothesis and motivated entirely by self-interest. for solving unemployment. His work helps build bridges between abstract, sterile theory ehavioural economics examines the and the highly complex reality of the markets. Blimits of our rationality. Axel Ockenfels is The bounded rationality of our behaviour can Germany’s most prominent and internation- be explained, predicted, and influenced. He ally renowned scholar in this field and is also was awarded the prestigious Leibniz Prize by an advocate of a science that investigates the German Research Foundation in 2005. real economic behaviour. His work calls into question the theory of the pursuit of pure self-interest and provides experimental proof of socially responsible behaviour, such as the phenomenon of economic fairness.

F1 | Axel Ockenfels, University of Cologne | ockenfels.uni-koeln.de Axel Ockenfels represents modern economics economics Yoghurt pots on the compost heap Economical production of biodegradable plastics

Plastics are everywhere: in mobile phones, The material can be equipped with specific in toys, in cars, and in nearly all forms of properties, such as elasticity and transpar- packaging. They are easy to process and incre- ency. It is cost-effective to produce and can

dibly durable, but therein lies the problem: compete with conventional plastics in terms economics sooner or later, plastics end up in the rubbish of quality. Best of all, PHB is catalytically bin. About one tenth of all plastic refuse produced from carbon monoxide and pro- ultimately finds its way into the ocean. The pylene oxide. Carbon monoxide can easily be volume of waste now amounts to millions of synthesized out of water and carbon, and the tons and is growing rapidly. Moreover, large process requires only half as much petro- amounts of petroleum are used to manufac- leum as the production of polypropylene. ture these products. It’s been clear for a long time already that we cannot go on like this! ith this widely applicable and sustain- Wable technology, the Munich-based t Technische Universität München, Bern- research team has become a world leader in Ahard Rieger and his team together with its field. In 2006, in recognition of his work, an industry partner worked out an ingenious Rieger and his partner Gerrit Luinstra, from solution: they developed a synthesis for the the chemical company BASF, shared the polymer PHB, which decomposes within a German Philip Morris Foundation’s research few weeks of being put on the compost heap. prize.

F2 | Bernhard Rieger, Technische Universität München | www.professoren.tum.de/de/rieger-bernhard/ Decoding, expanding, and utilising genetic diversity

F3 | Chris-Carolin Schön, Technische Universität München | www.synbreed.tum.de Collaborative research into animal and plant breeding

For centuries, animal and plant breeding ties that contribute to the health, fertility, has been the key to producing healthy food and productivity of these species. This is in adequate quantities. Breeding methods also the key problem: complex markers such

play a prominent role in today’s agriculture. as maize yield or milk production in cows economics Highly productive plant varieties can help depend on a mix of numerous genetic factors. produce larger increases in yield than modern farming technologies or the increased use of chön exemplifies: “This is why it’s no fertilisers. “If we want to get even more out Slonger enough to look for individual of breeding, we need to pool expertise from genes. Nowadays, we are simultaneously all the different fields within the life sciences,” examining thousands of genetic factors explains Chris-Carolin Schön, agricultural sci- within one genome and subsequently entist at the Technische Universität München. determining which combination exerts the greatest influence on complex traits such as he research network SYNBREED (Syner- egg production in chickens.” Advancements Tgistic Plant and Animal Breeding) brings in innovative genome research benefit all together plant and animal breeders with members of the network, which includes the molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, Technische Universität München, Universität and medical scientists. The interdisciplin- Göttingen, University of Hohenheim, and ary make-up of the group is intended to Kiel University as well as four non-univer- identify synergies and help generate new sity research institutions and two partners ideas and approaches. It focuses on utilising from industry. Part of the programme the natural diversity of economically signifi- is a structured doctoral training course, cant species including maize, chicken, and which includes a graduate programme, cattle – foodstuffs that have great economic summer schools, and research grants. importance. Of particular interest are proper- The science of advertising

