The annual student survey TUCpanel at Chemnitz University of Technology is open now. The goal of this annual survey is to gain a comprehensive picture of how students perceive their studies, their teaching and learning conditions, and campus life in general.

The results from previous years have already provided valuable input for the continuous improvement of study and teaching at TU Chemnitz. As a result, a number of changes have been initiated in recent years – for example, in exam structures, module descriptions, practical components, and the design of learning and recreational spaces like our common rooms.

To obtain a more precise overview of our student’s experiences TUCpanel 2026 has been further amended. Questions on workload and exam pressure have been updated and made more specific to provide a more accurate representation of your actual study load.

Greater focus on international perspectives

A new set of questions for international students at Chemnitz University of Technology takes into account their specific experiences and challenges, for example regarding language, the organisation of studies or integration. With the help of this expanded questionnaire, the university aims to capture these perspectives even more effectively in order to further improve study conditions for all students. A new Instagram channel for international students has also been launched, offering insights into TUCpanel and the university’s study success initiatives.

In addition, new topics on the university’s external perception and on students’ motivations for choosing Chemnitz University of Technology have been introduced. These insights will help to better understand the factors that influence the decision to study at TU Chemnitz.

Please take part and help us improve university life

Every participant in this survey contributes to further improving the study experience at Chemnitz University of Technology. By sharing their feedback, students can help initiate important changes – for themselves and for future generations of students. Each participation makes an important contribution to continuously improving study conditions at TU Chemnitz. All students are warmly invited to take part!

The survey is open until 15 May 2026. All participants will have the chance to enter a prize draw following the survey.

There are a total of 20 new Chemnitz University of Technology hoodies to be won. Participation in the prize draw is voluntary and takes place via a separate link provided after the survey. This ensures that the anonymity of the responses is maintained at all times.

Further information and contact details:

• Website: www.tu-chemnitz.de/tucpanel
• Contact persons: Anja Ertel, email anja.ertel@rektor.tu-chemnitz.de, and Alica Beckel, email alica.beckel@rektor.tu-chemnitz.de 
• Instagram channel: tucpanel
• Instagram channel for international students: tucpanel.internationals
• Feedback and enquiries:tucpanel@tu-chemnitz.de

(Authors: Alica Beckel, Evamaria Moore)

Since the launch of the European University Alliance „Across – European University for Cross-Border Knowledge Sharing“ in March 2025, Chemnitz University of Technology has been working with nine partner universities across Europe. More than 30 students and staff from TU Chemnitz are involved in 16 international task forces. These teams develop joint strategies in the areas of education, research, innovation, governance, and societal engagement—creating direct added value for the university. Students and staff at TU Chemnitz are now invited to contribute their experiences on 18 and 20 March 2026 and support one of the task teams with their knowledge.

Supporting the task team by collecting valuable user experiences

Task Team 2.1 – „Across Border Campus System“ is responsible for ensuring the interoperability of digital services across all Across universities. At the core of this work is the “Across eCampus”, a digital hub for management, teaching, learning, and networking. In two moderated focus groups, the task team will collect experiences from everyday study and work routines with the university’s digital systems on 18 and 20 March. These insights will feed into the further development of a digital infrastructure designed to facilitate international collaboration and open up new opportunities for education and exchange. Key questions include: Where does access to information and services already work well? Where do barriers arise (e.g., due to scattered information, unclear processes/responsibilities, or parallel tools)? And which improvements would be most important from a user perspective?

Students and staff at TU Chemnitz who would like to contribute to shaping a future-oriented campus system are warmly invited to take part in the focus groups:

• Student focus group: 18 March, 13:00 (duration: 60–90 minutes; venue: Welcome Center, International University Centre (IUZ), Bahnhofstraße 8)
• Staff focus group: 20 March, 10:00 (duration: 60–90 minutes; venue: Welcome Center, International University Centre (IUZ), Bahnhofstraße 8)

Participation requirements and compensation

Students and staff of Chemnitz University of Technology can participate if they are willing to share experiences in a moderated group discussion and provide feedback on the beta version and concept ideas. No technical background is required. Focus group participants will receive 15 EUR compensation, an official certificate of attendance from the Across alliance, and—optionally—the opportunity to be involved in the future as a „premium beta user“ (early access and further feedback opportunities).

To register interest, students and staff are asked to complete a short pre-survey in advance. Based on the responses, eight to ten participants per focus group will be selected to ensure a broad range of perspectives. For students, selection aims to cover different faculties, study programms, and stages of study. For staff, selection will consider different roles as well as experience with various internal digital systems. Anyone who is interested but cannot attend on the scheduled dates can, upon request, be contacted again for the next development phases of the „Across eCampus“.

Links to the pre-survey

• Students (German): www.mytuc.org/bryq
• Students (English): www.mytuc.org/vxjx
• Staff (German): www.mytuc.org/ntfk
• Staff (English): www.mytuc.org/kjqk

Keyword: Across eCampus

The „Across eCampus” is intended as a central digital access point of the Across university alliance to make study- and work-related services easier to use across institutions. This applies in particular to access to course content and learning offers from partner universities, as well as information and services that facilitate international exchange and mobility. In the long term, a dashboard will serve as the central entry point, bundling user-related information and simplifying access to core services. These include, for example, a digital course catalogue and a learning environment for cross-institutional digital and blended-learning formats, as well as collaboration and communication tools. Within the Across alliance’s „eCampus” sub-project, a digital infrastructure is being developed to centrally bundle and integrate existing services rather than replace them.

