What a great and inspiring start to the year! The New Year’s Reception of the Women@DDc Network, hosted by the Barkhausen Institut, brought together a vibrant group of female scientists and science managers.

With a stunning sunset view over Dresden’s old town, conversations revolved around multiple topics, from careers and working in Dresden to job opportunities within the DRESDEN-concept research alliance. The diverse mix of participants across institutional boundaries was especially appreciated.

We are grateful for the great interest in the event and the dedicated networking. Despite financial challenges, we are very much looking forward to further events in 2026.

The event was funded from the DRESDEN-concept e.V. budget.

A new EU Graduate Competition 2026 will be published on February 5: https: //www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/karriere/io/karriere-in-europa/eu-concours-node

The application deadline is March 10, 2026.

Whether peace and security, climate protection, the economy or digitalization: Europe is facing a wide range of challenges today that will shape our future. It is precisely these decisions for the future of Europe that are being made in the European Union. If you want to meet these challenges and play an active role in shaping these issues, you can apply to the EU from February 5 to March 10!

For the first time since 2019, the EU is once again holding a general selection procedure ("Concours") for university graduates. This selection procedure paves the way for permanent employment as a civil servant at the EU - an exciting job with many opportunities.

We wish all students who apply good luck!

In November 2025, the third EUTOPIA Impact School took place, organised by the Graduate Academy of TU Dresden. Under the motto "Science Communication and Science Slam", doctoral candidates from EUTOPIA partner universities received an exclusive training programme on the topic of science communication.

As their final project, participants created video pitches about their individual research topics. The results are extremely creative and informative contributions.

Watch the videos here and gain an insight into the diverse research projects of our EUTOPIA early career researchers!

This course, "Financing Sustainable Blue Economy and Integration of Policies and Development," is designed to provide local and foreign students with a comprehensive understanding of the multifaceted maritime economy, its significance in global and European contexts, and the policies that shape its future. As we delve into the intricate relationship between economic development and environmental sustainability, students will gain valuable insights into how to finance and manage the sustainable use of ocean resources. As students, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to the sustainable management of ocean resources, ensuring that the Blue Economy thrives for generations to come.

Methodology:

Hybrid class in real time.
The course is conducted primarily through an expository teaching method, employed both by Professor Ruben Eiras and by a selection of guest experts who specialize in various relevant topics. These guest speakers bring a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience, enriching the learning environment and providing students with diverse perspectives.

Student Project: Pitch Development

In addition to the expository teaching method, a significant component of the course involves the development of a student-led project. Throughout the duration of the course, students work collaboratively in groups comprising 3 elements to create a pitch for a project on Sustainable Blue Economy that encapsulates their learning and insights gained from the various topics discussed. This project serves as a practical application of the theoretical knowledge acquired during the course, class by class.

Final Presentation to Expert Panel

The culmination of this project takes place during the final session, where students present their projects to a panel of experts, real life investors. In this context, students have the opportunity to showcase their creativity, critical thinking, and presentation skills.

Important dates:
Enrolment until: 13^th February.
Start: 19 February, 2026
Finish: 24 April 2026 (TBC)
Schedule: Fridays, 18h00-21h00 WET

Criteria for Application
Only students from EUTOPIA universities can apply. Each application complies 3, third year Bachelor’s students or Master’s Students and the identification of a local teacher that will be in charge of this group.
In the application for participation in the course, the assessment of academic merit is based on two key components, which contribute to the overall evaluation of each applicant. The first component, Academic Merit, accounts for 30% of the total assessment, while the second component, Motivation and Justification, constitutes 70% of the evaluation criteria.

Two of the selected groups are invited to come to Lisbon and pitch their projects in the room, with travelling and accommodation expenses assured.
 

All applications must fill the FORM below and send to the email: nova.inov.ped@unl.pt the following documents in pdf:

• Justification for Group Participation. 
• Motivation Letter.
• Verifiable documentation of the academic records of all team members.

FORM: Financing Sustainable Blue Economy and Integration of Policies and Development 2026 – Preencher o formulário

COURSE STRUCTURE

CHAPTER 1 - MEGA TRENDS OF BLUE ECONOMY, FINANCE, INNOVATION AND DEVELOPMENT POLICIES
1.1 Blue Economy Finance and Investment in the context of the «triple transition»: Geopolitics +Digital Transformation + Energy for Climate Change
1.2. Blue Investment and economy trends overview: blue economy value chains and interplay with Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Carbon Markets
1.3. Development policies 1: the essential about Integrated Maritime Policy of European Union
1.4. Development policies 2: an essential overview of UN and International Ocean Policies (OECD)


CHAPTER 2 - FINANCE FOR NON-FINANCIERS: HOW TO OPERATIONALIZE FINANCE STRATEGIES FOR BLUE ECONOMY

2.1. Core concepts of Finance Instruments 1: Private mechanisms
2.2. Core concepts of Finance Instruments 2: Public mechanisms - European funds of central, national and regional management
2.3. Catalytic Finance Strategies for Sustainable (ESG) Blue Economy: how to blend public mechanisms with private mechanisms


CHAPTER 3 - OCEAN BLUE FINANCE4DEVELOPMENT LAB

3.1. Open innovation tools for designing blue finance for development solutions: Core concepts about business models + Learning how to use business canvas + Michelin Movin'On Forecast methodology. Class is organized in 4-5 people teams. A different challenge will be addressed to each team.
3.2. Each Team presents their solution proposals to a jury panel of finance entities: Faber, CGD, EIB, Front Capital
3.3 Final lecture with a guest speaker: Stephan Morais, CEO of INDICO Capital Partners

The final presentation not only serves as a platform for students to demonstrate their understanding and application of the course material but will also provide them with invaluable experience in public speaking and professional presentation. The expert panel consists of individuals with extensive knowledge and experience in the relevant fields, who will evaluate the pitches based on criteria such as innovation, feasibility, and presentation quality.

