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

Chemnitz University Library is the seventh-nicest university library in Germany. However, this was the result of a current instagram survey of the digital funk Content-Network of the public television broadcasters ARD and ZDF, in which participated subsequent to nomination of the TOP 10 of the university libraries more than 35.000 followers. The predominant target group of this network are persons in the age between 14 and 29 years with a high affinity to social media. “I am very delighted that our Library is particularly attractive for young people in the main age category of people interested in studies and students” comments Angela Malz, Library Director, the results and continues: “This is not only good news for us as Library but we thus also contribute to further raising the attractiveness of the University of Technology and Chemnitz as location for studies.”

Since its relocation in the year 2020, Chemnitz University Library is not only focused on one location, which considerably facilitates orientation for first-year-students, but by the renovated “Ancient Spinning Mill” it also disposes of a very representative building in the heart of the city with a long, very diversified history since its construction in mid 19^th century.

In its interior, the building provides a lot of space for a comprehensive open-shelves area extending on both side wings over four levels, for more than 700 standing, sitting, single and team workplaces as well as 19 reservable study cabins (“Carrels”) on the top level. Within the context of the “Third Place”, the “Common Area” in the east wing of the ground floor invites with two childrens’ corners, teamwork spaces as well as eight seating areas to relax and to communicate because here not only unmuted communication but also eating and drinking is permitted. Also culture lovers may benefit from a variety of events happening in a large space situated behind the “Common Area”, which was specifically designed for this purpose (“IdeenReich”) as well as from changing exhibitions on the 1^st level.   

Finally, those spatial offers are perfected by a variety of services of the University Library for its users ranging from rallies and guided tours via training and e-learning opportunities up to bookable individual consultations (“Book a librarian”).

In the past, the University Library was already awarded several times; Thus, the architects and the builder of the building received the particular acknowledgement of the jury of the “German University Building Prize 2022” as well as the acknowledgement within the award of the Prize for Architecture of the Association of German Architects Saxony 2021.

Back to the ranking of the nicest university libraries: In addition to the Biblioteca Albertina of the University of Leipzig (1^st place), the University and State Library Darmstadt (2^nd place) and the Library of the University of Hohenheim (3^rd place) were reaching the virtual winners’ rostrum. Beside the University Library of Chemnitz University of Technology also those of Marburg, Bamberg, Heidelberg, Tübingen, Freiburg and Berlin were voted underneath the Top Ten.

Event tip: If you would like to see Chemnitz University Library live in action, you should come to the "Long Night of Postponed Course Papers" (https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/ub/aktuell/veranstaltungen/landah.html.en) today from 04:00 pm on.

Website of the University Library: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/ub/index.html.en

(Authors: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht, Mario Steinebach / Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

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

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 several opportunities at the same time during the central examination period – this time even a very special one. Thus, the University Library opens again every day until midnight until March 7, 2026. From the “Long Night of Postponed Course Papers” on February 5 until February 13, 2026 it may for the first time even be used 24/7 – which means all around the clock. In that way, the University Library fulfills a long-time wish of its users. Accordingly, it expects a high frequency also in the night.

Also until March 7, 2026, four additional teamwork places are provided every day, which may be booked online in advance via an 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 seven 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. During the 24/7-opening hours, within the period from midnight to 09:00 am, the University Library may only be entered via the main entrance by the TUCcard. For that, the card has to be presented to a scanning device next to the doors.

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

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

From December 1 to 4, 2025, the final week of the three-year collaborative project „WeSPICE" took place at the Tunisian university École Nationale d'Electronique et de Télécommunications de Sfax (ENET'COM). The project was funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) as part of the Ta'ziz Partnership Program. The following staff members from the Chair of Measurement and Sensor Technology at Chemnitz University of Technology were involved in the project: Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun (Chair holder), Dr. Thomas Keutel (Project Manager Impedance Spectroscopy), Dr. Christian Viehweger (Working Group Leader and Project Manager Energy-Autonomous Sensor Systems), Dr. Rim Barioul (Working Group Leader Smart Wearables), Dr. Hiba Hellara (Project Manager Smart Wearables), and Mohamed Dhia Ayadi (Project Leader Micro- and Nanosensors (Nanogenerators)). The project was officially concluded with all participating organizations on December 4, 2025, in a ceremonial closing event attended by representatives from TU Chemnitz and the German Embassy in Tunis, as well as the Director of the DAAD Country Office.

Cross-Border Professional Development and Student Orientation

TU Chemnitz and ENET'COM in Sfax have worked closely in recent years with the Dräxlmaier Group, headquartered in Vilsbiburg, Lower Bavaria. The globally renowned premium vehicle manufacturer develops and produces wiring systems, electrical and electronic components, battery systems, and high-quality interiors for premium automotive manufacturers such as BMW and Porsche.

The project pursued three central thematic priorities with a special focus on knowledge transfer, participatory network building, and sustainable dialogue between academia, industry, and society:

• Professional development in ASPICE (Automotive SPICE): A total of 17 professionals were qualified, including seven instructors who will directly incorporate their knowledge into university teaching in the future, thereby ensuring sustainable knowledge transfer from industry to academia.
• Building an interdisciplinary network: A network of 25 partners from industry and society was established. Together with these non-university actors, „Improvements of Engineering Education Addressing Industry and Research Needs" were discussed from the perspectives of instructors and students. These participatory dialogue spaces enabled knowledge exchange between academia and practice and contributed to the needs-oriented development of engineering education.
• Student-oriented events: Over 360 students participated in a total of 32 participatory events including hackathons, soft skills seminars, women's empowerment workshops, job fairs, and green economy workshops. These formats strengthened the dialogue between universities, industry, and civil society and created sustainable bridges between academic education and professional practice.