During blind taste tests, consumers are it influences target customers. Consumer unable to distinguish premium beer brands behaviour may not be especially rational, from other brands, and they express diffe- but it obeys certain “psycho-logical” prin- rent taste preferences than when they are ciples. These principles have been empirically able to see the labels. Beck’s has mano- researched using interdisciplinary theories. euvred itself into a competitive spot with a green sailing ship and Flensburger with the he Institute for Consumer Research and distinctive “pop” that comes with opening its TBehavioral Science (IKV) that Kroeber-Riel swing-top bottle. Shoppers pay significantly founded has continued to develop the theory more for brand names than for unknown of consumer behaviour since 1969. Today, it products of equal quality. These and innu- comprises fifteen departments and hundreds merable other examples of the effects of of scientists. Using the group’s empirical marketing make it clear that the consumer is methodology, companies can adapt their anything but a rational homo economicus. products to meet real yet subjective needs instead of leaving product design solely to the tarting in 1970, Saarbrücken-based profes- engineers. It helps ensure that the tremen- Ssor Werner Kroeber-Riel took the outdat- dous investments made in advertising and ed, descriptive marketing teaching methods branding are used effectively to influence of the time and made them into a modern consumers in a targeted way. Their findings science. He was the first to replace assump- also help competition law and consumer tions with empirical research, claiming that protection regulations in identifying ille- successful marketing needed to understand gal and ethically questionable methods of the psychology of human behaviour and how manipulation in order to protect consumers.

F4 | Werner Kroeber-Riel, Saarland University | www.ikv.uni-saarland.de Marketing + psychology = consumer research economics The Myth of Homo Economicus

F5 | Reinhard Selten, Freie Universität Berlin, Bielefeld University, University of Bonn www.bonneconlab.uni-bonn.de/team/selten.reinhard Experimental economics is causing a paradigm shift

He thinks at lightning speed, sums up all the monetary incentives. The empirical data possibilities without overlooking a single one, collected provide a comprehensive behav- and invariably selects the very best option. ioural analysis of economic activity. This

The notion of the rationally acting individual, methodology has long been standard within economics homo economicus, is one of the great modern economic research. The institute also works myths. „Experimental economics has clearly closely with the university’s Department demonstrated that this model is completely of Economics and is involved in its bach- unrealistic,“ states Reinhard Selten. Selten, elor’s, master’s and doctoral programmes. an economics professor, is considered a pioneer of experimental economics. In 1994, o date, Selten has issued numerous publi- he was recognised for his contributions Tcations and supervised young researchers; to game theory when he became the first he leads several projects at the BonnEconLab German to win the Nobel Prize in Economics. as well as the “Rationality in the Light of Experimental Economics” work group at the elten taught in Berkeley, Berlin, and North Rhine-Westphalian Academy of Scienc- SBielefeld before moving to Bonn in 1984, es and Arts. Through this long-term project, where he founded the BonnEconLab, Europe’s which has been running since 2006, research- first laboratory for experimental economics. ers are developing an experimentally based As part of this research discipline, special theory of economic behaviour. Their ambi- experimental sessions are conducted in which tious goal is, in Selten’s words, “to determine subjects make real decisions linked to actual how economic decisions are actually made.” Controlled emotions

F6 | Dietrich Dörner, University of Bamberg www.uni-bamberg.de/psychologie/theoretische-psychologie/forschung/downloads www.uni-bamberg.de/psychologie/theoretische-psychologie/ Complex problem-solving is a rare, invaluable, and teachable skill

Peter Löscher, CEO of Siemens, earns an The majority of test subjects failed the task, as annual salary of around €9m. It is not unu- solving one problem resulted in the creation sual for directors of large companies to earn of another, or short term success subsequently

top-level salaries, given their unique ability turned into disaster in the long term. Most economics to consistently make complex decisions and people were able to solve a particular problem, implement them successfully. Complexity but could not assess the impact of their deci- means variety (multiple factors at play) plus sions on the complex web of associated issues dynamism (constantly changing variables). or how these decisions would play out further Running a company is a highly complex task. down the line. Nevertheless, managers proved It frequently involves making momentous to be better decision-makers than students. decisions in difficult situations that will affect both short- and long-term goals – some of örner has studied the psychology of which may even conflict – and whose long- Dmanaging complexity, and has pinpointed term repercussions or knock-on effects are and made us aware of our alarming deficien- hard to predict. Few individuals possess cies in this area. On the basis of his research the skills to be a successful manager, and findings, he has formulated psychological so those who do are highly compensated. explanations and developed methods in accordance with the saying “forewarned is xperiments carried out by psychologist and forearmed” that aid in teaching the skills Ecognitive scientist Dietrich Dörner demon- necessary for complex decision-making. strate how even competent and motivated de- Dörner’s findings have enormous potential cision-makers have difficulty dealing with com- applications, and his influence extends far plexity. In one experiment, participants were beyond the field of psychology. In 1986, the told to take on the role of mayor and solve var- German Research Foundation awarded him ious problems in the fictional town of Lohhau- the prestigious Leibniz Prize for his work. sen using all available means and resources. Everything is relative