The EUTOPIA Student Career Ambassadors (SCA) are a network of students from EUTOPIA alliance universities who organize workshops and events to help students build successful professional profiles and navigate career pathways.  Over the coming weeks, they are offering several online workshops open to students from all partner universities.

EU Professional Opportunities Workshop

Host: Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF)

Date & Time: February 11, 12:00 PM

Description: Learn about career opportunities within European Union institutions, types of jobs, employment relationships, required tests, and the hiring process.

Presented and moderated by Javier García Risco, EUTOPIA Student Career Ambassador at UPF, the session will feature the interventions of the following speakers:

•  Alina Anton, Press and Information Officer - Communication, Outreach and Marketing - at the European Commission
•  Sasha Bacardit García, Ambassador UNICAT UPF
•  Luca Augello Ruiz, Alumni UPF and Adviser to the Director at the European Parliament

Registration: Register here

Job Orientation: Discover Yourself!

Date & Time: Monday, February 23, 19:00–20:00 

Focus: Self-analysis and personal branding to identify what job you really want and how to communicate it effectively.

Teams Link: Join here

CV, LinkedIn and Cover Letter: The Blueprint of Your Career

Date & Time: Thursday, February 26, 12:00–13:00 

Focus: How to create a strong CV and cover letter, and use LinkedIn as a networking and information tool to stand out.

Teams Link: Join here

From Local to Global: Career Pathways through Civil Society

Date & Time: March 24, 15:00–16:00 CET 

Focus: How young people can find international opportunities and build careers through civil society organizations, including Erasmus+ projects.

Teams Link: To be announced

If you want to explore career opportunities and develop your professional skills within the European context, these workshops by the EUTOPIA Student Career Ambassadors offer valuable insights and networking chances!

A total of 151 young talents from TUD Dresden University of Technology, 15 companies and numerous industry representatives came together at the Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research to take a look into the future of microelectronics and optoelectronics.

Professor Stefan Mannsfeld from the Center for Advancing Electronics Dresden outlined the impressive development of microelectronics (FYI: better "nanoelectronics") in Dresden and at TUD. The talents of our university are the most important driving force behind this success story!

Keynote speaker Dr. Christian Koitzsch followed on from this and presented his vision of an innovative center of the European chip industry in Dresden. He encouraged people to learn Mandarin as well as German and English.

The subsequent pitches by the employers made it a perfect blend of science, passion and practice. This is exactly what drives our region and the industry forward!

👏A big thank you to everyone who made this valuable exchange possible with their commitment and made this evening a success.

👉 Stay tuned: The future of microelectronics and optoelectronics will not only be shaped in clean rooms or at conference tables, but above all through lively networks. With Silicon Saxony, the state capital Dresden is ideally positioned here.

Participating companies

TUM and TUD launch next generation of mobile communications

• The research focuses on communication methods for networked, collaborative robotics and transferring the results into tangible applications.
• To strengthen technological sovereignty, the focus is on supporting start-ups.
• The Federal Ministry of Research is supporting the second phase with EUR 25 million over four years.

With the start of the second funding phase of the "6G-life²" project, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) and TUD Dresden University of Technology are strengthening their leading roles in the development of future communication technologies. Interdisciplinary teams are developing concepts and technical solutions for the sixth generation of mobile communications, which is expected to launch commercially in 2030. The current project phase of the "6G-life²" transfer hub will run until December 2029.

Today's 5G mobile communications standard focuses primarily on communication between machines. With 6G, however, the focus will shift to humans, i.e., their communication and interaction with machines and virtual worlds. Examples include care robots and teleoperations. Since the start of the first funding period, “6G-life” in 2021, researchers have already established an ecosystem of fundamental research and application-oriented technology developments. In the second project phase, “6G-life²,” these foundations will now be used for the targeted transfer of research results into practice, enabling the creation of concrete technologies for the network of the future. The German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space is supporting “6G-life²” with EUR 25 million over four years as part of the “6G Research Roadmap 2025–2030.” The 6G Roadmap aims to pave the way for secure and resilient 6G communication technologies, enabling Germany to continue shaping the technologies of tomorrow.

“The infrastructure of the future must not only be powerful and reliable, but above all secure, sustainable, flexible, and ultimately cost-effective to implement. This is precisely why we at TUM are working with TUD to develop the necessary concepts and technologies,” says Wolfgang Kellerer, Professor of Communication Networks at TUM. “At the same time, we are looking to establish a direct transfer of knowledge to industry and incorporate the fundamentals of 6G into teaching.”

