Christmas time is a season of wonder, miracles and nostalgia. The perfect time to snuggle up and read some fairy tales or watch some fairy tale films again. But how well do you actually know the famous stories by the brothers Grimm? Christina Sanchez-Stockhammer, professor of English and Digital Linguistics at Chemnitz University of Technology, wants to find out what speakers of the English language remember about some of the most famous fairy tales. For example, what does the evil queen in “Snow White” ask when she wants to know if she looks good? That’s why Sanchez-Stockhammer has launched a brief anonymous survey. It only takes a few minutes to complete and is available in English and German.

“But please don't look anything up! We are interested in what you remember spontaneously, and there are no right or wrong answers,” explains the linguist. “This will help us identify the most widely known English versions.” The results of the survey will be shared in publicly accessible formats – for example on Sanchez-Stockhammer’s podcast “Linguistics Behind the Scenes”.

Survey URL: https://www.mytuc.org/grimm

For any questions, please get in touch with Prof. Christina Sanchez-Stockhammer, tel. +49 (0)371 531-32444, email christina.sanchez@phil.tu-chemnitz.de.

By the title „Don’t gamble Europa away! – Without the EU, Germany is a midget”, the long-experienced European parliamentarian Elmar Brok delivers in his book of the same title, published jointly with the journalist and biographer Peter Köpf, a warning: In a period of growing dangers by extremist tendencies, an anxious political center, emerging nationalisms and egoisms as well as external-political hotspots in the right neighborhood, a strong European Union capable of acting is, for national interest alone, of crucial importance for Germany. From those aspects, the authors derive concrete propositions for transition to more capability for acting, transparency, democracy and rule of law within the European Union. In addition, the book deals also with the political and economic consequences of the Trum/MusK-era.

Elmar Brok will read from this bestseller on March 25, 2025 at the IdeenReich in the University Library of Chemnitz University of Technology, Straße der Nationen 33. Subsequently, the audience may, moderated by PD Dr. Antje Nötzold, scientific staff member at the Professorship for International Relations at Chemnitz University of Technology and currently visiting professor at TU Dresden, start into a conversation dealing with the elaboration and its late-breaking political topic. The event starts at 6 pm. The reading is organized by the University Library jointly with the Chemnitz branch office of the Saxon Center for Political Education, the European Movement Saxony as well as the Union for Europe Saxony. The participation is free. A prior registration is not required.

Concerning the authors of the book „Don’t gamble Europa away! – Without the EU, Germany is a midget“:

Elmar Brok is a former German politician and Vice-President of Centrist Democrat International. From 1980 to 2019, he was member of the European Parliament and acted from 1999 until 2007 and from 2012 to 2017 as Chairman of the Committee of Foreign Affairs. He used to be Co-Chairman of the PPE-ministers for foreign affairs and member of the meetings of the PPE-heads of government in the run-up to EU-summits (European Council) for 20 years as well as member of the federal board of the CDU. Due to his expertise, the British daily paper „The Guardian” awarded to him the title “Master of the EUniverse”.

Peter Köpf is a journalist and author with comprehensive experience in political reporting and biographic literature. He elaborated several biographies, such as “The maverick Kurt Biedenkopf”, “Stoiber”, “The Burdas” and “The Mommsens”. Until 2021, he headed as editor-in-chief – jointly with the editor Theo Sommer – the international publications of the publisher Times Media, among them The Atlantic Times, The German Times and The Security Times.

Further information regarding events in the University Library: mytuc.org/gpvz

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

What is the ‘Nischel’? How often was Karl Marx in Chemnitz? Which famous actor graduated from high school in Chemnitz? Which landmark inspired the shape of the ‘Fit’ dishwashing liquid bottle? These and more than 70 other quiz questions about the city's culture, history and sights were devised by students and staff at the Department of English and American Studies at Chemnitz University of Technology, so as to familiarise visitors with the 2025 European Capital of Culture in an entertaining way using a smartphone app – anywhere in the world, in English or German.

“The quiz is a level of the adventure learning app ‘Bridge of Knowledge’, which we developed to add a bit of fun and excitement to learning,” says Christina Sanchez-Stockhammer, Professor of English and Digital Linguistics at Chemnitz University of Technology. The aim of the game is to cross a virtual rope bridge by correctly answering ten multiple-choice questions in a row. “Otherwise you fall into the chasm – but that's actually quite fun, and you float in the air,” says Sanchez-Stockhammer. If a person answers incorrectly, they can learn the right answer and then immediately use their newly acquired knowledge on their next try. “And players with a fear of heights have the option to cross a calm river, without falling,” explains the linguist.

The quiz is for anyone who wants to test or expand their knowledge of Chemnitz in a fun way. The app is available free of charge and ad-free on all Android and iOS devices. If a person plays the game with VR goggles – made of cardboard, for example – they may feel a tickle in their stomach when they fall; similar to the sensation experienced when a person is sitting on a motionless train and feels as if they are moving when it is actually a train on an adjacent track. By tilting and turning their smartphone, users of the app can also play the game without a cardboard viewer.

Information about the app ‘Bridge of Knowledge’: https://www.bridgevr.de  

‘Bridge of Knowledge’ on Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.LMU_LRZ.bridgevr

‘Bridge of Knowledge’ on the Apple App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bridge-of-knowledge-vr/id1552164117

For any questions, please get in touch with Prof. Christina Sanchez-Stockhammer, tel. +49 (0)371 531-32444, email christina.sanchez@phil.tu-chemnitz.de.