People are constantly making comparisons. n particular, Mussweiler’s analysis of the But why? With what? How? And above all, I“anchoring effect” has received wide- how does making comparisons influence spread attention. This phenomenon describes our decisions? Internationally renowned how people make use of reference points social psychologist Thomas Mussweiler is – so-called “anchors” – when making assess- seeking answers to these questions. With ments, and how these anchors influence the aid of experimental studies, he has their judgment. Mussweiler has conducted designed a comprehensive model to ex- empirical research into the anchoring effect plain comparison processes. His team also as the basis for economic decisions, and it includes neuroscientists and economists. has become clear how this effect influences the outcomes of negotiations. The opening ussweiler says: “We make comparisons offer serves as the anchor. The higher this Mbecause we need to make efficient offer is, the higher the price paid will be. use of our limited cognitive resources”. If Furthermore, he was able to demonstrate we were to consider all relevant informa- that completely irrelevant reference points tion when making a judgment, we would influence a decision – even one made by be hopelessly overwhelmed. So we use an expert. When buying shares, profes- heuristics, which are techniques for sim- sional investors are guided as much by the plification. These include rules of thumb, anchoring effect as are private investors. prejudices, stereotypes, and comparisons.

F7 | Thomas Mussweiler, University of Cologne | social-cognition.uni-koeln.de Social psychologists investigate comparison processes economics The Biology of Success

F8 | Felix von Cube, Heidelberg University | www.von-cube.de Felix von Cube’s theory of „passion for performance“

How do people learn? What makes them want according to von Cube, “kicks in when flow to work? What is the secret of success? The is experienced, and social recognition and educationalist Felix von Cube has answered interpersonal bonding occur.” Von Cube is

these questions from a logical and empirical referring here to the work of psychologist economics standpoint by incorporating findings from Mihály Csíkszentmihályi, who was the first cybernetics and behavioural biology into to describe the special form of experience pedagogy. Today his theories extend beyond known as flow: People experiencing flow work the traditional academic environment and are effortlessly, creatively, without stress, and influencing management training for leaders. unfettered by their own and others’ expec- tations of success. According to von Cube, on Cube, born in 1927 and Professor of flow is activated by our curiosity instinct and VDidactics at the universities of Berlin, functions as a “safety mechanism”. It prompts Bonn, and Heidelberg, developed his “cyber- people to make the unknown familiar, and netic info-theoretical didactics” in the 1970s. to transform uncertainty into certainty. This approach views education and learning as a schematically modelled process. Within n other words, if a company wants to this process, information, educators, and Imotivate its employees to perform at a learners function as part of a closed loop sys- high level, it must ensure that its employ- tem that can be controlled by certain levers. ees can follow their instincts while work- Von Cube established his “biology of suc- ing. This means providing employees with cess” theory, based on this idea of a system new problems to solve, making sure they of pedagogical rules. It holds that humans experience feelings of belonging and be- are compulsive beings, and can be spurred ing valued while participating in group to exceptional performance by internal and projects, and recognising accomplishments external stimuli. “Passion for performance,” through promotions, bonuses, and praise. Simulating the future Innovative technologies for virtual reality

How should a doctor decide where to place ermany has become a leader in simu- electrodes to restore muscle function in a Glation technologies research. At the paraplegic? Trial and error? It’s the oldest forefront of this research is the University of

method for finding the best solution to a Stuttgart’s Cluster of Excellence “Simulation economics problem. In the case of complex and deli- Technology” (SimTech) with the affiliated cate systems, trial and error is ruled out as Graduate School. SimTech has been funded by it may take too long and cause damage. the German Research Foundation since 2007. The 85 projects currently under investigation imulation, however, has made vir- cover a wide range of topics. For example, Stual testing a possibility. Systems are one SimTech research group studies the reproduced as computer models and the simulation of skeletal muscles and parts of effects of the measures being considered the human musculoskeletal system. Special are calculated mathematically. Using the simulation models enable researchers to virtual model, multiple experiments can examine how muscles respond to external be rapidly conducted, all without affecting stimuli. The results indicate where electrodes the real system. Simulations have become must be placed in order to reactivate dam- indispensable in almost all areas of life and aged muscles using electrical stimulation. In research, including in the development other projects, computer modelling is used to of new medicines, production planning, design virtual prototypes, trial the construc- weather forecasting, and traffic regulation. tion of factories, and analyse the effects of gases that are harmful to the environment.

