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

When you made your first coffee this morning, did you act on autopilot or did you plan each movement with the goal of coffee in mind? This simple question goes straight to the heart of a central distinction in neuroscience: the difference between actions that are habitual and those that are goal-directed. In a recent paper published in the renowned journal Trends in Neuroscience, Prof. Dr. Fred Hamker (Chair of Artificial Intelligence, Chemnitz University of Technology), Dr. Javier Baladron (University of Santiago de Chile), and Dr. Lieneke Janssen (Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg) challenge this classic distinction. They discuss how interaction between brain loops could efficiently shape our behavior – and potentially that of AI-Transformer models in the future.

Until now, researchers have assumed that our brain operates with two systems that control our thinking and behavior: a fast, automatic system and a slow, deliberate one — known, for example, from Daniel Kahneman’s bestseller Thinking, Fast and Slow. These systems are thought to produce either quick, habitual actions or considered, goal-oriented behavior. However, according to Hamker, Baladron, and Janssen, much of our everyday behavior arises from a complex chain of processes in the nervous system in which both systems are tightly interwoven.

The research team therefore proposes a new model: instead of distinguishing between “habitual” and “goal-directed” behavior, behavior should be viewed on a continuum. At the center of this are the loops connecting the basal ganglia, thalamus, and cortex — recurring circuits in the brain. “These loops enable both goal-directed and automatic behavior. The key factor is how strongly they interact: when shortcuts form within these circuits, behavior tends to become habitual. When all loops are fully traversed, actions remain more goal-oriented,” explains Hamker.

Their insights could also inspire new directions in AI research. The three researchers see parallels between the attention mechanisms of modern transformer networks — the technology that underlies large language models — and context processing in the human brain. “If AI models could in the future make use of habit-like shortcuts, they could become more efficient and energy-saving,” the researchers suggest.

Thus, the work of Hamker, Baladron, and Janssen not only opens up new perspectives on how the human brain functions but also on the future development of intelligent machines.

Publikation: Interacting corticobasal ganglia-thalamocortical loops shape behavioral control through cognitive maps and shortcuts, Fred H. Hamker (TU Chemnitz), Javier Baladron (Universidad de Santiago de Chile) and Lieneke K. Janssen (OVGU Magdeburg), Trends in Neurosciences, 9 October 2025, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tins.2025.09.006 

Contact: Prof. Dr. Fred Hamker, Chair of Artificial Intelligence at Chemnitz University of Technology, Telefon +49 (0)371 531-37875, email fred.hamker@informatik.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)

Humans already cooperate closely with robots, for example in industrial settings. This is likely to increase in the future. But what do human-robot teams actually talk about at work? And how? "We want to know if people speak differently when they’re working in a team with a robot compared to a team with another human," says linguist Prof. Christina Sanchez-Stockhammer from Chemnitz University of Technology. Her interdisciplinary team of researchers from neuro-robotics and linguistics conducted experiments in which human participants performed a task together with an industrial robot arm with speech functions. "The obvious choice was to have them assemble a simple IKEA shelf together, because that can be done even without instructions," reveals robotics engineer Sascha Kaden. "During the process, we recorded the teams and then transcribed and analysed everything they said," explains linguist Sasha Coelho.

As the researchers expected, purely human teams produced more statements, explanations and particularly questions, while the robot arm received more direct instructions than humans. "But we were surprised to find almost as many emotional statements in the human-robot teams as between humans." For example: "You're doing a good job."

The full study is now freely available online in open access. "I believe research like this is not only interesting for academics, but also for the general public," says Christina Sanchez-Stockhammer. "But there’s often not much room for explanations in research articles, which makes them harder to follow." That’s why the linguist provides engaging and accessible explanations of her recent publications in matching episodes of her podcast, "Linguistics Behind the Scenes". The latest episode focuses on artificial intelligence and the robot study.

Read the full paper at: Sasha Genevieve Coelho, Sascha Kaden, Marina Beccard, Florian Röhrbein & Christina Sanchez-Stockhammer. 2025. "Another bit. Upwards. Okay, stop." Do we talk differently to humans and robots when assembling a shelf together?, Proceedings of the Mensch und Computer 2025 (MuC '25), 465-470. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1145/3743049.3748536

Listen to the podcast on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNsQsbYqQFs), Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/episode/1R7SB5BuqfoEQNk5cVZR7L) and Apple Podcasts (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/do-you-say-thank-you-to-a-robot-when-humans-talk-to-ai/id1799779038?i=1000725638252).

Information about the podcast “Linguistics Behind the Scenes”: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/phil/english/sections/edling/sciencecommunication/podcast.php

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.

(Translation: Prof. Christina Sanchez-Stockhammer)

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.

The “I, Expert” conference at Chemnitz University of Technology (7-8 October 2024) brought together students, doctoral candidates and researchers from Chemnitz University of Technology and the University of Zaragoza, Spain. The conference was part of the project “I, Expert: Media competence for science through linguistics” of the Chair of English and Digital Linguistics funded by the DAAD program “Higher Education Dialogue with Southern Europe”.

The project aims to promote language awareness in science communication, helping researchers disseminate their findings effectively and credibly while allowing citizens to better understand and engage with scientific information. The initiative bridged the expertise of the Chairs of English and Digital Linguistics, Media Communication, German Linguistics, and Digital Humanities at Chemnitz University of Technology with the InterGedi research group from the University of Zaragoza, as well as the linguistics researcher Lauren Gawne from La Trobe University in Melbourne, Australia.