In the year 2030, the University Library has turned into a „5D-Library”. This is the objective determined in the strategy of the University Library of Chemnitz University of Technology which she has published now in short version on a website (mytuc.org/xrfv). In this context, “5D” stands for: digital, dynamic, durable, divers and discursive. Within those thematic fields, the University Library has defined 24 measures in total which will be implemented by already established task teams step by step within the next five years.

“Naturally, we do not start at zero but we may rely on a lot of what we already achieved, for example regarding the engagement for Open Science, the promotion of Open Access, the digitization of our collections, the modularization of services and within sustainability” comments Angela Malz, Director of the University Library. And as so-called “Third Place”, the University Library offers, in addition to the place of work and the own home, a variable location of learning and knowledge inviting to relax, to learn, to stay and to participate in a variety of events and which, within the upcoming years, enhances its portfolio by i.a. a Virtual Reading Hall. Complementarily Malz adds: “Within the strategy, however, we start also a lot of other projects, for example in the field of enhanced engagement in internationalization, in dealing with new AR- and AI-technologies in the library sector as well as in our engagement for long-time-archiving.”

All started with the moving of the University Library to the Old Spinning Mill building in the year 2020. With respect to the concentration from three de-centralized to one central library location, the geographic location and the related task, the new functionalities of the building like an exhibition and an event area as well as to the merging to one team, it was decided to jointly also determine a direction for the short-, mid- and long-term development of the Library. In this context, i.a. workshops with all staff members of the University Library were organized who merged to working groups dealing with respective thematic key fields. At the beginning of 2023, a comprehensive survey among its users consisting of students and scholars of Chemnitz University of Technology, non-scientific staff members as well as external users was implemented. Non-users were included as well. The objective consisted on including the internal as well as the external point of view in the strategy development process. “In total, 630 online-surveys were filled in completely and integrated in the evaluation of results for deriving action measures”, Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht, Deputy Director of the University Library, reported.

From this emerged a strategy document comprising of more than 40 pages which was presented in summary to the Library Board of Chemnitz University of Technology in December 2024 and was highly appreciated. The short version of the strategic approaches may now be read on the Library-website mentioned above. “I am very delighted that we completed the strategy development process as scheduled so that we may now, right in time of the year of the Capital of Culture, proceed on our way to a 5D-Library” Malz says. In the mid of the strategy period, a mid-term assessment of the way to the “5D-Library” is envisaged where again adherents of Chemnitz University of Technology and external Library users will be asked for their engagement.

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

Hooray, Chemnitz is now European Capital of Culture! But who knows its predecessors? And who knows that for example last year Bad Ischl, Tartu und Bodø were European Capitals of Culture? Or Essen in 2010 jointly with Pécs and Istanbul? Those who would like to get informed on that comprehensively are welcome to do that from January 17, 2025 on at the University Library of Chemnitz University of Technology, Straße der Nationen 33. Then the special collection comprising around 750 books regarding all European Capitals of Culture since 2000 up to those in this year is provided for usage at the shelves around the reading hall at the 2^nd level resting at this location until December 2025.

A literary travel through more than 50 European Capitals of Culture

By the way, the special collection does not only include titles of older collections of the University Library but also a great number of new books which could have been acquired thanks to funding of the TUCculture2025-program of Chemnitz University of Technology. “I am very delighted that we are able to present this special collection of books right at the time of the official opening of Chemnitz as European Capital of Culture and I would like to express my gratitude to Chemnitz University of Technology for the opportunity to enrich and enhance that special collection by a great number and variety of new books regarding each of the Capitals of Culture”, Angela Malz, Director of the University Library, comments. “I strongly wish that this special collection is not only used by adherents of the University but also by citizens of Chemnitz and beyond as it is a varied mixture of travel and city guides, illustrated and photo books, cultural guides and locally-related literature which normally should offer something adequate for any preferences”, she adds.

“All visitors of the University Library are welcome to browse through the titles presented on their heart’s content. In addition, they have the opportunity to test their geographical knowledge with regard to the Capitals of Culture by placing buttons on a map of Europe which is not really easy for every Capital of Culture”, Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht, Deputy Director of the University Library and initiator of the project, says. In case of interest, registered users of the University Library may also borrow the books of the special collection at the desk at the 1^st level and continue reading at home.

Other books, paintings and handicrafts related to Chemnitz resp. other of the Capitals of Culture are welcome

In addition, all adherents of the University and citizens are welcome to contribute to the particular decoration of the “Capitals of Culture shelves”: “Everyone who would like to donate something particular regarding Chemnitz resp. other Capitals of Culture to the University Library, is cordially invited to give that to the information desk at the 1^st level. Also own paintings and handcrafts related to Chemnitz resp. other Capitals of Culture are welcome. However, as those objects are presented at a public area without special protection, the University Library may not assume any liability for them”, Lambrecht quotes.

In case of inquiries, comments or ideas regarding the special collection of Capitals of Culture of the University Library, you are welcome to address to Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht, phone +49 (0)371 531-35679. email wolfgang.lambrecht@bibliothek.tu-chemnitz.de.

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

Which places of democracy do exist in Germany? Is God democratic? And which understanding(s) do we have of democracy by the way and of which value it is for our society? Those and many other questions are answered by a particular read & discuss corner of the University Library (UL) of Chemnitz University of Technology established in the east wing at the ground floor of the Library building. Interested persons may find several books in German and English dealing with the topic of democracy from different points of view. The books may be picked up on-site or being retrieved via a QR-code.