The second funding phase focuses on communication for networked robotics
Future research by “6G-life²” goes beyond pure communication and integrates computing as the basis for new business models. In computing, the focus is on energy-efficient and fast calculation methods, enabling numerous applications to function in real-time. This includes important topics such as the industrial metaverse, i.e., virtual and digital representations of factories and working environments, as well as robotics, sensor technology, and motion mechanisms for human-machine interaction.

Another key component of the second funding phase of “6G-life²” is the construction of a complete demonstrator. Its purpose is not only to examine whether the technologies developed function reliably, but also to test new applications and clearly illustrate the advantages of 6G.

Targeted support for start-ups
Another important component of the initiative is providing targeted support to start-ups. “Technological sovereignty is of crucial importance, especially in the telecommunications industry, where Asian companies play a dominant role,” says Wolfgang Kellerer. “To successfully advance the development of 6G in Bavaria and Germany, new technology companies are needed to fill existing gaps and quickly bring innovative solutions to the market.” The joint start-up incubator Launchhub42, based in Dresden, had already been established in 2024 to support the transfer of results to society.

"Technological sovereignty and a strong startup ecosystem are at the heart of ‘6G-life²’ and are now also reflected in the German government's high-tech agenda. We have already demonstrated the potential of excellent spin-offs in the field of 6G and robotics through our previous applications and close cooperation between TUD, TUM, and our transfer network," says Frank Fitzek, Professor of the Deutsche Telekom Chair of Communication Networks at TUD. "The fact that the German government is so clearly emphasizing the importance of technological sovereignty for prosperity and social resilience reinforces our ambition for the coming funding phase: We will continue to drive forward technological sovereignty – sustainably, in a trustworthy manner, and with the clear goal of translating cutting-edge research into innovations even faster. Projects such as ‘6G-life²’ lay the foundation for this with immersive, intelligent networks and real high-tech applications made in Germany."

Further information:

• In Bavaria, the second phase of the “6G Future Lab Bavaria” was launched in April last year. It is funded by the Bavarian State Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development, and Energy.
• The gAIn project initiated by Saxony and Bavaria on new approaches in AI computing also supports the goals of “6G-life²”.
• In Saxony, the Saxon State Ministry for Science, Culture, and Tourism already supports numerous research initiatives on robotics, quantum communication, and the tactile internet with the participation of 6G-life, which are seamlessly coordinated with the second funding phase.
• “Quicker and safer: the 6G Research Roadmap has arrived“ (German: “Schneller und sicherer: Die 6G-Forschungsroadmap ist da“ (Press release of the BMFTR from December 29, 2025) https://www.bmftr.bund.de/SharedDocs/Kurzmeldungen/DE/2025/12/6g-forschungsroadmap.html (in German)
• “Our path to 6G“ (German: “Unser Weg zu 6G“ (6G Research Roadmap 2025-2030) https://www.bmftr.bund.de/SharedDocs/Publikationen/DE/5/1118894_Unser_Weg_zu_6G.html (in German)
   

Scientific contact:
Prof. Holger Boche
Technical University of Munich
Professorship of Theoretical Information Technology
holger.boche@tum.de

Prof. Wolfgang Kellerer
Technical University of Munich
Professorship of Communication Networks
wolfgang.kellerer@tum.de

Prof. Frank H. P. Fitzek
TUD Dresden University of Technology
Deutsche Telekom Chair of Communication Networks
frank.fitzek@tu-dresden.de  

TUM Corporate Communications Center contact:
Julia Rinner
Media relations
presse@tum.de
www.tum.de
 

Circular economy for hydrogen: On January 7, 2026, TUD Dresden University of Technology welcomed the Minister President of the Free State of Saxony, Michael Kretschmer, as well as representatives from TUD Dresden University of Technology, Chemnitz (TUC), and Freiberg (TUBAF), including the University of Applied Sciences Dresden (HTWD) for a strategy meeting on the further development of the Saxon Hydrogen Union.

The focus was on the recently successful joint project “Hy²Cycle“, which was funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and in which the Chair of Hydrogen and Nuclear Energy (Prof. Antonio Hurtado) at TUD is significantly involved. The joint project is a flagship project of application and cycle-oriented hydrogen research, which is being implemented within the framework of the Saxon Hydrogen Union.

Michael Kretschmer, Minister President of the Free State of Saxony:

"Hydrogen is and will remain an energy source of the future and a key component of the climate-neutral transformation. The strong collaboration within the Saxon Hydrogen Union ensures technological progress, regional value creation, and competitiveness on a European and global scale. Despite currently high energy prices, scarce availability, and challenging European framework conditions, we are working consistently with the federal government to ensure that hydrogen strategies achieve their full potential."

Prof. Ursula Staudinger, Rector of TUD:

"In light of climate change, hydrogen will play a central role in future energy supply – and research into it requires technological excellence as well as interdisciplinary perspectives from the environment, economy, politics, and society. Alongside the Saxon Hydrogen Union and projects such as H2-RARE and the now approved Hy²Cycle, which is financed by ERDF funds, the technical universities in Dresden, Freiberg, and Chemnitz are pooling their complementary strengths with the HTWD. In this way, we are creating a research alliance with capabilities that uses resources efficiently and makes innovations visible."