Background: Across and the eCampus sub-project

The European University Alliance „Across – European University for Cross-Border Knowledge Sharing“, coordinated by TU Chemnitz, promotes the exchange of knowledge, skills, and resources across national and institutional borders. Through innovative cooperation in education, research, administration, and third mission activities, Across aims to strengthen international collaboration and the long-term visibility of its partner universities. Key activities include the development of joint teaching offers and the expansion of mobility opportunities for students and staff. The „Across eCampus“ is a TU Chemnitz-led sub-project and a central building block within the alliance. As a digital infrastructure, it is intended to systematically facilitate access to cross-institutional offers.

Further information: Dr. Daniel Pietschmann, Co-Leader of the Across Task Team „eCampus“, email: daniel.pietschmann@phil.tu-chemnitz.de

On December 22, 2015, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/70/212, establishing the International Day of Women and Girls in Science. Since then, the United Nations, UNESCO, intergovernmental organizations, and numerous institutions from science and civil society have highlighted every year the importance of recognition, participation, and visibility of women in research and science. Despite progress, gender equality remains a major global challenge. Promoting young women, ensuring access to high-quality education, and translating scientific knowledge into practice are key measures to achieve this goal.

At TU Chemnitz, supporting early-career female researchers, strengthening women in leadership positions, and enabling the reconciliation of family, studies, and academic careers are central concerns in an increasingly complex research and work environment. Against this backdrop, TU Chemnitz is aligning with the UN initiative for the third time.

In connection with International Women’s Day on March 8, TU Chemnitz invites female scientists of all career stages, female students and university staff to the 3rd International Women-in-Science Day on March 6, 2026, at the Altes Heizhaus, Straße der Nationen 62, Chemnitz. No registration is required.

Focus Topic: Women’s Health

The 2026 event focuses on women’s health and its relevance for scientific careers, workplace structures, and academic environments. The event provides a platform for interdisciplinary exchange, new perspectives, and the empowerment of women in science.

The hosts of the event are Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel, Vice-Rector for Research and University Development at TU Chemnitz, and Karla Kebsch, Equal Opportunities Officer of TU Chemnitz.

Scientific Lectures and Program

The event opens with a scientific lecture giving psychological perspectives on Menstruation and Mentrual Pain. Further lectures explore the influence of hormonal, physical, and neurological factors on women’s careers and provide practical insights into cycle-oriented nutrition and performance.

A networking break offers space for discussion. In the afternoon, the project TUC_FemAktiv will be officially launched.

The day concludes with “Coffee & Talk”, an informal exchange format in which female students and researchers can connect with the Vice-Rector and the Equal Opportunities Officer, share experiences, discuss research interests, and address individual needs in a relaxed atmosphere.

Program Overview

09:00 a.m.
Welcome
Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel, Vice-Rector for Research and University Development, and Karla Kebsch, Equal Opportunities Officer, TU Chemnitz

09:15 a.m.
Talk (English): Psychological Perspectives on Menstruation and Menstrual Pain – Attitudes, Barriers and Work-Related Outcomes

Dr. Alexandra (Sasha) Cook, University of Amsterdam

10:15 a.m.
Talk (English): Invisible Influences: Hormones, Body, and Brain in Women’s Careers
Dr. Andresa Mara de Castro Germano, HSW, TU Chemnitz

11:15 a.m.
Talk (German): Zyklus-Power freisetzen: Ernährung, die pusht

Jonathan Balkenhol, freelance nutritional scientist

12:00 p.m.
Networking break 

01:00 p.m.
Opening of the project TUC_FemAktiv
Dr. Andresa Mara de Castro Germano, HSW, TU Chemnitz

02:00 p.m.
Coffee & Talk
Informal exchange with Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel and Karla Kebsch

03:00 p.m.
End of the event

(Author: Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel)

On February 5, 2026 from 04:00 pm on, it happens again: The University Library jointly with the University Computer Center, the Foreign Language Center, the Methodological Competence Center of the Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, the Central Course Guidance Service as well as the Student Council, the faculty student bodies and the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau invites again for the “Long Night of Postponed Course Papers”. The concept was adapted to the demands of the students. Thus, this year is provided the opportunity to book in advance individual time slots of 20 minutes for consultation with the respective consultant at the information booths according to the own time planning and orienting at the personal inquiries and needs via OPAL (mytuc.org/gsxv). The information booths provide their offers at the west wing at the ground floor of the Library Building until 10:00 pm.

In order to create the best conditions for finally complete the course paper, also sufficient opportunities for relaxing are provided: Thus, at 05:45 pm and at 08:00 pm a “break for moving” of respectively 15 minutes is offered at the east wing at the ground floor and within the period from 06:00-08:00 pm four times yoga and relaxing exercises of respectively 20 minutes (in the IdeenReich). From 07:00-09:00 pm, twelve time slots for “speed massages” of respectively ten minutes are provided. Those are allocated from 05:00 pm on at the information booth of the Student Union – first come, first serve! For the “breaks for moving” as well as for the yoga and relaxing exercises on the contrary, no prior registration is required. Thanks to the Student Union, also food and beverages are provided.