"The compilation of literature in our thematic-oriented book trolley should not only invite for going through the books but the reading corner is also supposed to be a place for democratic share of opinions," quotes University Library Director Angela Malz and adds: "Many books, which may by the way also being borrowed, should serve at starting a discussion – on-site or beyond our Library."

The University Library considers itself not only to be a place of knowledge but also a place for democracy. For this reason, the UL takes part with this particular offer in the initiative "Take Place for Democracy", which was started in May 2024 at Kassel University and is being supported increasingly throughout entire Germany – such as by Chemnitz University of Technology. The main objective of this initiative consists on finding appropriate places for starting a dialogue with each other and for enhancing a democratic debating culture. It is particularly intended to listen to each other, to respect each other, to tolerate opposite opinions in order to explore shared and differing ideas. This initiative complements the campaign STAND TOGETHER #TUCgether, by which the University engages for our liberal democratic constitution, for peacefully living together as well as for tolerance, diversity and cosmopolitanism.

They lie dormant in the closed-shelves-area of the University Library and may exclusively be used in digital form or on-site due to reasons of protection and conservation: The books of the “Historical Collections” of the University Library, meaning elaborations published in the year 1900 or earlier in general.

Now, so-called “gems” of those collections are presented to the public in even two events: At first, an exhibition of those particular elaborations will be opened on the occasion of the “World Book Day” at April 23, 2024 at the first level of the University Library Building, Straße der Nationen 33. Groups from five persons on may make use of the opportunity to book a guided tour through the exhibition upon prior appointment. Respective requests may be submitted to Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht, Deputy University Library Director, from April 23, 2024 on. The exhibition, providing explanations in German as well as in English, may be visited until the beginning of the upcoming winter term.

In addition, on the occasion of the “Long Night of Sciences“ within the TUCday at April 27, 2024, more “treasures” of the “Historical Collections” and of the University Archives Collections are presented from 6 pm to 9 pm at the Reading Hall on the second level.

“I am very delighted that those historical treasures, normally rather hided due to understandable conservational reasons, are uncovered now and made accessible for the interested public”, comments Angela Malz, University Library Director. “I may only recommend to profit from both offers as different exhibits are presented, which, however, in turn also belong together. I will not tell more than that”, she continues with a promising smile.

For further information, you are welcome to contact Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht, phone: 0371-531-35679; email: wolfgang.lambrecht@bibliothek.tu-chemnitz.de.

Together with members of the university, graduates, and local residents, the pre-Christmas season will be celebrated - a cherished tradition at Chemnitz University of Technology. On December 6, 2023, the TUC Christmas Market will take place on the square and in the foyer of the Central Lecture Hall and Seminar Building at Reichenhainer Straße 90. All visitors can experience a colorful program from 12:00 to 20:00. The TU Big Band and the University Choir will provide musical accompaniment for the day. The choir of the campus kindergarten "Krabbelkäfer" will also have its big performance and put together a colorful Christmas program. Younger guests of the TUC Christmas Market can look forward to a crafting street. With AOK Plus, Christmas baubles can be decorated on site. There is also the opportunity to prove yourself in a virtual snowball fight at a virtual reality station. The Techniker Krankenkasse offers a Christmas photo activity. Once again this year, there will be carriage rides across the campus.

At the TUC Christmas Market, student initiatives and central facilities of Chemnitz University of Technology will also present themselves. The Studentenwerk Chemnitz-Zwickau and Le Parisien (restaurant run by TUC alumnus Mohamed Amine Bani from Tunisia) invite you to enjoy Christmas treats and mulled wine.

From TUC Candle Arches to TUC Christmas Baubles

Those who still need a warm piece of clothing for the cold days can take a look directly at the Unishop stand. The Unishop has also expanded its Christmas range: In addition to the TUC candle arches with the Böttcher-Bau motif, the shop will also offer high-quality TUC Christmas baubles made of glass. These will be available from December 6, 2023, at the TUC Christmas Market, in the Unishop, and at the Universitas bookstore. Until December 5, 2023, the TUC Christmas baubles can be pre-ordered in the online shop via email at unishop@tu-chemnitz.de. With the early bird discount of 15 percent, they cost 5.00 euros instead of 5.90 euros per piece.

Further information: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/weihnachtsmarkt

Contact: Julita Schmidt, Event Organization and Merchandising Department, tel. 0371 531-11111, email event@tu-chemnitz.de

A successful start to studies is essential for academic success. To make it easier for the first-semester students at Chemnitz University of Technology to start their studies, an introductory week will take place from October 2 to 6, 2023. During this orientation period (in short: "O-Phase"), students are provided with numerous offers. The newly enrolled students get insights into their respective courses of study, can make initial contacts with their fellow students, and get to know the campus and the city. Registration is required for some events – which can be done on the websites of the respective departments, central institutions, or faculties. A comprehensive overview of the introductory week can be found on the website of the Central Course Guidance Service: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/studentenservice/zsb/start/.

Another guide for the beginning of studies is the brochure "Start Winter Semester 2023/2024". This guide, specifically designed for new students, contains relevant information for a smooth start to their studies. It includes, among other things, a checklist, important contact details for various areas of the university, advisory services, information about the student ID and the annual and cultural ticket, tips for creating a timetable, maps, and many useful links.

An ideal platform for further exchange and networking with the university is available – not only for first-year students – on Facebook, Instagram, X (formerly Twitter), Mastodon and YouTube.