Prof. Angela Rösen-Wolff, Vice-Rector Research and Technology Transfer at TUD:

"The Hy²Cycle project impressively demonstrates how powerful and future-oriented hydrogen research in Saxony is. As TUD, we contribute our interdisciplinary research strengths in engineering, natural sciences, and materials science to the Saxon Hydrogen Union in a targeted manner. Together with our partner universities, we provide the scientific foundations, technological solutions, and thus also a basis for innovative start-ups, which are of central importance for a climate-neutral industry and sustainable value creation in our Free State.”

Prof. Antonio Hurtado, Chair of Hydrogen and Nuclear Energy at TUD:

Hy²Cycle pursues a consistent approach to circular economy in hydrogen technology. We develop reversible and recyclable electrolyzer and fuel cell components that are not only efficient but also resource-efficient and industrially scalable. In doing so, we are addressing key challenges of the energy transition and making a concrete contribution to establishing Saxony as an internationally visible location for hydrogen technologies."

Resource-efficient hydrogen production – contributing to the energy transition

Hy²Cycle addresses key future issues relating to the energy transition: It focuses on developing recyclable electrolyzer and fuel cell components, particularly for alkaline high-pressure electrolysis. This process increases the efficiency of energy-intensive hydrogen production, thereby saving energy and costs. The goal is to enable energy-efficient, resource-saving, and reusable fuel cell systems along the entire value chain.

In collaboration with HTWD, TUD will focus on several work packages, in particular the development and production of a recyclable alkaline fuel cell/electrolyzer unit and the construction of a test facility.

Sustainable energy – tomorrow's driving force and value creation

In addition, representatives from the participating universities and HTWD discussed further contributions to the development of the Saxon Hydrogen Union and the establishment of a hydrogen-based circular economy in Saxony with the Minister President.

Simultaneously, Hy²Cycle was presented as an example of future joint activities. TU Dresden showcases its interdisciplinary strengths – from materials and laser research to energy technology and the safety and sustainability aspects of the hydrogen economy.

Background: Saxon Hydrogen Union

The Saxon Hydrogen Union was founded in 2022 by the three Saxon technical universities TUD, TUC, and TUBAF to pool expertise in research, teaching, and transfer, and at the same time position Saxony as an internationally visible hydrogen location. Since then, numerous joint projects have been acquired that combine basic and application-oriented research with industrial transfer. With the acquisition and implementation of “Hy²Cycle,” the partners, in close cooperation with HTWD, are now taking another important step toward a circular, sustainable hydrogen economy in Saxony that will bring together not only scientific stakeholders but also diverse regional partners from business and industry.

Contact:
TUD Dresden University of Technology
Press Office
Tel. +49 351 463 32398
pressestelle@tu-dresden.de

Success in the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions: Approximately EUR 2.76 million for doctoral networks ranging from sustainable space launches to cancer therapy

TUD Dresden University of Technology performed exceptionally well in the 2024 call for Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Doctoral Networks. In total, seven projects involving TU Dresden (TUD) were selected for funding. One of these networks is coordinated by TUD. In the other six, TUD is involved as a partner. A total of around EUR 2.76 million will be allocated to TUD for this purpose.
The MSCA Doctoral Networks are a part of the EU Horizon Europe Framework program. They provide support for international doctoral programs in which academic and non-academic institutes work together to train outstanding early-career researchers. The aim is to provide the best education for highly qualified doctoral students, to strengthen their creativity and innovative skills, and to broaden their career prospects both within and outside academia.

This success was made possible by professional support from the applicant. TUD’s European Project Center supports the teams from the initial application stage through to project implementation. The SLICE project, which is coordinated by TUD, will start on January 1.

The seven funded MSCA Doctoral Networks with TUD involvement

SLICE – Space Launch Impact on Climate and Environment

TUD’s role: Coordinator
Project lead (TUD): Dr. Christian Bach, Prof. Martin Tajmar (Faculty of Mechanical Science and Engineering)
Funding sum for TUD: EUR 580,544.64

The SLICE project researches the impact of space launches on the climate and environment. In an international Doctoral Network, experts in space technology and climate science will work together to better understand the environmental footprint of launch systems and to design more sustainable space-launch technologies. TU Dresden is coordinating the Network and  consolidating its leading role in space and propulsion technology.
Further information

COMBINE – Coupled Problems for Decarbonization in Industry and Power Generation

TUD’s role: Partner (beneficiary)
Project lead (TUD): Prof. Maik Gude (Faculty of Mechanical Science and Engineering)
Funding sum for TUD: EUR 290,272.32

COMBINE addresses the complex interrelationship between liquids and structures, known as fluid–structure interaction (FSI). The objective is to develop methods and materials that are especially relevant for decarbonization strategies in industry and energy production. TU Dresden contributes its expertise in simulation, materials and lightweight construction research and, together with its partners, trains a new generation of FSI specialists. The integration of TUD into the COMBINE network is ultimately the result of the 2024 HZDR-TUD Matching Day.