The event is rounded off by a keynote speech of Sofie Marie Götz of the Junior Professorship Sociology with Specialization in Technology dealing with the topic “Apply Generative AI (right) within studies” in the IdeenReich.

Subsequently, from 10:00 pm on, the course paper may be elaborated – this time, however, not only until midnight but all around the clock as until February 14, 2026 midnight, the University Library stays open 24/7 for the first time and thus fulfills a wish frequently expressed by its users. Consequently, not only the “course paper authors” but all students are cordially invited to extensively make use of this offer and crowd the University Library also during the night within the period mentioned. Please observe to bring with you your TUCcard as you will need it for getting in the Library Building within the time from midnight to 09:00 am by presenting it to a scanning device next to the main entrance.

Detailed information regarding the “Long Night of Postponed Course Papers”: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/ub/aktuell/veranstaltungen/landah.html.en

A stay abroad allows you to acquire new knowledge and skills and expand your social, cultural and professional competencies. Students at Chemnitz University of Technology can choose from exchange places at more than 200 partner universities in 30 countries as part of the Erasmus+ programme.

Anyone who would like to spend a semester abroad with the Erasmus+ programme in the winter semester 2026/27 or summer semester 2027 should now apply to their department for an exchange place at an Erasmus+ partner institution of the department. The online application for participation in the Erasmus+ programme must be submitted to the International University Centre (IUZ) at Chemnitz University of Technology by 31 March 2026. Further information is available online.

Erasmus+ offers a lot

A semester abroad with Erasmus+ has many advantages: the stay can be financially supported, there are no tuition fees at the host university, and the recognition of credits earned abroad and extensive organisational support are also advantages. The monthly funding rates of €600 or €540 are supplemented by a travel allowance and possible additional funding of €250 per month for students with children, physical disabilities, from non-academic backgrounds or in employment.

The IUZ supports Erasmus+ students before, during and after their stay. Numerous counselling and support services, preparatory meetings and intercultural training courses complement the stay at the ‘dream study location’. In addition, the IUZ is in contact with many partner universities and is available as a contact point at all times to ensure that the semester abroad is an unforgettable experience.

For further information please contact: Oliver Sachs, phone: +49 (0)371/531-37972, E-Mail: oliver.sachs@iuz.tu-chemnitz.de

A special highlight of the winter semester is the 12th “Tag des wissenschaftlichen Nachwuchses” at Chemnitz University of Technology (TUC). The Centre for Junior Scientists (ZfwN) cordially invites all interested participants to join the event on 11 November 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., in the Central Lecture and Seminar Building, Reichenhainer Straße 90. The event is aimed at prospective doctoral candidates, doctoral researchers, postdocs, supervisors, and all other interested persons. Participation is free of charge, but online registration is requested. This year’s event is held under the theme “Academic Qualification in the Age of AI”. It offers various insights into the opportunities and challenges that artificial intelligence brings to research, teaching, and career development.

Program and Key Topics

The day will begin at 10:30 a.m. with an “Opening and Moderated Talk with Early-Career Scientists”, in which young researchers will share insights into their doctoral experiences. The session will conclude with Prof. Frank Asbrock, Ombudsperson for Good Scientific Practice, who will highlight key aspects of responsible conduct in research.

During the Networking Break (12:30–2:00 p.m.), participants will have the opportunity to exchange ideas with representatives from various faculties and other university institutions and to establish new contacts.

In the afternoon, the session from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. will focus on the main theme: “Wissenschaftliche Qualifikation im KI-Zeitalter – Chancen, Herausforderungen und Perspektiven”.

After a short Break (3:30–4:00 p.m.), two parallel sessions will follow from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m.:

• The PhD Journey from Different Perspectives – with Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel (Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences) and Prof. Dr. Martin Wagner (Faculty of Mechanical Engineering)
• Postdoc Roundtable: Sharing Experiences – an open discussion format for postdoctoral researchers from various disciplines.

The event will be held in both German and English. Each session will be conducted in the language of its respective presentation title.

Further information and the registration link are available online at: https://mytuc.org/tztm

Stay Informed

The ZfwN newsletter provides regular updates on current workshops, events, and news related to doctoral studies, career planning, and academic development. Interested persons can subscribe online.

For questions, feedback, or suggestions regarding the continuing education program or the “Tag des wissenschaftlichen Nachwuchses”, the ZfwN team is happy to assist.

Contact: Centre for Junior Scientists, E-mail zfwn@tu-chemnitz.de

(Author: Dr. Nadia Lois)

Coordinator at Chemnitz University of Technology's International Office (IUZ). The program also aims to support sustainable travel, which is why the funding amount for using environmentally friendly means of transport such as trains or long-distance buses is higher than for non-sustainable travel.

In addition, students with children, students with disabilities (GdB from 20) or chronic illness, students from non-academic parents and, to a certain extent, working students for Erasmus+ stays have the opportunity to receive additional monthly funding of up to € 250 for their Erasmus+ stay.