For more information about studying at Chemnitz University of Technology: https://www.studium-in-chemnitz.de

Contact: Central Course Guidance Service of Chemnitz University of Technology, tel. 0371 531-55555, email studienberatung@tu-chemnitz.de

(Author: Mario Steinebach / Translation: Brent Benofsky)

On the occasion of Christopher Street Day (CSD) in Chemnitz on July 29, 2023, the rainbow flag will be hoisted on all eleven flagpoles at Chemnitz University of Technology (TUC). TUC is thereby continuing its campaign #wirsindchemnitz, which was awarded the "Prize for University Communication" in 2019. In doing so, it shows its colors and once again sends a clear message against discrimination and for tolerance, diversity, and cosmopolitanism. This is also symbolized by the commitment of the Senate, University Management, and University Council of TUC to tolerance, diversity, and cosmopolitanism.

TUC has made numerous efforts in recent years to embody diversity. This is evidenced, for example, by the signing of the "Charter of Diversity" in April 2023, the holding of the first Diversity Day on May 23, 2023, and participation in the audit for the "Shaping Diversity" certificate from the Stifterverband für die Deutsche Wissenschaft e.V.

Keyword: Commitment of the Senate, University Management, and University Council of TUC to Tolerance, Diversity, and Cosmopolitanism

TUC is emphatically against discrimination and for tolerance, diversity, and cosmopolitanism. It strives to consistently embody these principles internally and carry them confidently to the outside world. This is also evidenced by the commitment of the Senate, University Management, and University Council of TUC to tolerance, diversity, and cosmopolitanism:

"Chemnitz University of Technology as an educational and research institution offers people from all over the world a home and welcomes them warmly, regardless of where they come from, what religion they belong to, what sexual orientation they have, or what form of coexistence they choose.

From this conviction, we wish not only on the university campus but also beyond it, a climate that is open to the world and characterized by acceptance. Therefore, we oppose statements and actions that contradict this concern, especially racist, extreme right-wing, or even openly radical right-wing positions. We emphatically call on all people in positions of responsibility in politics, business, society, and culture to continue to fight for an open and discrimination-free society and to stand up for the basic values of a free, democratic, and open society!"

More information on Chemnitz Christopher Street Day: https://csd-chemnitz.de

Summer temperatures, tasty meals, refreshing drinks and a special party location: this was offered by the 4th TUCsommernacht on July 1, 2023. Approximately 1,800 guests experienced a special evening in an atmospheric setting in the courtyard of the Böttcher-Bau of Chemnitz University of Technology (TUC). Among them were many TUC graduates who had participated in the graduation ceremony in the afternoon on the Chemnitz Theaterplatz and wanted to celebrate their graduation with the TUC family afterwards. Some guests also traveled from the surrounding area, including students from Mittweida, Leipzig, Dresden, Merseburg and Halle.

Various music and culinary offers provided a relaxed atmosphere until around midnight. For the first time, DJs and music lovers from the university put on the records that evening. The new Vice President for Research and University Development of TUC, Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel, showed her musical side and played some of her favorite titles. Anyone who wanted could also swing their hips to the beat of DJ Ingwer and Prof. Dr. Matthias Niedobitek, head of the Professorship of European Integration with a focus on European Administration. Giuseppe Sanseverino, a research associate at the Professorship of Sports Equipment and Technology, and Prof. Dr. Bertolt Meyer, head of the Professorship of Work, Organizational, and Economic Psychology of TUC, provided musical enjoyment. Not to be missed in a celebration of the TUC family were the DJs of the TUC students' parties, such as DJ Psysky - better known at TUC as Aakash Sahu, technical assistant at the Professorship of Textile Technologies. And the electronic open-air music of OELV and DJ Serotoni heated up the courtyard. DJ Serotoni alias Antonin Fischer, TUC graduate of the course Sensors and Cognitive Psychology, proved his multi-talented skills that day, as he had already enriched the program of the graduation ceremony with a humorous speech in the afternoon.

Anyone who wanted could take a dance break at several game tables in the Alter Heizhaus or take fun souvenir photos at the photo box. You could refuel at the Tian Thai food truck, at the Le Parisien stand, and at the Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Services grill stand. The TK cocktail bar, the AOK smoothie bike, the cocktail bar of the student club "PEB Studentenkeller" and the stands of "Party Querbeet" provided the drinks.

Even when a little rain set in late in the evening, the courtyard of TUC vibrated from the full bass and dancing guests who wanted to enjoy the TUCsommernacht until around midnight.

(Author: Mario Steinebach / Translation: Brent Benofsky)

On July 1, 2023, the TUCsommernacht of Chemnitz University of Technology is experiencing a new edition. The start is from 6 pm (Admission: 5:30 pm) in the courtyard of the Böttcher-Bau, Straße der Nationen 62.

For the first time, DJs and music lovers from the university are playing on two floors this evening. The new Vice President for Research and University Development, Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel, will show her musical side. If you wish, you can also dance to the beat of DJ Ingwer and Prof. Dr. Matthias Niedobitek, head of the Professorship of European Integration with a focus on European Administration. Giuseppe Sanseverino, research assistant at the Professorship of Sports Equipment and Technology, and Prof. Dr. Bertolt Meyer, head of the Professorship of Work, Organizational, and Economic Psychology at Chemnitz University of Technology, provide musical enjoyment. DJs from TUC student parties, such as DJ Psysky, are a must at a TUC family celebration. And the electronic open-air music from OELV and DJ Serotoni will certainly also create a great atmosphere.

All members and affiliates of Chemnitz University of Technology as well as all other interested parties are invited to the TUCsommernacht. Students and employees of TUC upon presentation of an updated TUC-Card as well as graduates of the university who participated in the graduation ceremony will receive free admission. For other guests, the ticket to the TUCsommernacht at the box office costs 7.50 euros (reduced 5.00 euros for pupils, apprentices who are not learning a profession at TUC, students of other universities as well as severely disabled people who are not working at TUC and their accompanying persons).