The “I, Expert” conference provided the participants a platform for discussing their research projects on important topics such as the recontextualization of scientific information across various media platforms, the discourse of different genres in science communication, and the role of linguistic strategies in fostering clear and accurate science reporting. Participants also discussed linguistic aspects they consider when producing their personal science communication like press releases and podcasts. The findings will be used in the autumn school in Zaragoza (19-21 November 2024), where participants will characterize and produce different science communication genres, to be published as an annotated collection of best practice examples.

Through collaborative dialogue, the conference advanced the understanding of how linguistic awareness can enhance science communication, benefiting both the academic community and the public.

Further information on the project: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/phil/english/sections/edling/research/scicom.php

Contact: Dr. Marina Ivanova, Tel. +49 (0)371 531-34037, E-Mail marina.ivanova@phil.tu-chemnitz.de

(Author: Dr. Marina Ivanova)

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)

The Professorship of Computer Engineering at Chemnitz University of Technology conducts research in computer engineering, artificial intelligence, and educational technology. The International Symposium on Computer Science and Educational Technology (ISCSET) began as a summer school collaboration between two universities in 2011 and has evolved into a comprehensive symposium, establishing partnerships with institutions from Germany, Mongolia, Russia, and China. ISCSET focuses on Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Educational Technology, and AI, reflecting rapid technological advancements that have transformed science, industry, teaching, and learning over the past two decades.

ISCSET 2024 marks a significant milestone as it transitions to an IEEE-sponsored event, underscoring its recognition within the global academic community. Scheduled at the IBS Foundation in Lauta/Laubusch, Germany, ISCSET continues to expand its influence in computer science and educational technology. This year's program features distinguished keynote speakers such as Prof. Dr. Steffen Becker from the University of Stuttgart, Dr. Christoph Vernaleken from Deutsche Aircraft GmbH, and Prof. Haibin Wu from Harbin University of Science and Technology. Participants can expect engaging sessions covering cutting-edge research in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence, addressing challenges in Educational Technology, and participating in insightful panel discussions on emerging trends and future directions.

ISCSET 2024 offers a unique opportunity to connect with leading researchers, educators, and industry professionals worldwide. Participants will access diverse sessions and workshops exploring the latest advancements in computer science and educational technology. Whether gaining insights into AI applications, exploring new teaching methodologies, or networking with peers, ISCSET provides a dynamic platform to exchange ideas and foster collaborations that drive meaningful impact. Don't miss your chance to be part of this transformative event — register now and join us at ISCSET 2024!

Home page of IEEE ISCSET 2024: https://www.iscset-conf.org/

For more information contact with: Dr. Shadi Saleh, Phone +49 (0)371 531-34036, e-mail shadi.saleh@informatik.tu-chemnitz.de

(Author: Dr. Shadi Saleh)

The 17th edition of the IEEE International Symposium on Robotic and Sensors Environments (ROSE) will be held on 20-21 June, 2024 at Chemnitz University of Technology, Germany. This two-day conference gathers experts from research institutes, companies, and universities to discuss advancements in sensing systems and technologies for robotics and industrial automation. The focus will be on the impact of innovations on the development and application of autonomous robotics and intelligent systems. The conference has attracted significant interest and provides two distinguishable keynote speeches by experts in this field. Prof. Bruno Siciliano, Professor of Robotics and Chair of the Scientific Council of ICAROS Center at the University of Naples Federico II, and Past President of IEEE Robotics & Automation Society will report on AI & 5G in robotics. Prof. Mohsen Kaboli, PI & director of RoboTac Lab at BMW Research will provide a lecture on Embodied Tactile Intelligence and how it revolutionizes Robotics and Interactive Intelligent Systems. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn from distinguished professionals, network with peers, and explore the latest trends and challenges in robotic sensing environments.

In addition to six main sessions, two workshops will be held. Prof. Florian Röhrbein (TU Chemnitz) will lead a workshop on brain- and bio-inspired robotics, exploring how principles from neuroscience and biology can drive innovation in robotic systems. This workshop will cover the development and use of bio-inspired sensors, which emulate the sensory capabilities of living organisms to provide robots with enhanced perception and responsiveness. Participants will also have the opportunity to join an online meeting with members of the euRobotics Topic Group on Bio-inspired Robotics and attend the inaugural meeting of the Neurorobotic working group of the German node of EBRAINS.

Prof. Olfa Kanoun (TU Chemnitz) will provide a workshop on the potential of multi-modal sensing in smart wearables to present achievements realized within the CRC Hybrid Societies. The workshop will cover the integration of various sensing technologies developed at the chair for measurement and sensor technology to enhance the functionality and user experience of wearable devices, highlighting innovative applications and future trends in this rapidly evolving field addressing technologies for human-machine interfaces, rehabilitation, and sports.

Homepage of the “International Symposium on Robotic and Sensors Environments” (ROSE): https://rose2024.ieee-ims.org/

Contact: Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun, phone +49(0)371 531-36931, email Olfa.Kanoun@etit.tu-chemnitz.de

(Source: Professorship of Measurements and Sensor Technology)

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)