F9 | Research Centre for Simulation Technology (SimTech), University of Stuttgart www.simtech.uni-stuttgart.de Automated freight crates

Warehouse operatives of the future will no leading-edge cluster by the Federal Ministry of longer be required to haul crates. Instead, they Education and Research in 2010. “For logistics will monitor software that controls automated to be a hot research topic is really something transportation vehicles. In Dortmund, work has new,” says ten Hompel. And it is well overdue, already begun on turning this vision of the as climate change and the increasing shortage future into reality with the largest-ever trial of natural resources have long demanded a utilising artificial intelligence in logistics. rethink of processes and systems in the sector. Driverless shuttles transport goods to pre- At the same time, logistical requirements are specified places within the research hall. rapidly growing as a result of globalisation. The objective of the Cluster is to develop he shuttles move directly to their destina- innovative products and patents and ensure Ttions without following a fixed route, which they are ready to be brought to market. This means they cut down on the distance they calls for the combined skills of around 120 cover and save time. “Our aim is to organise lo- companies. Dozens of collaborative projects gistical processes and systems so they use only have been initiated with industry partners and 75 per cent of current resources,” says Michael with the Fraunhofer Institute. In addition to ten Hompel. The 53-year-old professor holds the automated shuttles, a number of innova- the chair of Materials Handling and Warehous- tions have emerged as a result of the joint ing at TU Dortmund University and heads both projects, including smart crates that move the Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and autonomously throughout the warehouse. In Logistics and the EffizienzCluster LogistikRuhr. 2013, the logistics campus was officially opened in Dortmund. It offers new professorships he EffizienzCluster LogistikRuhr is made and posts for scientists and scholars and is Tup of organisations and institutions from expected to be extended in the coming years. science and industry and was selected as a Artificial intelligence for transporting goods economics

F10 | Michael ten Hompel, TU Dortmund University and partner networks www.logistikruhr.de | www.flw.mb.tu-dortmund.de | www.iml.fraunhofer.de Society „Civilization is in the process of being Through interdisciplinary cooperation, formed,“ wrote the renowned sociologist historians, sociologists, anthropologists, Norbert Elias. The German-Jewish scho- archaeologists, and philosophers are lar studied how societies have changed in researching language as the driving force society Western Europe since the Middle Ages – and of culture; defining architecture as a stone- thus also how the personality of the indivi- based metaphor for a culture’s mentality; dual has changed as well. His approach is identifying cultural and historical influen- very timely. Anyone who wants to under- ces from Asia; and answering the question stand what motivates people must analyse of how knowledge is actually created, i.e. how they live together. If you want to help what engages a society’s curiosity and thus shape the future of civilization, you should defines our collective consciousness. know where our cultures have come from. Contemporary issues are also in focus. How That’s why researchers in Berlin, Bielefeld, do we respond to discrimination against wo- Essen, Heidelberg, and Frankfurt are as- men, unregulated financial markets, and the king what rules and values are followed by crisis of confidence in politics? Renowned pro- people in different societies. With their many fessors are designing models for more equal historical upheavals, the Germans offer a rich opportunities, new forms of democratic parti- source of research material – whether we cipation, and a more equitable coexistence. study the sensitive souls of the romantic era, the supporters of a murderous Nazi state, or the outraged Wutbürger demanding more democracy. Tradition and modernity in the “Frankfurt School”

Frankfurt is not just the centre of the Ger- Action”, Habermas examined, among other man financial sector. Founded in 1923, the topics, the role of language as a fundamental city’s Institute for Social Research (IfS) is resource for the advancement of a society. an internationally prominent institution of humanities research and teaching. Inspired he Institute has changed over time, but by Friedrich Hegel, Karl Marx, and Sigmund Thas remained true to the principle that Freud, IfS scholars including Max Horkhei- social science research must seek a critical mer, Theodor Adorno, Erich Fromm, and understanding of society and provide the Herbert Marcuse developed critical theory, a theoretical impetus for its emancipatory comprehensive analysis of bourgeois society development. This premise is also subscribed better known as the “Frankfurt School”, and to by social philosopher Professor Axel served as the driving force in the anti-autho- Honneth, the current head of the IfS: ritarian student movement of the 1960s. “Although our institution is still regarded as the centre of the Frankfurt School’s intellec- s a social philosopher, Jürgen Habermas tual legacy, the theoretical and empirical Ashaped the image of the “Frankfurt work here is now also greatly influenced by School”. However, he declined a request to other traditions and only makes occasional become the head of the IfS, opting instead reference to the founding authors.” According to teach sociology seminars. Although he to Honneth, “Social criticism must in its form retired in 1994, Habermas still comments on and function learn from the times and should current political and social issues. In his major not blindly adhere to its original form.” 1981 work, “The Theory of Communicative Critical social analysis at the Institute for Social Research society