Signature food and drink offers

• Barbecue of the Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union
• Beer garden
• Food truck from Tian Thai
• Crêpes and sweet UFO burgers by Le Parisien (restaurant run by Chemnitz University of Technology graduate Mohamed Amine Bani from Tunisia)
• Smoothie cart
• Cocktail bar of the student club PEB Studentenkeller

Event homepage (including reviews): https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/tu/veranstaltungen/tucsommernacht/index.html.en

For further information about TUCsommernacht, please contact the Event Management and Merchandising department, e-mail event@tu-chemnitz.de.

(This article is continuously updated. Last change: June 22, 2023)

(Article: Mario Steinebach / Translation: Brent Benofsky)

Subsequent to the pandemic-related “silent move” of the University Library of Chemnitz University of Technology to its new building and the opening on October 1, 2020, on June 28, 2023 – meaning exactly 1.000 days later – the great celebration happens. The University Library takes the opportunity of its 1.000-days-jubilee at its new location at the “Old Spinning Mill” to invite not only the members and adherents of Chemnitz University of Technology but also all citizens of Chemnitz and beyond to join. The celebration is supported by the new neighbors: Thus, the Chemnitz Arts Collections as well as the culture and arts center “Weltecho” contribute offers to the program. Partners from the Brühl nearby will take care for creature comfort and contribute offers for children.

From 2 pm on, a broad program including trips through time and books for take-away via an exhibition, an “interactive Magic Book” and “Rare University Library Treasures” up to a wheel of fortune and a library quiz, where prizes may be gained, attends the visitors. In addition, every hour within the period from 4 pm to 7 pm guided tours through the new Library building are offered. The background music is provided from 5 pm on by the Stollberg City Band and from 7 pm on by the band “Solche”.

However, the event offers are not limited to the University Library building. In fact, also the neighboring Chemnitz Arts Collections participate. In case of interest, from 2 pm on visitors may take part at a rally between the University Library and the Arts Collections. In the building of the Arts Collections may for instance images being puzzled, own artworks being stamped as well as new things from leftover wallpaper being created. Furthermore, there is offered the opportunity to join guided tours as well through current exhibitions every hour within the period from 3 pm to 7 pm. The event offers of the University Library as well as of Chemnitz Arts Collections are free of costs.  

After the end of the celebration events at 9 pm, the ones who want may continue the evening in the “Weltecho” with cool drinks and music by changing DJs and from 11 pm on may dance into the new day during the “Wednesday Party”.

For the entire event program please visit the “1.000 days”-website of the University Library (https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/ub/aktuell/1000tage.html). As it will be continuously updated, it is worth a look at it from time to time.

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

The first Diversity Day at Chemnitz University of Technology (TUC) on May 23, 2023, was dedicated to listening and connecting. At various stands, students, staff, and other visitors in the Fresh Cube of the canteen on the Reichenhainer Straße Campus could converse with TUC representatives about what makes diversity and how it can be lived and shaped at the university.

Those interested were invited to give their ideas, impressions, and suggestions for diversity at TUC using three questions on the back of a diversity card. More than 200 responses were received, which Susann Preiß, research assistant in the Shaping Diversity audit, was very pleased about: "I am very happy about the many responses, which we will now evaluate and incorporate into the diversity process." 

Also, conversation partners from various areas were ready to exchange with students and staff.

On site, in addition to Susann Preiß were:

•          Emily Hähnel, representative of the Anti-discrimination Office of the StuRa

•          Frank Hohaus, Chairman of the Staff Council

•          Karla Kebsch, Women's and Equal Opportunities Officer

•          Dr. Benny Liebold, Head of the International Office

•          Dr. Daniela Menzel, Coordinator for Inclusion

•          Juliane Siemer, employee of the Central Course Guidance Service

Simon Asare from Ghana, who studies in the master's program "Information and Communication Systems" at Chemnitz University of Technology, for example, discussed the topic with them.

He vividly described the difficult situation in his home country and the opportunities offered to him by an internationally oriented university like Chemnitz University of Technology. The change of perspective, which arises through intercultural exchange is crucial: "In Europe, Africa, and Asia, there are very different cultures. I think diversity is important because it can give rise to the solutions of tomorrow. We need to meet the complex challenges that await us with diversity," says Asara.

Michael Sanne, research assistant at the Professorship of Vehicle System Design at TUC, advocated for respectful interaction in everyday life so that everyone can feel seen and contribute to the best of their ability. However, Sanne also made a limitation clear: "For me, diversity means that everyone can live out their personality, but only up to the limits each other."

Similarly, student Jana Mündel, who studies in the Public Health master's program at TUC, said: "For me, diversity means equality and participation – so togetherness instead of opposition," said Mündel. She further clarified that she wishes for more offers and visibility for the diversity topic spectrum.

At the end of the first Diversity Day, Susann Preiß summed up: "I think we have created a very good offer with the first event of this kind, so that those interested could deal with the topic of diversity in conversation with stakeholders of Chemnitz University of Technology." In the spirit of this day, very different experiences and feedback have come together: "We have gotten an impression of how differently the topic of diversity affects students and staff, and are now going back to work with valuable feedback, also thanks to the many responses on our diversity cards," says Preiß.