"The new travel grant and the additional funding for fewer opportunities are great additions and extensions to the support provided by Erasmus+. This makes it easier for students to spend time abroad during their studies, even those who may not have previously planned such a stay for various personal reasons." Oliver Sachs is delighted with the increased funding opportunities.

Interested students can find all information on possible additional funding on the Erasmus+ website of the IUZ under “Funding” (https://mytuc.org/qtbh). You can also contact Oliver Sachs at the IUZ directly for personal advice.

Contact and further information: Oliver Sachs, phone: +49 (0)371/531-37972, E-Mail: oliver.sachs@iuz.tu-chemnitz.de

“Postponed is not abandoned – finally complete the course paper!” Headed by this slogan, the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers" happens again on March 6, 2025 at Chemnitz University of Technology. It starts at 03 pm at the University Library, Straße der Nationen 33. The participation is free of charges.

"Students of Chemnitz University of Technology, who would like to complete their course paper, and doctoral students, who want to proceed with the elaboration of their doctoral thesis, may expect a comprehensive program and lots of time for writing," Angela Malz, Director of the University Library, says. Thus, representatives of faculties and central institutions of Chemnitz University of Technology, of the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau as well as other offer a variety of workshops.

The "Long Night" will be opened by a presentation of Tina Horlitz from the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau dealing with the question “Have you ever thought about yourself?” which would like to provide hints and information on how to take care for oneself in challenging phases of studies in order to charge (new) energy and to stay high-performing. The presentation is followed by workshops dealing with the search for literature for the course paper resp. the doctoral thesis, with the management of literature sources and with ways to avoid frequent mistakes in LaTeX-manuscripts, held parallely in German and English, as well as on how to conduct appropriate surveys in the field of empirical social research. In addition, there will be again a workshop giving answers to the question "And what comes next? Entrepreneurship during and after studies". Furthermore, there are additional new workshop offers regarding “Legal questions about studying” and the working method of the “Digital note box”. Finally, there will be again an offer for exercise.

Moreover, there will be information booths until 09 pm at the foyer of the University Library, where participants may gather information regarding literature search, working methods, texting techniques, IT as well as social and psychological aspects of academic work. Specific questions of international students, regarding residence issues or related to learning German as a foreign language for instance, are answered as well.

A number of persons and institutions of Chemnitz University of Technology were involved in the organization of the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers". Among those are the University Library, the Student Council of Chemnitz University of Technology, the faculty student bodies, the University Computer Center, the Methodological Competence Center of the Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, the Professorship of Intercultural Communication, the entrepreneurship network SAXEED, the International Office, the Foreign Language Center and the Central Course Guidance Service as well as the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau. 

Homepage of the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers": www.mytuc.org/landah   

Additional offers of Chemnitz University of Technology regarding "Academic Writing"

In addition to the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers", also other offers may be used for getting assistance in academic writing. To those belong:

• a course "Academic Writing" during the term on Thursdays from 11:30 am to 01:00 pm,
• an Academic Writing Week  from March 10 to 14, 2025, from 09:00 am to 12:15 pm respectively, and
• consultation hours for academic writing, held during the term on Tuesdays from 11:30 am to 01:00 pm.

The courses and consultation hours are offered by Dr. Burkhard Müller. Please register for participation at the Foreign Language Center of Chemnitz University of Technology.

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)

The Erasmus+ programme takes students to exciting places all over Europe for a semester abroad. Students at Chemnitz University of Technology have access to exchange places at a total of more than 200 partner universities in 30 countries via their departments. Those who would like to start their semester abroad in winter semester 2025/26 or summer semester 2026 with the Erasmus+ programme should apply now in their department for the exchange place. After that, the application for Erasmus+ program participation must be submitted to the International Office (IUZ) of Chemnitz University of Technology by March 31, 2025. Further information is available online.

Erasmus+ offers a lot

“A semester abroad with Erasmus+ offers many advantages. The stay can be financially supported, there are no tuition fees at the host university and the recognition of achievements abroad is just as much a part of the programme as the comprehensive organisational support. ‘The monthly funding instalments of 600 Euro or 540 Euro are supplemented by a possible additional grant of 250 Euro per month for students with children, physical disabilities, from a non-academic family or in employment” Oliver Sachs, Erasmus+ coordinator of the International Office (IUZ), emphasises. The IUZ offers Erasmus+ students numerous advisory and support services before, during and after their stay, preparatory meetings and intercultural training. In addition, the IUZ is in contact with the partner universities and is available as a contact point at all times to ensure that the semester abroad is an unforgettable experience.

For further information please contact: Oliver Sachs, phone: +49 (0)371 531-37972, E-Mail: oliver.sachs@iuz.tu-chemnitz.de.

Equal opportunities for everyone regarding the access to an open science: Institutions around the globe make use of the annual „International Open Access Week“ (OAW) to promote Open Access and additionally an open science culture (Open Science) as indispensable part of science and research by events and activities. In this context, the University Library (UL) of Chemnitz University of Technology invites for several events from October 21 to 27. Among them a workshop, a virtual fun riddle and a hands-on activity are being offered at the dining hall Reichenhainer Straße.