G1 | Jürgen Habermas, University of Frankfurt and Axel Honneth, Institute for Social Research at the University of Frankfurt | www.ifs.uni-frankfurt.de Why we know what we do How new scientific findings change society

It is said that we live in a knowledge-based eingart and his colleagues research the society. But who possesses all the knowledge? Wdevelopment of science since the And what consequences does this have for mid-20th Century. This involved the dissolv- us? Sociologist Peter Weingart is looking for ing of the boundaries between basic research society answers by analysing the current situation and applied industrial research. Such a policy with a critical eye. It was important to un- has strengthened scientific expertise and in derstand how certain knowledge is acquired turn led to the solution of complex problems. today because „a sharp wind of political and economic greed is blowing” through hese convergences are analysed on an academia. Weingart, born in 1941, was Tinterdisciplinary basis. Sociologists, responsible for fostering the field of research philosophers and historians research scientific into scientific development, in Germany. It changes, as well as their resulting ethical was his initiative that established Bielefeld challenges and social consequences. Peter University’s Institute of Science and Techno- Weingart’s work has profoundly influenced logy Studies (IWT), which he led from 1993 the sociology of science, and he remains until he was given emeritus status in 2009. active as a researcher to this day. Currently, he is mainly concerned with the interface between science, media, politics, and business.

G2 | Peter Weingart, Bielefeld University | www.uni-bielefeld.de/iwt/ Sharp edges

Even an informed layperson can recognise a rationalism. His embrace of geometric order building by Oskar Maria Ungers at a glance. made him a leading theorist of the so-called OMU, as he was known in professional circles, Second Modernism of the early 1990s. developed an austere use of form that stood out in any environment. This applies as much s a professor of architecture, he passed to his city centre Wallraff-Richartz Museum in Ahis knowledge on to several generations Cologne as to his highly visible Hamburger of students: at the Technische Universität Kunsthalle museum, and to his monumental Berlin, the Düsseldorf Art Academy, and gatehouse at the Frankfurt Messe as to his the Academies of Applied Arts in Vienna, apartment complex at Berlin’s Lützowplatz. Boston and Los Angeles. In the 1950s Ungers His designs are always governed by an started the development of the archive of elemental and classical use of form untouch- Architectural Sciences. The library contains, ed by contemporary trends. among other things, the first edition of “DE ARCHITECTURA LIBRI DECEM” (1495) – he architect drew on historical precedent. Vitruv’s foundational work for architectural THis work incorporated principles from theory of the modern era. Documents from antiquity and masters such as Andrea Palladio the State Bauhaus in Weimar (1919–1923) can and Karl Friedrick Schinkel. Ungers worked also be viewed here. All of this is to be found with squares, circles, cubes, and spheres – his in the Library cube of Ungers’ landmarked buildings are defined by transformations house in Cologne-Müngersdorf. Scientists and variations of these basic forms. Whereas from around the world use the archives for critics mock his “squareness”, his students research because to this day it’s not possible and followers speak of a new clarity, and to study architecture if one overlooks Ungers. they view Ungers as the founder of German Architecture of the Second Modern Era society

G3 | Oskar Maria Ungers, Technische Universität Berlin and Düsseldorf Art Academy www.ungersarchiv.de Stories become history

G4 | Norbert Elias, Bielefeld University and University of Frankfurt | www.norberteliasfoundation.nl www.uni-bielefeld.de/ZIF/Allgemeines/Personen/norbert_elias.html Civilisation studies traces humans through the ages