E-Sailors – Electric solar wind sail doctors

TUD’s role: Partner (beneficiary)
Project lead (TUD): Prof. Martin Tajmar (Faculty of Mechanical Science and Engineering)
Funding sum for TUD: EUR 725,680.80

The E-Sailors project is developing a novel electric solar sail propulsion system that uses solar wind to propel vessels through space. TU Dresden is responsible for key technologies for electrically charging the sail. The Doctoral Network covers sail and satellite design, modeling, mission analysis, and the path to demonstration in space—an important step toward more efficient propulsion systems for future space missions.

https://esailors.ut.ee/

EXODOCS – ExoMars Rosalind Franklin Doctoral Network

TUD’s role: Partner (beneficiary)
Project lead (TUD): Prof. Dirk Plettemeier (Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering)
Funding sum for TUD: EUR 290,272.32

EXODOCS builds on the successes of the ExoMars Rover mission Rosalind Franklin and establishes a Doctoral Network in the fields of planetary exploration and astrobiology. TU Dresden contributes its expertise in high-frequency and communications technology as well as sensor technology. PhD students trained in the network work on preparing future missions to Mars and to deepening our understanding of the Martian environment and the search for extraterrestrial life.

RAPTORplus – Right-time Adaptive Particle Therapy Of canceR – Personalization through anatomical plus biological adaptation

TUD’s role: Partner (beneficiary)
Project lead (TUD): Prof. Christian Richter (Faculty of Medicine)
Funding sum for TUD: EUR 290,272.32

The RAPTORplus project is developing the next generation of personalized adaptive proton therapy. The focus is on the efficient implementation of online adaptive treatment strategies, technological advances for broad clinical application, and the biomarker-based individualization of therapy. TU Dresden is involved through the OncoRay Center, which is jointly supported by TU Dresden, the University Hospital, and the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf, and thus plays a role in training doctoral students working at the cutting edge of medical physics, clinical practice, and technology.

REACT – Self-AwaRe NEuromorphic ArChiTectures: Security, Reliability and Energy-Efficiency

TUD’s role: Partner (beneficiary)
Project lead (TUD): Prof. Jeronimo Castrillon (Faculty of Computer Science)
Funding sum for TUD: EUR 290,272.32

The REACT network is training 15 doctoral students in neuromorphic systems—computer architectures inspired by the human brain. The goal is to develop adaptive, secure, and extremely energy-efficient hardware and software solutions. TU Dresden contributes its expertise in compiler technology and system software, helping to unlock the potential of neuromorphic systems for future, sustainable IT applications.

SHIELD – Strategies for Healing Implant-associated infections and Enhancing Longevity in Devices

TUD’s role: Partner (beneficiary)
Project lead (TUD): Prof. Michael Gelinsky (Faculty of Medicine)
Funding sum for TUD: EUR 290,272.32

The SHIELD Doctoral Network focuses on infections related to implants, which cause serious complications, particularly in orthopedics, ENT medicine, and dentistry. TU Dresden's Center for Translational Bone, Joint, and Soft Tissue Research is exploring new antibacterial strategies based on the local release of bacteriophages from biomaterials. The goal is to significantly increase the service life and safety of medical implants through innovative materials and translational research.

https://www.shield-dn.eu/en

With these seven doctoral networks, TU Dresden is strengthening its international visibility and competitiveness in graduate education—from aerospace and energy technology to computer science, medicine, and biomedicine. At the same time, they make an vital contribution to training the next generation of top researchers in Europe.

Media contact:
TU Dresden
European Project Center
Friederieke Noack | Grop Leader/Head of Unit
Tel: +49 351 463-42191
friederieke.noack@tu-dresden.de 
www.epc-dresden.de

One and a half years after the first students from Saxony embarked on a six-month stay in Taiwan as part of their studies with the Semiconductor Talent Incubation Program (STIPT), the program is now being expanded and will be offered nationwide in future.

The Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) has now signed a corresponding agreement with the previous partners, the Saxon State Ministry of Science, Culture and Tourism (SMWK), TUD Dresden University of Technology and the Taiwanese semiconductor group Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (TSMC).

In total, up to 100 students per year can participate in a study visit and gain valuable, practical experience.

The University of Excellence TUD Dresden University of Technology organizes the program on behalf of the Saxon Ministry of Science and organizes the exchange with partner universities and TSMC in Taiwan alongside the Saxon Science Liaison Office Taiwan.

Saxony's Minister of Science Sebastian Gemkow welcomes the federal government's involvement: "The talent program to promote young professionals in the German semiconductor research and industry sector has established itself excellently, thanks to our strong partners at Taiwan's universities and at TSMC. We are proud to be a pioneer and to be able to support even more talented students in the future. "This has been made possible not least by the strong commitment of TU Dresden, which has acted as a nucleus for building a close partnership with the academic community in Taiwan."

The Rector of the University of Excellence TUD, Prof. Ursula Staudinger, adds: "As a University of Excellence with a strong profile in microelectronics, chip design and data-intensive technologies — and in close cooperation with our partners in science, politics and industry — we make a significant contribution to training the specialists that Germany urgently needs as a semiconductor hub. For two years now, we have been coordinating the Semiconductor Talent Incubation Program — a program that is already setting high standards thanks to the fruitful collaboration between universities, research institutions and businesses in Saxony and Taiwan and whose importance is clearly demonstrated and proven in view of the largest European semiconductor cluster in Dresden. The fact that the STIPT program now boasts a nationwide reach, under the leadership of TUD and funded by the federal government, underlines its effectiveness and the central role of TUD in attracting and qualifying the best minds for microelectronics."