Keyword: Diversity Day and Dimensions of Diversity

The initiative of Chemnitz University of Technology is inspired by the German Diversity Day, to which the Charter of Diversity calls once a year for a nationwide day of action, on which companies and institutions put the idea of diversity in the spotlight. The seven core dimensions of diversity in the Charter of Diversity are age, ethnic origin and nationality, gender and gender identity, physical and mental abilities, religion and worldview, sexual orientation, and social origin.

If you love film music and musical melodies, you should make a note of June 8, 2023. On this day, the Würzburg Project Orchestra will come to the campus of the Chemnitz University of Technology. At 7:30 p.m., the concert of the Bavarian ensemble, which is mainly composed of pupils and students, will begin in room N115 of the Central Lecture Hall Building, Reichenhainer Straße 90. Admission begins at 7 p.m. Admission is free for the event organized by the Mechanical Engineering Student Council of the Chemnitz University of Technology.

The project orchestra has already performed six times at the Chemnitz University of Technology and has always been very well received. After a break of several years, the musical bridge-building between Bavaria and Saxony will be repeated again this year. This year, like the times before, it will not be revealed in advance which pieces will be played.

For information on this event and on the Würzburg Project Orchestra: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/fsrmb/veranstaltungen.php; https://www.projektorchester.de/

Students of the Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Chemnitz University of Technology are very satisfied with several aspects of their studies. This is also confirmed by the latest ranking of the Center for Higher Education Development (CHE), which was published on May 9, 2023, in the new Study Guide 2023/2024 of the weekly newspaper Die Zeit and in their new online portal HeyStudium. More than 300 higher education institutions were reviewed by CHE. This year, the subjects offered at Chemnitz University of Technology, including Business Administration, Economics, Business Administration and Engineering, and Business Information Systems, were also analyzed.

Chemnitz University of Technology receives excellent ratings in the subjects of Business Administration, Business Administration and Engineering, and Business Information Systems, especially in the category "Support at the Beginning of Studies". In the CHE ranking, Business Information Systems is also ranked among the top group in the category "Graduations in a Reasonable Time" for master's students. In Business Administration and Engineering, bachelor students particularly praise the contact with professional practice. Study organization and library facilities are highly rated by students of Business Administration. Furthermore, in the subjects of Business Administration and Economics, Chemnitz University of Technology also ranks at the top in the category "Doctorates per Professorship."

For a comprehensive overview of studying in Chemnitz, the updated landing page "Studying in Chemnitz" is recommended. This web portal aims to pique the interest of prospective students in Chemnitz University of Technology, accompany them on their way into studying, and support them at the start of their studies. Helpful information and tips about the decision to study, the start of studies and beyond are bundled here. Additionally, Chemnitz University of Technology invites prospective students to the "Open House Day" on June 3, 2023, where they can receive comprehensive advice about studying in Chemnitz.

Overview of other ranking results and awards since 2022:

• Chemnitz University of Technology ranked 3rd in the StudyCheck.de ranking of the most popular universities in Germany

Chemnitz University of Technology achieved top placements in the online review portal StudyCheck.de, both in the ranking "Most Popular Universities 2023" (3rd place nationwide, 1st place in East Germany) and in the "Digital Readiness Live-Ranking" (1st place among universities nationwide, as of 19.01.2023). The ranking is based on the evaluation of about 80,000 reviews from more than 500 German higher education institutions.

• Chemnitz University of Technology scores in the CHE Ranking 2022 for master's programs

With its master's degree offerings in the subjects of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Mechanical Engineering, and Psychology, Chemnitz University of Technology scored points in the latest ranking for master's programs by the Center for Higher Education Development (CHE). In the subject of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, Chemnitz University of Technology offers master's students excellent contact with professional practice. The subject also reached the top group due to a high number of citations of its researchers' publications. Mechanical Engineering master's students particularly praised the study organization. The subject of psychology scored high among master's students for support during their studies. A top ranking was also achieved in Mechanical Engineering for research funding per researcher.

• Students give Chemnitz University of Technology very good ratings in the CHE Ranking 2022

Chemnitz University of Technology receives many excellent ratings in the latest CHE Ranking, particularly in the subject of Psychology. Chemnitz students appreciate the support from teaching staff, assistance during their studies, and the range of courses offered in this subject. The fact that an undergraduate degree can be completed in a reasonable amount of time is also positively assessed by psychology students. According to the CHE survey, students in the study programs of the Faculties of Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering and Information Technology receive excellent support at the beginning of their studies, just like the students in Psychology. The university library, the equipment of the practical labs, and the contact with professional practice during the master's program in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology are also rated very positively by the students. In the subject of German Studies, the study organization is particularly praised. Mechanical Engineering achieves a top position in research funding per researcher, as well as in the facilities and in the diploma program in Mechanical Engineering in the category "Contact with Professional Practice". Publications by researchers in Electrical Engineering and Information Technology are frequently cited.

(Article: Mario Steinebach / Translation: Brent Benofsky)

The international conference on “Making the City: Transformative Processes in (Post)Industrial Urban Spaces” will take place in Chemnitz from 29 June to 1 July 2023. In the words of its organisers, Prof Cecile Sandten, Chair of English Literatures and Prof. Dr. Stefan Garsztecki, Professor in Cultural and Area Studies of East Central Europe both at the Chemnitz University of Technology: “The central idea of the conference on ‘Making the City’, is to explore the cultural, economic and political factors of industrialisation from its start to its ‘finish’ from a diachronic perspective and also focus on an active engagement of citizens in urban transformation processes”.