Norbert Elias was fond of sharing anecdotes he members of each generation must in in order to illustrate aspects of his work. One, Tturn master the challenge in self-regulat- in particular, told of a Byzantine princess in ing themselves for the authority of civilising the 13th century who shocked the Venetian standards to prevail. Everyone must repeat a society court by using a fork at the table. The assem- highly accelerated version of the civilising bled company was horrified. How could she process in adolescence. It is only then that he not want to eat God’s food with her hands? or she can contribute to society. Known for many years only to a small circle of col- lias was fascinated by such seminal leagues, Elias’s theory of civilisation is now Emoments. The sociologist analysed the taught and recognised worldwide as part of change of European society between 800 and civilisation studies. The author’s work gained 1900, which he described in his famous work late recognition, not only in the form of “On the Process of Civilisation.” In his honours such as the Adorno Prize, but also in figuration theory Elias contends that not very personal testimonies by colleagues, such every object is of equal importance for the as those at Bielefeld University who were theory of civilisation, yet no object is unim- inspired to dedicate an eloquent tribute to portant. In his mind, sociology and historio- him with the Bielefeld Begegnungen honour- graphy are intertwined. Seemingly peripheral ing the impact of his personal and theoretical changes such as those in eating habits, influence. One might take comfort in reading greater emotional self-regulation, a higher the last sentence of his key work as a hopeful shame threshold, or the development of prophecy: “Civilisation is not complete, but is feelings of embarrassment are evidence of still in the process of evolving.” this process. Conscience of the nation

»There is no right life in the wrong one.«

Theodor W. Adorno | Minima Moralia

G5 | Theodor W. Adorno, University of Frankfurt www.ifs.uni-frankfurt.de | www.hdg.de/lemo/html/biografien/AdornoTheodorW Adorno’s philosophy is still relevant today

It is his most famous saying: “There is no in 1931. Just two years later the Nazi regime right life in the wrong one.” Theodor W. stripped him of the right to teach because Adorno wrote these words as part of his of his Jewish roots, forcing him to emigrate.

Minima Moralia, written between 1944 In 1949 Adorno returned to Germany and society and 1947 while he was in exile in California. worked at the Frankfurt Institute for Social In no way did Adorno advocate accepting Research (IfS), which he headed from 1959 the world as it is; rather, he supported not until his death in 1969. Since 2002, IfS has losing our sense of what is right, even if a organized a series of annual Adorno Lectures. completely authentic life is impossible. o this day, the IfS is among Germany’s philosopher, musicologist, and compo- Tlegendary research institutions. The A ser, Adorno was one of the great scholars critical theory taught at the IfS, an analysis of the 20th century. The question of why the of capitalist society often referred to as the Germans could have capitulated so complete- “Frankfurt School”, inspired the 1968 student ly to anti-Semitism was a lifelong theme for movement and influenced a generation of this empirical social scientist. He stated that, intellectuals, including many of Adorno’s stu- “Writing a poem after Auschwitz is barbaric,” dents like Jürgen Habermas and Oskar Negt. provoking resistance from writers and literary “The almost impossible task which faces us,” scholars. Adorno’s intent, however, was not wrote Adorno in Minima Moralia, “is not to to ban all lyricism, but rather only that which let ourselves become dumbed down, neither promoted the obfuscation of real remem- because of the power that others hold over brance. Born in Frankfurt in 1903, Adorno us nor because of our own powerlessness.” became a lecturer at his home city’s university Sociology with a system

G6 | Niklas Luhmann, Bielefeld University | www.uni-bielefeld.de/soz/forschung/luhmann.html Researchers from around the world discuss the theories of Niklas Luhmann

Considered one of the greatest sociologists t is therefore fitting that people communi- of the 20th Century, Niklas Luhmann taught Icate in his name today: the “Niklas for 25 years at Bielefeld University. But you Luhmann Visiting Professorship “ was won’t find a monument to him on the campus. established in 2005. Internationally renowned society There is also no auditorium or lecture hall social theorists are invited to Bielefeld, usually bearing his name – not even a bust. „We in the summer term. They present papers, give have no hero cults here,“ says Markus Göbel, seminars, and discuss Luhmann’s theses. assistant in the dean‘s office of the Depart- Among the guest lecturers have been John W. ment of Sociology. Instead, the department Meyer of Stanford University, Nils Brunsson concentrates on the discipline itself through from Uppsala University, and Harrison White “substantive discussions on Luhmann’s work.“ and Saskia Sassen of Columbia University. The Bielefeld sociologists also administer the his is an attitude that the famous sociolo- legacy of the famous systems theorist. This Tgist certainly would have shared. Luh- includes the legendary box of index cards mann, who died in 1998, was considered a which was the source of Luhmann’s approxi- very objective person. He started as a profes- mately 60 books and 400 papers. A research sor in Bielefeld in 1968. It is here that he devel- project is underway to digitise this collection. oped his universal theory about how social The old master of systems theory remains a systems work. Luhmann understood society presence at the university – even without a not as a collection of people, but as a complex bust. His successors ensure that the Bielefeld process of communications. faculty remains one of the most important institutions for social science research and teaching in Germany. A just society