The theme of the OAW of 2023 “Community over Commercialization” is determined as focus point again this year due to its urgency. The reason why: Authors, funding organizations, research institutions and service providers like libraries world-wide are reconsidering their ways of transformation to Open Access selected. Which Open Access-business models are really serving at science? Thus, the Open Science Team of the UL would like to discuss its thesis that “All research results should be open to public. Change my mind!” at its booth at dining hall Reichenhainer Straße on October 23 between noon and 2 pm.  

On October 24, the University Library invites to panel discussion at Weinhold-building from 12:30 pm on. The focus is put on the question “Is this the future or just rip-off? Open Access Publishing at Elsevier, Wiley and Springer vs. MDPI and Frontiers”. An input is given i.a. by Prof. Dr. Arved C. Hübler, Head of the Institute for Print and Media Technology. He says: “The publication market counts among the last pillars for good science, it serves for selection – in Open Access as well.” The panel is also joined by Prof. Dr. Robert Kretschmar, holder of the professorship of Inorganic Chemistry. He thinks; “The great challenge of the present peer- review-system is that profits of the publishers are financed by tax money and this in three ways: Scientists elaborate and format the articles, other scientists are reviewing them and last but not least one pays in the one or the other manner. Although, there are alternatives like Diamond Open Access.” To the panel participants counts also Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun, holder of the Professorship of Measuring and Sensor Technologies. She may report, jointly with her PhD-students, from nice and less nice experiences with entire Open Access Publishers as well as the traditional publishing system. Persons interested are asked for prior registration for the panel discussion.

The highlight of this year is the according of the “Open Access Award” in different categories. In acknowledgement of their efforts for enhancing Open Access at Chemnitz University of Technology, awards are accorded to some scientists resp. representatives of the different ways of publication: Open Access Gold, Open Access Green, Diamond Open Access and Open Access Monographs.  

Background: Ways of Open Access-publishing

Politics and science are promoting the transformation from Closed Access to the free availability of knowledge. Funding organizations support projects for the establishment of appropriate sustainable infrastructures. Publishers offer different Open Access options. Academic institutions and consortia re-allocate publications costs from subscription to the financing of individual publications. Although authors as well as users do not have to pay for publishing of and access to scientific results, all Open Access ways are not possible without the investment of resources. During the last decades, no way of publication could be determined as royal road on the national as well as on the international level. Also the further enhancement of Diamond Open Access requires intensive reflection on sustainability or potential dependencies.

Schedule of the „Open Access Week 2024“ at Chemnitz University of Technology: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/ub/openscience/veranstaltung/oaweek_2024.html

Contact to the Open-Science-Team of Chemnitz University Library offering also individual specific consultations: Ute Blumtritt, phone +49 (0)371 531-31290, email oa@bibliothek.tu-chemnitz.de

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

Who did not make the experience of stress prior to the examinations? In order to assist students of Chemnitz University of Technology to prepare at the best for their examinations, the University Library (UL) offers to them even several opportunities during the central examination period from July 14 to August 10, 2024. During this period, it has not only extended opening hours, from 09:00 am to midnight, but it is additionally open on Sundays during the same time. Furthermore, the UL provides from July 14 on four more teamworks spaces in its „IdeenReich“ in addition to those in the „Common Area“ at the East Wing. However, they have to be booked online before via a reservation system.

Organizational information: Bookings are possible daily for the periods from 9 am to 01 pm, from 01 pm to 5 pm and from 5 pm to 10 pm respectively. For the usage of the additional teamwork spaces at the IdeenReich on Saturdays and Sundays, the booking has to be done the respective Friday before until noon at latest. The working spaces may be used by groups up to 10 persons. However, the registration has to be done by one person serving also as contact person for the UL then.

The information and service desks are not staffed on the four Sundays within the examination period. This means, that users may work in the UL and also borrow and return media from its collections via the self-checkout and return machines, but may not pay charges or ask for making changes at their user data. This applies also to weekdays from 07 pm to midnight and to Saturdays from noon to midnight. However, in case of inquiries, the guard at the ground floor next to the main entrance may be contacted.

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

ISINA, the Interdisciplinary Symposium for Women in STEM, took place on 13-14 March and was a great success. ISINA provides every year a unique opportunity for women in technology, science, mathematics and computing to share knowledge, network and collaborate. The two-day event featured inspiring presentations from female experts and scientists, as well as interactive workshops. More than 50 participants had the opportunity to engage with experienced women in STEM and gain inspiration on how to realize their full potential.

The symposium has been opened by the vice president for research and university development Prof. Anja Strobel who emphasized in her touching speech the importance of the event and the great chances it provides for empowering both female students and young scientists. The opening lecture has been provided by Dr. Nicole Lorenz, the deputy chairwoman of the university council of Chemnitz University of Technology and the CEO of the Axilaris GmbH Chemnitz. She delivered an exceptionally inspiring talk that resonated and left an indelible mark. Through a mixture of success stories, valuable advice and heartfelt encouragement, she ignited a sense of motivation and aspiration in the audience, inviting them to explore new horizons in their individual career development.