Several dozen young men and women from universities in Saxony have already completed the STIPT program or are currently in the process of doing so in Taiwan. Owing to the great interest from other federal states and the importance of the project for the future of Germany as a semiconductor hub, the BMFTR is now also actively involved. In the future, 100 places per year will be allocated to interested parties as part of the exchange program. 60 of these will continue to be reserved for students from universities in Saxony, and a further 40 for students will hail from other federal states.

In total, the federal and state governments will provide around EUR 900,000 per year to finance the STIPT. The federal government will contribute 40 percent of the costs.

Contact:
Falk Lange
Sächsisches Staatsministerium für Wissenschaft, Kultur und Tourismus
+49 351 564-60200
presse@smwk.sachsen.de

TUD Dresden University of Technology supports the qualitative development of inter-company construction training with its Chair of Construction, Wood and Paint Technology and Interior Design / Vocational Didactics.

How can vocational training in the construction industry be made fit for the future in order to meet the increasing demands on skilled workers, sustainability, and digitalization? This question is addressed by a new collaborative project called ExA-BAU Excellent Training in the Construction Industry, which is funded by the Federal Ministry for Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMBFSFJ) as part of the funding line Initiative for Excellent Inter-Company Training (INex-ÜBA) with a total of EUR 8.1 million over the period from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2028.

The project focuses on the development, testing, and establishment of qualification structures and training programs for vocational trainers, measures to lower dropout rates, cooperation between learning venues, the design of inter-company training centers in the construction industry as future-oriented learning environments, as well as the recruitment of young talent domestically and abroad.

ExA-Bau brings together eight inter-company training centers from across Germany, as well as TUD Dresden University of Technology and the Fraunhofer Building Innovation Alliance.

With the expertise of the Chair of Construction, Wood and Paint Technology and Interior Design / Vocational Didactics, a competence-oriented qualification framework for training personnel is being established based on a comparison of existing and yet-to-be-defined requirements. The establishment of a nationwide digital media pool for learning content and the optimization of equipment at inter-company training centers is supported by incorporating the technical, methodological, and social skills necessary for their development and use. In addition, training programs are being developed that refer to existing trade-specific qualification structures.

TUD project manager Marcel Schweder: “The role of inter-company training centers in the construction industry is not limited to merely supplementing company-based training or offering continuing education programs, but explicitly includes the provision of high-quality, future-oriented, and profession-specific and learner-specific teaching and learning settings that enable the acquisition of professional action competence.
 This entails numerous challenges on both organizational and personnel levels.
 The ExA-BAU project has the potential to sustainably address several of these challenges.”

The ”ExA-BAU“ project is funded as part of the ”Initiative for Excellent Inter-Company Training (INex-ÜBA)" of the Federal Ministry of Education, Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMBFSFJ). INex-ÜBA is implemented by the Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training (BIBB).

Contact

Dr. Marcel Schweder (Project Manager)
Chair of Construction, Wood and Paint Technology and Interior Design/ Vocational Didactics
Tel.: +49 351 463 33459
marcel.schweder@tu-dresden.de

Mandy Köditz (Research Associate)
Chair of Construction, Wood and Paint Technology and Interior Design/ Vocational Didactics
Tel.: +49 351 463 43093
mandy.koeditz@tu-dresden.de

Paul Plaschnick (Research Associate)
Chair of Construction, Wood and Paint Technology and Interieur Design/ Vocational Didactics
Tel.: +49 351 463-34567
paul.plaschnick@tu-dresden.de

Nach erfolgreichen Beteiligungsformaten in Dresden und Spremberg fand am 25. November 2025 die Abschlussveranstaltung der „Zukunftswerkstatt Lausitz 2050 – Energie im Fokus“ statt. Teilnehmende aus Wissenschaft, Wirtschaft, Politik und Zivilgesellschaft präsentierten ihre gemeinsam entwickelten Zukunftsvisionen und Maßnahmen für Energiewende und Stadtentwicklung. Die Ergebnisse wurden offiziell an die Spremberger Stadtverwaltung übergeben und mit lokalen Akteuren diskutiert. Initiiert und wissenschaftlich begleitet wurde die Zukunftswerkstadt von Forschenden der Technischen Universität Dresden (TUD).

Bindeglied zwischen Forschung und Gesellschaft

Die „Zukunftswerkstatt Lausitz 2050 – Energie im Fokus“ zeigt beispielhaft, wie partizipative Formate zum Bindeglied zwischen Forschung und Gesellschaft werden können und Vertrauen schaffen: weg von einseitiger Wissensvermittlung, hin zu gegenseitigem Lernen und gemeinsamen Visionen.

„Die Energiewende ist nicht nur eine Frage der Technik, sondern des Miteinanders“, so Projektleiterin Katharina Hunger, die begleitend den Austausch wissenschaftlicher und nicht-wissenschaftlicher Akteure im Strukturwandel der Lausitz erforscht. „Unsere Visionen zeigen Spremberg im Jahr 2050 als lebenswerte Stadt, die auf Zusammenhalt, Bildung und Mitgestaltung setzt.“

Der kreative Austausch im Rahmen der Zukunftswerkstatt verlief in drei Phasen und mündete in einem gemeinsamen Problemverständnis der Energiewende, visualisierten Zukunftsbildern für 2050 sowie in umsetzungsorientierten Maßnahmen für die vier Bereiche „Gesellschaftlicher Zusammenhalt und Dialogkultur“, „Klimaneutrales Spremberg 2050“, „Zukunftsperspektiven für Jugendliche“ und „Fachkräftesicherung“.

