Faculty IV's 2026 Annual Celebration

14.07.2026

Natural Sciences and Technology School Annual Celebration: Sunshine, a Red Carpet, and Lots of Applause for Up-and-Coming Scholars

The School of Science and Technology at the University of Siegen celebrated its graduates and newly minted Ph.D. recipients in a festive setting. At the annual celebration in the Apollo Theater, the focus was on the achievements of the next generation of scientists—as well as awards for outstanding research and dedicated teaching.

The conditions could hardly have been better: Under bright sunshine and walking across a red carpet, guests streamed into the Apollo Theater. The anticipation for the highlight of the day—the ceremonial presentation of diplomas—was palpable. Even before the event began, many graduates took advantage of the photo backdrop featuring the sculpture of the faculty logo to take commemorative photos in their academic gowns and doctoral caps.

At the end of the ceremony, all the graduates and award winners came on stage.

A Day for Celebrating and Networking

Opening Remarks

In his welcoming remarks, the Dean of the School of Science and Technology, Prof. Dr. Holger Schönherr, praised the achievements of the graduates, the newly minted doctoral candidates, and those who had recently completed their habilitation: “To achieve your goals, you have worked hard, demonstrated perseverance and determination, and mastered your degree with flying colors.” At the same time, he noted that family and friends had often been an important source of support along the way.

Deputy Mayor Tristan Vitt also warmly congratulated the graduates and conveyed greetings from the university city of Siegen. He highlighted the promising opportunities that the city and region offer to highly qualified professionals and encouraged the graduates to shape their future in Siegen: “We need bright minds, creative ideas, and dedicated people like you.”

Keynote Address

The keynote address by Prof. Dr. Oliver Wallscheid provided insight into current research topics and future trends. Under the title “Power Electronics—The Invisible Key Technology Behind the Energy Transition and E-Mobility,” he vividly explained why modern power electronics plays a central role in the energy and mobility transitions, even though it usually operates behind the scenes. To wrap things up, he even gave the audience some practical tips on how charging a smartphone can contribute, in a small way, to saving the world.

Award Ceremonies

A special highlight was the presentation of the school’s research award to Dr. Elisabeth Schopf. The experimental physicist conducts research at the Center for Particle Physics at the University of Siegen and is a member of the international ATLAS collaboration at CERN. Using high-energy proton-proton collisions at the Large Hadron Collider, she investigates the fundamental building blocks of matter. Her focus is on the precise measurement of the Higgs boson’s interactions with quarks. Through her research, she contributes to a better understanding of the fundamental structures of our universe.

In addition to excellent research, outstanding teaching was also recognized. Students in the School of Science and Technology selected Prof. Dr. Gregor Nickel from the Department of Mathematics and Prof. Dr. Maria Brehm from the Department of Chemistry and Biology as the recipients of the 2026 Teaching Award. The student laudatory speeches by Emine Canpolat and Marc Zajonz made it clear why both are so highly regarded by their students.

Students were also honored for their achievements with the Alumni Graduate Award: For the Computer Science program, Eric Stepping accepted his certificate from Pawel Malicki, Chair of the ETI ALUMNI Association.

Awards and Closing Ceremony

Host Markus Krczal (WDR) guided the audience through the varied program. Through brief conversations during the certificate presentations, he coaxed the graduates into sharing many interesting and entertaining stories from their everyday student life. On behalf of the Schools, he also thanked the sponsors SIEGNIA, Westenergie, Uponu, and INVERS, who provided financial support for the event.

The celebration concluded in a relaxed atmosphere at the champagne reception that followed. Together, everyone toasted the milestones achieved, shared memories of their time as students, and made plans for the future. It was a fitting conclusion to a day marked by academic success, personal dedication, and new perspectives.