The interdisciplinary symposium program included six plenary lectures provided by prominent women experts and scientists on trends in science and technology with presence of strong research groups and participation of the collaborative research centers at Chemnitz University of Technology.

A speed dating event has been organized to connect attendees with sponsoring companies and showcase available job positions. Attendees have been invited to visit the labs of Chemnitz University of Technology and Fraunhofer IWU to explore ongoing research projects in electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and natural sciences.

Empowering Women in STEM is the aim of ISINA, which contributes to create a future, where women have equal opportunities and recognition in these important career fields. ISINA will celebrate its 10th anniversary next year with a special program. The organizing committee welcomes proposals for special events, lectures and program highlights to make this milestone celebration unforgettable.

(author: Prof. Olfa Kanoun)

“Postponed is not abandoned – finally complete the course paper!” Headed by this slogan, the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers" happens again on March 7, 2024 at Chemnitz University of Technology. It starts at 05 pm at the University Library, Straße der Nationen 33. The participation is free of charges.

"Students of Chemnitz University of Technology, who would like to complete their course paper, and doctoral students, who want to procede with the elaboration of their doctoral thesis, may expect a comprehensive program and lots of time for writing," Angela Malz, Director of the University Library, quotes. Thus, representatives of faculties and central institutions of Chemnitz University of Technology as well as of the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau and an external consultant offer a variety of workshops.

The "Long Night" will be opened by a presentation of Dr. Peggy Jacob from Texting and Writing Coaching Berlin jointly with Tina Horlitz from the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau with the headline  "Procrastination is over" offering in addition to information also a number of practical hints for completing the course paper resp. for the elaboration of the doctoral thesis, which may be tried out on-site right afterwards. The presentation is followed by workshops dealing with the search for literature for the course paper resp. the doctoral thesis, with the management of literature sources and with ways to avoid frequent mistakes in LaTeX-manuscripts, held parallely in German and English, as well as concerning fundamental basics for formatting major word-documents and ways on how to conduct appropriate surveys in the field of empirical social research. Finally, another workshop deals with the question "And what comes next? Entrepreneurship during and after studies". In the breaks, participants may profit from health and relaxing offers. The Student Union takes care for creature comforts by the provision of snacks and beverages.

In addition, there will be information booths until 10 pm at the foyer of the University Library, where participants may gather information regarding literature search, working methods, texting techniques, IT as well as social and psychological aspects of academic work.

A number of persons and institutions of Chemnitz University of Technology were involved in the organization of the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers". Among those are the University Library, the Student Council of Chemnitz University of Technology, the faculty student bodies, the University Computer Center, the Methodological Competence Center of the Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, the Professorship of Intercultural Communication, the entrepreneurship network SAXEED, the  Foreign Language Center, the Center for Junior Scientists, the Center for Sports and Health Promotion and the Central Course Guidance Service. An important partner is also the Student Union Chemnitz-Zwickau. 

Homepage of the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers": www.mytuc.org/landah   

Additional offers of Chemnitz University of Technology regarding "Academic Writing"

In addition to the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers", also other offers may be used for getting assistance in academic writing. To those belong:

• a course "Academic Writing" during the term on Thursdays from 11:30 am to 01:00 pm,
• an Academic Writing Week  from March 4 to 8, 2024, from 09:00 am to 12:15 pm respectively, and
• consultation hours for academic writing, held during the term on Tuesdays from 11:30 am to 01:00 pm.

The courses and consultation hours are offered by Dr. Burkhard Müller. Please register for participation at the Foreign Language Center of Chemnitz University of Technology.

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

The International Office has created the landing page “DigiAssist” for international prospective students and international students to bring together and sustainably enhance existing consultation and continuing education services in one place. Furthermore, an online survey is currently being conducted on DigiAssist, the study conditions for international students at the university and student life in Chemnitz. Results shall indicate if existing support offers should be improved or adapted. This survey is offered in German and English, is anonymous and takes about ten minutes. International students are invited to take part.

Comprehensive Offers on DigiAssist

Besides a FAQ-section, faculty- and subject-related content is also available on DigiAssist. Student mentors of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, and Humanities have prepared important study-related content for presentations. International prospective students and students can also use DigiAssist to get an overview of important contact points and student initiatives at Chemnitz University of Technology.

Multilingual University Glossary Extended by Further Languages

The multilingual university glossary explains important university terms. Recently, it has been extended by the languages Polish, Ukrainian, Russian and Urdu. International students of Chemnitz University of Technology are invited to add translations in their respective national language to support their fellow students.

Background: DAAD Program STIBET II and “TUCinterdigital”

The program “STIBET II” of the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) aims at initiating model projects for international students to increase the success of (international) students, to strengthen academic support and to increase intercultural competence of students and university staff. The project “TUCinterdigital” was financially supported by the DAAD with funds from the Federal Foreign Office from 2021 to 2023. Based on the survey’s results, DigiAssist will continue to be tailor-made.