G7 | Jutta Allmendinger, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin| www.wzb.eu/de/personen/jutta-allmendinger Pioneer of gender equality and labour market research: The sociologist Jutta Allmendinger

Here’s what the future of the German labour llmendinger, President of the Social market looks like for Jutta Allmendinger: AScience Research Center Berlin (WZB) at least 30 per cent of the top positions in and Professor of Sociology of Education and

German companies are held by women, when Labour Market Studies at the Humboldt- society women do the same amount of work as men, Universität zu Berlin, is one of the pioneers they earn just as much as men, and the in- for equality in the German labour market. come splitting taxation policy, which reflects Allmendinger, born in 1956, studied sociology West German society of the fifties, has been in Mannheim and pursued her post-graduate abolished. Full-day schools and day nurseries work at Harvard. She first became known are so common that it’s easy for mothers to for coining the term “education poverty”. plan their return to professional life. This also means that after giving birth, if they wish, n 2009, this renowned social scientist they can start working full-time again and not Ipublished the highly regarded study just settle for part-time jobs. The work of ca- “Women On The Move”. In it young women ring for a family is no longer solely a women‘s speak about their lives and their goals. In issue and the term „bad mother“ is only to her latest book, “Verschenkte Potenziale?” be found in a lexicon of outmoded terms. (Wasted Potential?), Allmendinger analy- ses the situation of women who, despite being well educated, aren’t active in the workforce. When it comes to equality, notes Allmendinger, a lot has been accomplished in the past years, yet a lot remains to be done. A symphony of stone and steel

If musicians unexpectedly begin to play music also one of the most controversial. With his in a public square, people form a circle around principle of organic design Scharoun cre- them. The observation of this simple pheno- ated buildings with an eye to their future menon led Hans Scharoun to develop his mas- roles. The result was light-filled spaces where terpiece: the Philharmonie concert hall in Ber- people could interact, and which harmon- lin, where the audience seating is organised ised with the surrounding landscape. concentrically upwards around the orchestra podium. Its acoustics are world-renowned. charoun’s assistant, Edgar Wisniewski, Sbuilt the Chamber Music Hall and the he completion of the Philharmonie Museum of Musical Instruments using the Tin 1963 marked the turning point in architect’s designs. This ensemble of buildings, Scharoun’s career. Scharoun had returned located in the Mitte neighbourhood of Berlin, to his alma mater, Technische Univer- is unmistakable. They exemplify the archi- sität Berlin, in 1946 as a professor, and he tectural philosophy that a building’s design continued to teach there until 1958. This should evolve from the building’s function. rounded out the extraordinary career of an Even if Scharoun stretched the load-bearing architect who, although considered a genius limits of his construction materials, as well as in his early youth, only started to receive the nerves of the building team, to their very significant commissions in his later years. limits in the process: As Chair of the Depart- ment of Urban Planning, Scharoun insisted charoun became a major opponent of that students become actively involved in Sthe way post-war architecture short- research projects. He guided them to examine changed the general public: rationalism and the potentials and limits of construction prefabricated form schemas. To this day materials so that they would learn not to let he is considered one of the most original the materials dictate design, but instead be and imaginative German architects and is able to harness each material’s potential. Buildings in harmony with man and nature society

G8 | Hans Scharoun, Technische Universität Berlin | http://www.mai-nrw.de/Scharoun-Schule-Stadt.100.0.html http://opus.kobv.de/tuberlin/volltexte/2008/2012/html/festschrift/scharoun.htm http://scharoun-luenen.de/ When anger becomes action

G9 | Claus Leggewie, Institute for Advanced Study in the Humanities Essen, Universität Bochum, TU Dortmund University and the University of Duisburg-Essen | www.kwi-nrw.de Models for the future of democracy