The Industrial Revolution, which approximately started in England in 1770 and spread to other European cities and innovation hubs before finally taking root in the United States and the British Empire’s colonies in the middle of the 19th century, was marked by “progress, expansion, and mobility”. Societies underwent profound cultural and economic transformations that impinged on all facets of human life, particularly on city dwellers toiling long hours dictated by the clock. Chemnitz, known as the ‘Rußstadt’ or the ‘Manchester of Saxony’, also witnessed this dramatic turn of history, its inhabitants confronting significant social, cultural, and economic changes during this period.

Keeping this connection in mind, the conference has been designed to take place at several historically significant locations in Chemnitz, providing a unique setting for exploring the enduring effects of industrialization on modern society. The conference will delve into a range of compelling topics, including the challenges of preserving industrial heritage and the collective memory of cities as well as the need for extensive restructuring of the local and regional economy and architecture in the context of urban reorientations. The discussions will also focus on key concerns such as gender, ownership, creative spirit, and alternative approaches to “Making the City”.

A distinguished line-up of keynote speakers who are internationally recognized experts in their respective academic fields, has been arranged by the conference organisers. Among the keynote speakers are Dr. Lieven Ameel, Senior Lecturer in Comparative Literature at the University of Tampere in Finland; Professor Daniel Dubowitz, Chair of Architecture at Manchester Metropolitan University in England; and Dr. Daniela Zupan, Junior Professor for European Cities and Urban Heritage at the Bauhaus University in Weimar.

The objective of the conference goes beyond fostering connections between various fields such as European Studies, English Literature, Sociology, Political Science, and Urban Planning. It strives to facilitate an exchange among professionals ranging from academics, curators, designers, and artists to the general public. Additionally, the conference aims to initiate a dialogue with the city of Chemnitz, providing the theoretical basis for the exhibition “European Manchesters” scheduled to be displayed at the Chemnitz Museum of Industry as part of “Chemnitz as European Capital of Culture 2025”.

There will be an author-reading event open to the public on June 29, 2023 at 19, at the Open Space, Brückenstraße 11. This event will feature two poets hailing from Manchester, Antony Rowland and Shamsad Khan, whose creative works explore their city, Manchester and its inhabitants' multifarious identities.

The conference is funded by the German Research Foundation (DFG).

Here you can find the homepage of the conference: www.makingthecity.tu-chemnitz.de

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Cecile Sandten, professor for English Literatures, phone +49 (0)371 531-37353, e-mail cecile.sandten@phil.tu-chemnitz.de and Prof. Dr. Stefan Garsztecki, professur for Cultural and Area Studies of East Central Europe, phone +49 (0)371 531-38385, e-mail stefan.garsztecki@phil.tu-chemnitz.de.

(Author: Julia Walter, Translation: Dr. Indrani Karmakar)

The Abitur is in hand - and now to study at the Chemnitz University of Technology! But which course of study is right for me? Which requirements do I have to fulfill? What can I experience in my free time in Chemnitz, the European Capital of Culture 2025, besides studying? These and many other questions will be answered at the University Information Day on June 11, 2022 in the new University Library of Chemnitz University of Technology in the heart of the city. The Central Course Guidance Service, numerous subject advisors as well as student initiatives and specialist groups will be on hand to answer questions and give prospective students an insight into student life in Chemnitz. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., there will be a lot of useful information at the information booths of all faculties and in lectures - not only about the 97 bachelor, master, diploma and teaching degree programs of Chemnitz University of Technology. Information will also be provided on internships, career prospects, financing studies, living on campus and studying abroad.

Multiple award-winning university library as central event venue

"We are delighted to be able to welcome the students in person to our newly renovated library building and have also planned guided tours for them so that they can get to know this special place of learning even better," says Susann Kappler from the TUCdiscover team, which is playing a key role in organizing the day. "Guests at the University Information Day will also be able to see for themselves the impressive design of the historical industrial building at Straße der Nationen 33, which has already won two architecture awards in recent months," adds her colleague Monique Reuther.

Sporty, tasteful and surprising

On the forecourt of the university library, you can also engage in sports during the five-hour "info marathon" or strengthen yourself with a snack at the stand of the Chemnitz-Zwickau Student Union, with smoothies or with ice cream scoops in Chemnitz University of Technology colors. By the way, the first 300 ice cream scoops are free of charge. In addition, all prospective students will receive a TUC surprise bag. The event will be supported musically by Radio UNiCC.

Mechanical engineering experience route has 17 stations

Those who would like to experience the study contents of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in particular can gain insights into the diverse world of mechanical engineering at 17 stations on the campus on Reichenhainer Straße from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. - from virtual technologies to offers for do-it-yourself production to numerous demonstrations such as the printed loudspeakers, a varied program will be offered.

Orientation guide on the net

If you would like to find out about the 97 bachelor's, master's, diploma and teaching degree programs at Chemnitz University of Technology beforehand, you should click through the new study opportunities website. Further information on the study programs as well as on various topics concerning the choice of studies can be found here: https://www.study-in-chemnitz.com.

Program of the University Information Day at a glance

Anyone who wants to hear, see and ask as many questions as possible on June 11 should put together an individual program beforehand. It is worth taking a look online, where the complete program of the university information day TUCdiscover will be published on https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/tuctag. Those wishing to participate in program events on the campus on Reichenhainer Straße should allow about 30 minutes for the change of location from the university library. The streetcar connects both venues directly.

For further information, please contact the staff of the TUCdiscover project, Monique Reuther, e-mail monique.reuther@verwaltung.tu-chemnitz.de, and Susann Kappler, e-mail susann.kappler@verwaltung.tu-chemnitz.de.