For further information, please contact Jennifer Bosniatzki, staff member at the International Office of Chemnitz University of Technology, phone +49 (0)371 531-33072, e-mail: jennifer.bosniatzki@iuz.tu-chemnitz.de

Based on 78,541 evaluations from 584 institutions in Germany, the "StudyCheck Award" was presented on January 24, 2024. The Chemnitz University of Technology was chosen by users of the online evaluation portal StudyCheck.de as one of the top 10 most popular German universities for the third year in a row. This earned Chemnitz University of Technology one of the ten "StudyCheck Awards 2024", along with the "Top University 2024" certificate. In the "Most Popular Universities" category, it maintained its third-place ranking from the previous year, with a 97% recommendation rate and a score of 4.2 out of 5 stars. In the overall ranking of all colleges and universities, it reached fourth place and is also the most popular university in East Germany on StudyCheck.de. Chemnitz University of Technology also received a "Category Award" in the category "Most Popular Universities with 5,000 - 15,000 students", as it ranked second in this category, moving up one place from the previous year. Chemnitz University of Technology achieved these positive ranking results based on 281 experience reports published by its students and alumni in 2023 on StudyCheck.de.

"Our students are particularly close to our hearts, which is why the consistently good results at StudyCheck are a very important confirmation of our work. This reflects the actual experiences students have at their universities. I thank everyone who submitted a review for their praise," says Prof. Dr. Maximilian Eibl, Vice President for Academic and International Affairs at Chemnitz University of Technology.

Currently more than four stars for "Literature Access", "Study Content", and "Lecturers"

Over the past three years, a total of 856 Chemnitz students and alumni registered on StudyCheck.de rated their studies very positively – especially in the categories "Literature Access" (4.6 out of 5 stars), "Study Content" (4.2 out of 5 stars), and "Lecturers" (4.1 out of 5 stars). The top 5 Chemnitz courses currently include Primary School Teaching and the bachelor's programs in Psychology, Prevention, Rehabilitation and Fitness Sports, Media Communication, and Business Studies.

Digital Studies in Chemnitz Highly Rated

StudyCheck.de continually publishes a ranking on the state of digitalization at universities. As of January 24, 2024, Chemnitz University of Technology ranks 8th nationwide with a rating of 4.04 stars and 1st among state universities in the "Digital Readiness" badge within StudyCheck.de. This live ranking is accessible at https://www.studycheck.de/digital-readiness-ranking. This special ranking includes universities with at least 250 published evaluations in the last 365 days and a rating of at least 3.75 stars for the criterion "Digital Studies".

Background: "StudyCheck Award 2024"

StudyCheck is an independent evaluation portal that offers prospective students guidance and orientation within the German higher education landscape. For the "StudyCheck Award 2024", a total of 78,541 evaluations from 584 universities and (technical) colleges were analyzed. The winners are determined by the students themselves: in the two categories "Most Popular Universities" and "Most Popular Colleges", the experience reports from 2023 decide the ranking. StudyCheck ranks all institutions according to a score value of up to 10, based on the two factors of star rating and recommendation rate. In their reports, students evaluate their institution in categories such as study content, lecturers, courses, facilities, organization, literature access, and digital studies. All ranking results are available at www.studycheck.de/hochschulranking.

Chemnitz University of Technology portal on StudyCheck.de: https://www.studycheck.de/hochschulen/tu-chemnitz

Note: In the series "City, Country, Study," www.spiegel.de introduces university cities – students share what everyday life is like there. In the current edition, student Angelina Wettinger introduces the university city of Chemnitz.

Who did not make the experience of stress prior to the examinations? In order to assist students of Chemnitz University of Technology to prepare at the best for their examinations, the University Library (UL) offers to them even several opportunities during the central examination period from February 4 to March 2, 2024. During this period, it has not only extended opening hours, from 09:00 am to midnight, but it is additionally open on Sundays during the same time. Furthermore, the UL provides from February 5 on four more teamworks spaces in its „IdeenReich“ in addition to those in the „Common Area“ at the East Wing. However, they have to be booked online before via a reservation system (mytuc.org/hwfc).

Organizational information: Bookings are possible daily for the periods from 9 am to 01 pm, from 01 pm to 5 pm and from 5 pm to 10 pm respectively. For the usage of the additional teamwork spaces at the IdeenReich on Saturdays and Sundays, the booking has to be done the respective Friday before until noon at latest. The working spaces may be used by groups up to 10 persons. However, the registration has to be done by one person serving also as contact person for the UL then.

The information and service desks are not staffed on the four Sundays within the examination period. This means, that users may work in the UL and also borrow and return media from its collections via the self-checkout and return machines, but may not pay charges or ask for making changes at their user data. This applies also to weekdays from 07 pm to midnight and to Saturdays from noon to midnight. However, in case of inquiries, the guard at the ground floor next to the main entrance may be contacted.

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

The Erasmus+ programme takes students to exciting places all over Europe for a semester abroad. Students at Chemnitz University of Technology have access to exchange places at a total of more than 200 partner universities in 31 countries via their departments.

Those who would like to start their semester abroad in winter semester 2024/25 or summer semester 2025 with the Erasmus+ programme should apply now in their department for the exchange place. After that, the application for Erasmus+ program participation must be submitted to the International Office (IUZ) of Chemnitz University of Technology by March 31, 2024. Further information is available online.

Benefit from Erasmus+

The Erasmus+ programme offers many advantages - from the possibility of financial support and the waiving of tuition fees at the host university to the recognition of academic achievements and extensive organisational support.