So schlugen die Workshop-Teilnehmenden beispielsweise moderierte Streiträume vor und stellten für die Umsetzung einen konkreten Zeitplan auf. Die Teilnehmenden diskutierten, wie die Pariser Klimaziele in Spremberg durch eine lokale Energie- und Wärmewende umgesetzt werden könnten und auch die Zukunftsperspektiven für Jugendliche in der Region wurden in den Workshops adressiert. Letztere könnten zum Beispiel durch die Stärkung des Jugendparlaments oder die Gründung von Jugend-GmbHs verbessert werden. Fachkräfte sollen über Kooperationen mit Wissenschaftseinrichtungen in der Region gehalten werden.

Austausch auf Augenhöhe – und die Bedeutung des Zuhörens

Die Workshops mit acht bis zehn Teilnehmenden zeigten: Austausch auf Augenhöhe zwischen Wissenschaft und Praxis führt zu mehr als rein technologischen Aushandlungen. In einem geschützten Raum, der Platz für individuelle Kompetenzen bietet, gehe es vor allem ums Zuhören: Erkenntnisse entstünden besonders dann, wenn Praxiswissen einbezogen wird.

Die gemeinsam entwickelten Ansätze aus unterschiedlichen Rollen und Verantwortungen heraus sollen langfristig Akzeptanz und Innovation in der Lausitzregion stärken. Eine zentrale Erkenntnis: Die Zukunftsvisionen und die Maßnahmen stellen die Gemeinschaft in den Mittelpunkt der Energiewende.

Zukunft gestalten im Dialog

Besonders prägend waren die Gegensätze zwischen den Perspektiven der Dresdner Gruppe, die technische Lösungsansätze in den Vordergrund stellte, und den Erfahrungen der Spremberger Teilnehmenden, die den sozialen Wandel in der Lausitz unmittelbar erleben. Durch die digitale Vernetzung beider Gruppen entstand ein kontinuierlicher Dialog, der regionale Unterschiede sichtbar machte und gemeinsame Lösungsansätze stärkte.

Hintergrund

In der „Zukunftswerkstatt Lausitz 2050 – Energie im Fokus“ diskutierten Forschende, Bürger:innen und Unternehmer:innen über Herausforderungen in der Strukturwandelregion Lausitz. Katharina Hunger, wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin am Zentrum für Produktionstechnik und Organisation (CIMTT) der TU Dresden, initiierte und leitete das Projekt. Es wurde vom Bundesministerium für Forschung, Technik und Raumfahrt (BMFTR) sowie Wissenschaft im Dialog (WiD) im Rahmen des Hochschulwettbewerbs zum Wissenschaftsjahr 2025 – Zukunftsenergie mit 10.000 Euro gefördert.

Der Ergebnisbericht des Projekts ist hier abrufbar: https://datashare.tu-dresden.de/s/bBL3N7X3spyFq9P

Ansprechpartnerin:
Katharina Hunger
CIMTT – Zentrum für Produktionstechnik und Organisation
Technische Universität Dresden
katharina.hunger@tu-dresden.de
+49 351 463-33597

Innovative Higher Education Didactics from Dresden at India’s Largest Learning Technology Fair

Prof. Thomas Köhler from the Center for Open Digital Innovation and Participation (CODIP) at TU Dresden is currently presenting the Erasmus+ project “Future-Oriented Academic Teacher Education with Innovative Methodologies for Next-Gen Asian HEIs (FRACTION)” at Didac India 2025 in Delhi. The fair is regarded as India’s leading platform for educational innovation and annually attracts numerous professionals from across Asia. There is traditionally a high level of interest in innovative study programs from Germany.

FRACTION: Qualifying University Teachers in Asia and Europe

Coordinated by the Faculty of Education and CODIP at TU Dresden, the program is implemented together with 12 partner universities from Europe and Asia. Its aim is to qualify university teachers in Asia in innovative didactic methods and curriculum development. In this way, TU Dresden is making a sustainable contribution to improving teaching quality and fostering international academic cooperation.

Accreditation as a Quality Seal

A particular highlight: the international training program FRACTION was recently officially accredited by the renowned agency ACQUIN and is recognized until September 2029. This not only confirms the quality and international compatibility of the program, but also underscores the forward-looking approach of teacher education developed at TU Dresden.

“The accreditation by ACQUIN confirms the quality and effectiveness of the program and marks an important milestone for international teacher education. At TU Dresden, we cooperate with universities around the world and are able to identify trends in academic education at an early stage – especially with regard to digital transformation. Together with our partners in Asia and Europe, we have incorporated these trends into the FRACTION program.” (Prof. Dr. Thomas Köhler, Director of CODIP at TU Dresden)

Long-term Impact and International Networking

The international consortium is integrating the project results into the ongoing work of Centers of Teaching Excellence in India, China, and Vietnam. TU Dresden has also recently been designated as a Center of Excellence for Vocational Education. This is designed to strengthen teaching innovation and curricular development in the long term.