Contact the Central Student Guidance Service of Chemnitz University of Technology: phone +49 (0) 371 531-55555, e-mail studienberatung@tu-chemnitz.de

(Note: This message from Mai 19 is continuously updated by the TUCdiscover team. Last update: June 2)

(Translation: Brent Benofsky)

The opportunities for usage of the University Library of Chemnitz University of Technology are significantly enhanced from May 2022 on in comparison to the time before. 350 persons may stay on all levels of the building at the same time. This applies to members and adherents of Chemnitz University of Technology as well as to all other users. Currently, the doors of the University Library are open from Monday to Saturday from 09:00 am until 07:00 pm. From May 30 on, the Library opens until midnight. The workplaces at the Library may be used without reservation. And also events, guided tours and trainings are possible for a maximum number of 20 participants. “Our University Library is now able to be what it ever would have liked to be from its relocation on – a knowledge and service provider but also a vibrant location of communication, of meeting and interaction as well as of culture in the heart of Chemnitz”, quotes Angela Malz, Director of the University Library.

However, some protection measures still have to be observed – among them the mandatory wearing of a FFP2-mask and the regulations on distance keeping. “In order to assure the compliance with the maximum number of persons permitted to be in the building at the same time, we would like to kindly ask our users to take a counting card when entering the building and to drop it in a box provided for that purpose when leaving the Library”, says Malz. Along with the raising of the total number of persons being in the building, the cleaning scheme is intensified. “Recently cleaned workplaces are designated by a respective label. Also in this context, we would like to ask the users for their assistance in the way that they turn the label after usage of the workplace so that it can again be cleaned for the following user”, explains the Director.

On Saturdays from noon and from May 30 on at weekdays from 07:00 pm on, the University Library may only be used within a limited scope until closing hour as in those periods the information and lending desks are not staffed and exclusively guarding staff is on-site. “For this reason, registrations as Library users, changes on the user account as well as payment of charges may only be made beyond those periods”, quotes Malz. However, the workplaces, the open-stack collections, the electronic media, several designated computer workstations as well as the multifunctional devices may still be used at that times. In addition, also media may be borrowed via the self-issue devices on the first level resp. being returned via the return machine on the ground floor. Detailed information regarding the current usage opportunities are provided on the website of the University Library. 

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

Machines are booming not only in industry, but also in science, art and culture. For example, the Collaborative Research Center (CRC) Hybrid Societies at Chemnitz University of Technology and the Chemnitz Museum of Industry participated in the now completed 4th Saxon State Exhibition MaschinenBOOM. One format within this exhibition series is the expert forum ForumZUKUNFT to discuss the coexistence of humans and machines. The CRC and the Museum of Industry revive this series and continue it from April 21, 2022 at the Chemnitz Museum of Industry. Admission is free of charge. The current hygiene conditions of the Chemnitz Museum of Industry apply.

Starting at 6 p.m., Prof. Dr. Georg Jahn, head of the Professorship for Geropsychology and Cognition and speaker of the Collaborative Research Center Hybrid Societies at Chemnitz University of Technology, will speak about the not so distant life in hybrid societies. It is about questions of everyday coexistence with autonomous vehicles, remote-controlled and autonomous robots, drones as well as intelligent prostheses. These are topics that the CRC Hybrid Societies is working on in an interdisciplinary manner with the participation of all faculties.

"In the course of our lecture series, we don't just want to inform people about research, we want to get into the conversation and also address expectations, concerns and reservations about autonomous technologies," says Ingmar Rothe, research associate in the CRC's public relations project. “The great thing about this format is that anyone can talk to scientists here who are working at the cutting edge of research,” says Rothe. "The themes are still highly topical, and even though the exhibition is history, we hope to use it to attract many interested people to the Museum of Industry," says Claudia Wasner-Wohlrab, head of public relations at the Museum.

Other lectures in the series:

• May 19, 2022: How will we get around in the future? (Prof. Dr. Josef Krems, head of the Research Group Cognitive and Engineering Psychology at Chemnitz University of Technology)
• September 15: What do we expect from machines? (Prof. Dr. Frank Asbrock, head of the Professorship of Social Psychology at Chemnitz University of Technology)
• October 20: How will we communicate with machines? (Prof. Dr. Ellen Fricke, Professor of German Linguistics and Multimodal Communication at Chemnitz University of Technology)
• November 17: How will machines become a part of us? (Prof. Dr. Bertolt Meyer, head of the Professorship for Work, Organizational and Economic Psychology at Chemnitz University of Technology).

Background: ForumZUKUNFT

The ForumZUKUNFT emerged from the 4th Saxon State Exhibition MaschinenBOOM., which was on display in Chemnitz from 2020 to 2021 and attracted more than 27,500 visitors to the Museum of Industry. Due to the Covid19 pandemic and the associated recurring closures of the museum, the ForumZUKUNFT could not be held in person until now.

Background: Collaborative Research Center Hybrid Societies

Within the framework of the CRC Hybrid Societies at Chemnitz University of Technology, 30 professors from all eight faculties as well as senior researchers at Chemnitz University of Technology are fundamentally investigating how humans can coordinate smoothly and safely with, for example, autonomous vehicles and robots in public spaces. “Hybrid Societies: Interacting with Embodied Digital Technologies” is funded by the German Research Foundation as a Collaborative Research Center. Event information and news from the CRC's research are provided to all those interested quarterly in the Hybrid Societies Newsletter.

(Authors: Matthias Fejes and Ingmar Rothe / Translation: Brent Benofsky)