"We are particularly pleased about the increased funding rates of up to 600 Euro per month and the more extensive additional financial support in Erasmus+. In addition to students with children or physical disabilities, students from non-academic homes and working students now also have the opportunity to receive an additional 250 Euro per month.", Oliver Sachs, Erasmus+ coordinator of the International Office (IUZ), emphasises. The IUZ offers Erasmus+ students numerous advisory and support services before, during and after their stay, preparatory meetings and intercultural training. In addition, the IUZ is in contact with the partner universities and is available as a contact point at all times to ensure that the semester abroad is an unforgettable experience.

For further information please contact: Oliver Sachs, phone +49 (0)371 531-37972, E-Mail oliver.sachs@iuz.tu-chemnitz.de

Chemnitz University of Technology reached the TOP 10 among German universities in the "Global University Employability Ranking" and is also among the 250 best universities worldwide that equip their graduates with the right skills for professional life. This was reported by Trendence Institut GmbH, Berlin, in a press release on December 18, 2023. The respected study annually determines universities around the world that best prepare their graduates for the job market.

For this year's Global Employability Study, the Trendence Institute, together with the French consulting firm Emerging, surveyed 11,560 HR managers with more than five years of professional experience and international recruiting expertise in 21 countries. They were able to cast up to ten votes each. The result was 100,700 votes cast for more than 1,000 universities. In total, only 19 universities from Germany made it into the ranking of the 250 best universities worldwide, including Chemnitz University of Technology.

"The excellent performance of Chemnitz University of Technology in the Global University Employability Ranking is a tremendous success for our university. It impressively demonstrates that Chemnitz University of Technology prepares its students excellently for the national and international job market, TUC graduates are highly sought after there, and our university enjoys a high reputation among human resources managers worldwide," says Prof. Dr. Gerd Strohmeier, President of Chemnitz University of Technology.

Further rankings underscore the fact that Chemnitz students themselves are very satisfied with the study conditions at their university. In 2023, Chemnitz University of Technology was the third most popular university in Germany and the most popular university in Eastern Germany on studycheck.de. It also achieved second place among universities in Germany and first place among universities in Eastern Germany in the "Digital Readiness" ranking on the same rating portal (access date: December 19, 2023). Chemnitz University of Technology was also rated excellently by its students in numerous courses of study in the "CHE University Rankings".

On December 22, 2015, the UN General Assembly passed Resolution A/RES/70/212, establishing an International Day of Women and Girls in Science to honor the role of women in science and research. This day has been celebrated annually on February 11 around the world ever since. Gender equality is a global task for UNESCO, and promoting young women, their comprehensive education, and the transfer of their scientific ideas and findings are among its most important activities.

At Chemnitz University of Technology (TUC), the promotion of female scientific talent, supporting women on their way to leadership positions, and the compatibility of family, studies, and career are key topics in an increasingly complex work, research, and study environment. Therefore, on February 2, 2024, an "International Women-in-Science Day" will be organized for the first time at TUC.

For this occasion, the Vice President for Research and University Development at TUC, Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel, and the Equality Commissioner at TUC, Karla Kebsch, invite guests to the Alte Heizhaus at Straße der Nationen 62. The day will start with a scientific lecture by Prof. Dr. Pamela Billig Mello-Carpes, Professor and Vice-Rector at the Federal University of Pampa (UNIPAMPA) in Brazil, who is currently a visiting researcher at the Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences at TUC in the work group of "Motor Skills, Cognition & Neurophysiology". Prof. Mello-Carpes works and researches as a neuroscientist in the field of learning and memory. She was a member of the leading management group of the movement "Parent in Science" (https://www.parentinscience.com/english) and also works on issues concerning women and parents in science.

The lecture will be followed by a panel discussion on topics such as "Dual Career", "Family Career", and "Challenges as a Woman in Science". The aim is to convey different disciplinary and life perspectives on the subject, share advice and experiences, and engage in discussion with female scientists at various career levels. The panel will feature Prof. Dr. Angelika Bullinger-Hoffmann, Professor of Ergonomics and Innovation Management at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at TUC, Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun, Professor of Measurement and Sensor Technology at the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology at TUC, Prof. Dr. Teresa Pinheiro, Professor of Cultural and Social Change at the Faculty of Humanities at TUC, and Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel, Professor of Personality Psychology and Assessment at the Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Vice President for Research and University Development at TUC. The target audience for the lecture and panel discussion includes interested female scientists at all career stages and female students. The lecture and discussion will be conducted in English.

The second part of the day is dedicated to informal exchange among the female professors and junior professors at TUC. In a coffee-and-talk format, interested colleagues from TUC can exchange ideas and network, discussing focal points and needs for their work with the Vice President and the Equality Commissioner.

Program for the "International Women-in-Science Day" on February 2, 2024, at the Alte Heizhaus, Straße der Nationen 62:

09:00 AM                                Welcome

09:05 – 10:35 AM                   Scientific Lecture

11:00 AM – 12:30 PM             Panel Discussion

01:00 – 03:00 PM                   Networking / Coffee and Talk

(Author: Karla Kebsch)