With FRACTION, TU Dresden is further strengthening its position as a key partner in international higher education didactics, with focus on media and engineering education, and highlighting its expertise in digital education and open innovation with global reach.
A special emphasis is placed on the long-standing and trusting cooperation with TU Wroclaw (WUST), which, as a strategic partner and former project coordinator, has made a significant contribution to the successful development and implementation of FRACTION. The close cooperation and strong team spirit within the international consortium have been crucial for the project’s success and are also reflected in the shared delight at the accreditation achieved.

Further information about the program: https://fraction.pwr.edu.pl

About CODIP – Open Digital Innovation and Participation

CODIP is an interdisciplinary department within CIDS – the Center for Interdisciplinary Digital Sciences at TU Dresden. It explores how digital media and technologies can innovate teaching, learning, and research, focusing on novel teaching methods, participatory formats, and the use of the latest digital technologies, such as AI.With a team of over 50 staff members from media and social sciences, psychology, education, computer science, and media design, CODIP develops interdisciplinary research projects, educational innovations, and digital applications – both independently and in collaboration with partners at TU Dresden, throughout Germany, and in more than 20 countries. CODIP serves as a model center for similar institutions in Europe and beyond.

Further information: www.tu-dresden.de/codip

Press contact
Alina Galkova
CIDS - Center for Interdisciplinary Digital Sciences, Department CODIP
Phone: +49 351 463-36261
Email: alina.galkova@tu-dresden.de

In 2033, the National Garden Show (BUGA) will be held in Dresden, marking its debut of being hosted in Saxony. The potential that this major event could have for the city is highlighted in the latest update to the BUGA concept, which was presented on November 21, 2025 by Mayor Dirk Hilbert alongside numerous BUGA partners, including representatives from TUD Dresden University of Technology. TUD has been closely involved in the BUGA planning process from the drawing board all the way through to the feasibility study. It has been providing intensive support, including scientific and design input. Under the guiding theme “MOMENTUM BUGA DRESDEN 2033 – We are planting the future,” the next phase of implementation is now underway.

TUD closely involved

A key component in the development of a vibrant city is close cooperation with strong partners from science, the region, and business. TUD and HTW Dresden provide scientific input.

The Institute of Landscape Architecture at TUD, headed by Director Prof. Catrin Schmidt, provided significant support to the city of Dresden in developing a concept for the National Garden Show and will continue to closely accompany the project. Designs and final theses by landscape architecture students continually bring fresh ideas and inspiration to the project. As part of a student competition organized by the Institute of Concrete Structures and the Collaborative Research Center/Transregio 280 under the patronage of the city of Dresden, designs were created for a pedestrian and bicycle bridge at Südpark Dresden.

What is the plan so far?

With the updated BUGA concept, the planning from the 2023 feasibility study is being adapted to current financial, organizational, and social parameters. The aim is to set priorities and focal points and to define the strategic basis for the next planning steps. BUGA 2033 builds on many existing city plans—including the climate adaptation concept, the heat action plan, and the Integrated Urban Development Concept (INSEK). It will combine these different approaches and make their goals visible and tangible for everyone. In this way, the National Garden Show will contribute to making Dresden more resilient to the effects of climate change, thereby improving the microclimate in the city and using land more sustainably in the future.

The BUGA will focus on two central development axes covering an area of around 100 hectares, which will shape Dresden in the long term:

• Lifeline Südpark – TU Dresden – City Center: With the motto “Dresdens neuer Weitblick” (Dresden's new vision) in mind, a connection between green spaces, movement, sports, and culture is being created – as a symbol of climate awareness, recreation, and community.
• Lifeline Prohlis – Galopprennbahn (Horse Racing Track) – Leuben Kiesseen (lakes): The title “Dresdens neues Miteinander” (Dresden's new togetherness) refers to a connection between the city, active space, water, and nature that is being created – as a symbol of ecological transformation, participation, and quality of life.

The project involves investments of around EUR 120 million, which will be distributed across three core areas: Südpark (EUR 39 million), Galopprennbahn (EUR 39 million), and theLeuben Kiesseen  (EUR 19 million), as well as other urban development areas such as the city center and Prohlis. The investment amounts to EUR 60 million in state funds from the city of Dresden and EUR 60 million in subsidies. Compared with the 2023 feasibility study, no locations have been fully removed from the BUGA concept.

The City of Dresden will present the updated concept to the municipal committees. A decision by the city council is expected at the beginning of 2026. A competition for garden and landscape architects is planned for mid-2026. Once the competition has been concluded, concrete construction planning for the permanent BUGA facilities will begin and initial construction work will start in 2029.

The EUTOPIA Alliance now offers students from all partner universities the opportunity to gain hands-on research experience through the new Research Internship Programme. The programme is designed for students who wish to spend at least 60 days working in research groups, laboratories, or other scientific units.

Internships can be funded through the Erasmus+ programme, which can cover travel and living expenses during the stay. The working language is usually English, although other languages may be used depending on the host institution.

Interested students can find detailed information on the EUTOPIA website. The site lists all partner universities, available internships, and the application procedures. Applications can be submitted either via the home university or directly through the host institution, depending on university requirements.

The Research Internship Programme is part of EUTOPIA’s strategy to promote international mobility and scientific networking across Europe. It offers students the opportunity to gain practical research experience, connect with researchers from other countries, and enhance their academic career on an international level.

For more information and a full list of available opportunities, students can visit the EUTOPIA Alliance website: Research Internship Programme