From Tunis to New York to Stuttgart, hund- eggewie is one of the most respected reds of thousands of people worldwide L political scientists in Germany. He has took to the streets in 2011. They protested taught in New York, Paris, and Vienna, and is against dictators, banks, or even the con- currently a member of the German Advisory society struction of a railway station. In the US, Council on Global Change. Since 2007, he has Time magazine chose “the Demonstrator” led the Institute for Advanced Study in the as Man of the Year. In Germany, the “Wut- Humanities in Essen (KWI). This interdisciplin- bürger” (literally, “enraged citizen”) became ary research centre – a collaboration of a metaphor for the rage of a people that Universität Bochum, TU Dortmund University stretches all the way into conservative circles. and the University of Duisburg-Essen – is a think tank that addresses all issues affecting ut what happens when the anger fades? society today. International experts and BProtest alone is not enough, says political junior researchers examine the future of scientist Claus Leggewie: opposition should democracy at the KWI; they analyse, for lead to civic engagement. “Ending the world example, digital communications, climate that we all know requires individual and change, migration, and Islam. The KWI hosts collaborative decisions of often breath- some 70 events each year and collaborates taking scope and an uncertain outcome. with cultural organisations and important Financial markets have to be restrained, media outlets. For Leggewie, democracy climate crises must be contained, mistrust means that all of us – whether citizen, of the government has to be addressed, and politician, or scholar – must come together Europe must be saved,” writes Leggewie to discuss the issues affecting our future. in his latest book “Courage Instead of Anger: The Dawn of a New Democracy”. Literatures of the world in focus

“Only in the search itself does the human mind find the secret that it seeks”

Friedrich Schlegel | Lucinde

G10 | Irmela Hijiya-Kirschnereit, Freie Universität Berlin | www.fsgs.fu-berlin.de Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School of Literary Studies (FSGS)

As a cosmopolitan intellectual and a man ithin this focus, the historical depth of letters trained in philology, the poet Wcovered is unique – with all eras, from and scholar Friedrich Schlegel (1772–1829) ancient times to the present day, being represents a cultural consciousness that studied. A team of university lecturers and society transcends national boundaries. As patron of professors from various disciplines supervise the Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School (FSGS) approximately 50 doctoral and postdoctoral of Literary Studies, Germany’s only graduate researchers. Since 2012, the FSGS has school to focus solely on literary studies, he established a distinct research presence stands for theoretically sophisticated and within the academic community of the methodologically innovative research. German capital and is now collaborating with Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin and Berlin’s he academic profile of FSGS is determined two Max Planck Institutes. With its numerous Tby its emphasis on literary and compara- associated programmes, including the project tive analysis of world literatures, covering an “The Future of Philology”, funded by the state extraordinary range of subjects. It includes of Berlin, FSGS is a well-known, both region- literature from many European countries, but ally and internationally, as a hub for innova- also from non-European languages, including tive text interpretation and for historically above all the Arabic and the East Asian and culturally grounded scholarship. regions. How Jesus came to India A Cluster of Excellence in Heidelberg investigates cultural exchange between Asia and Europe

Take Leonardo da Vinci’s „The Last Supper“, hese experts are seeking answers to excit- the famous mural by the universal genius Ting questions: to what extent have Kant’s from Italy. Jesus is seated at a table with his works influenced philosophy and logic in Chi- disciples and has just revealed that one of na? Why were images of Mao so popular dur- society those present will betray him. Everyone knows ing the 1968 protest movement in the West? this Renaissance masterpiece. What is largely How did the melody of the French children’s unknown, however, is that the same motif song “Brother John” come to be used for pro- also appears in the works of Indian artists. paganda purposes in China? Transculturality is the defining key word at the Heidelberg Clus- ow are objects, images, themes, and ter of Excellence, referring to the dynamics Hperspectives transferred from one culture of exchange processes between cultures. The to another – for example, from Asia to Europe researchers are examining these processes in or vice versa? And how are they received the following areas: Governance and Admin- and developed further? These are the key istration, Public Spheres, Health and Environ- issues that occupy the approximately 200 ment, and Historicities and Heritage. Experts researchers within the Cluster of Excellence from the most diverse areas of research are “Asia and Europe in a Global Context” at contributing their knowledge to the cluster: Heidelberg University’s Karl Jaspers Cen- Egyptologists are collaborating with histo- tre for Advanced Transcultural Studies. rians, medical scientists, Indologists, Japa- nologists, and Sinologists – who are, in turn, working with art historians, Islamic studies scholars, sociologists, and many others.

G11 | Cluster of Excellence Asia and Europe, Heidelberg University www.asia-europe.uni-heidelberg.de/en 26 807

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