ASPICE is an internationally recognized process model for evaluating and improving development processes in the automotive industry. Manufacturers and suppliers worldwide use it to ensure the quality, safety, and efficiency of software and system development. The project's final week was framed by a job fair and a workshop on integrating ASPICE into academic teaching. This made the international collaboration between research, industry, and education clearly visible and strengthened once again. „The parallel qualification of instructors and the practice-oriented offerings for students represent a sustainable contribution to strengthening international cooperation and training future professionals," emphasizes Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun, project leader on the German side.

Background: The WeSPICE Project

The collaborative project „We Establish Sustainable Program to Improve Commitment to Employability" (WE-SPICE)" was funded from 2023 to 2025 by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) as part of the Ta'ziz Partnership Program with approximately 300,000 euros from the German Federal Foreign Office.

Background: Ta'ziz Partnership Program

The Ta'ziz Partnership Program, funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) with resources from the Federal Foreign Office, promotes cooperation between German universities and partner institutions in the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa). The Arabic term  „Ta'ziz" means „strengthening" or  „consolidation" and clarifies the program's objective. In times of social and political change, universities and non-university actors are to be supported in order to promote reforms, scientific cooperation, and civil society participation.

For further information, contact Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun, Chair of Measurement and Sensor Technology

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

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

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

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

How study or do an internship abroad successfully? What funding opportunities are available, and what experiences have other students had during their stays abroad? Answers to these and many other questions will be provided at the International Day of the International University Center (IUZ) at Chemnitz University of Technology on November 4, 2025.

The event offers a diverse program with experience reports, livestreams from partner universities, and information by experts on organization and funding opportunities related to studying abroad. It will be held in the lecture hall and seminar building in and in front of lecture hall C10.113, Reichenhainer Straße 90.

Insights from students at Chemnitz University of Technology and partner universities from 1:45 p.m. to 3:15 p.m.

Focusing on personal perspectives, students from Chemnitz University of Technology report on their semesters and internships abroad, both within and outside Europe. In addition, representatives from the partner universities of Across – The European University for Cross-Border Knowledge Sharing, specifically the Università di Udine (Italy) and the University of Banja Luka (Bosnia and Herzegovina), will join by livestream to present their universities as study locations and provide a brief insight into regional student life. The livestream will be in English. In addition, the IUZ team will provide information about scholarship programs and the necessary steps for applying.

“The reports from students during an information session are a great opportunity to gain direct and immediate insight into what studying abroad during your studies can be like and what wonderful experiences you can have,” says Oliver Sachs, Erasmus+ coordinator at the IUZ, looking forward to International Day. In combination with information about the Across university alliance, partner universities, scholarships, and internships abroad, the International Day at Chemnitz University of Technology will once again offer a varied program.

Presentation on funding opportunities for internships abroad in the Erasmus+ program from 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Leonardo Office Saxony invites to a talk and provides information about Erasmus+ funding for internship stays abroad. Participants will learn how they can finance their internship abroad and what support is available for their application and preparation.

Further information offers

On the first floor of the lecture hall and seminar building, an IUZ and Across information stand will be available throughout the afternoon to answer individual questions and provide advice on stays abroad. Coffee and snacks will be available free of charge to accompany the information provided – while stocks last.

The International Day is aimed at all Chemnitz University of Technology students who are planning a semester or internship abroad or simply want to be inspired.

Further information on the program for International Day at Chemnitz University of Technology: mytuc.org/kwfp

Background: European university alliance Across

Across – The European University for Cross-Border Knowledge Sharing is a European university alliance coordinated by Chemnitz University of Technology that aims to develop solutions for cross-border challenges. With their regional roots near borders, the nine partners of the Across Alliance contribute to the sustainable development of cross-border regions by bringing about genuine social change, cultural integration, a sustainable approach to innovation, new economic opportunities, and employment together with stakeholders from business and civil society. Across encompasses an academic space with more than 100,000 students and has been funded by the European Union since the beginning of the year as part of the European Universities Initiative.

Through innovative and diverse models of long-term cooperation, the participating European universities contribute to strengthening common European values and a stronger European identity. In doing so, they help to achieve significant progress in terms of quality, attractiveness, and international competitiveness in the participating regions, thereby contributing to the economy, employment, culture, and prosperity in Europe.

The Across alliance consist of:

• University of Banja Luka (Bosnia and Herzegowina)
• Politechnika Białostocka (Poland)
• Technische Universität Chemnitz (Deutschland)
• Universitatea din Craiova (Romania)
• Universitat de Girona (Spain)
• Univerza v Novi Gorici (Slowenia)
• Université de Perpignan Via Domitia (France)
• Università di Udine (Italy)
• Angel Kantchev University Ruse - Русенски университет „Ангел Кънчев" (Bulgaria)
• Ivan Franko National University Lviv (Ukraine) – Associated Partner

Contact: Oliver Sachs, phone +49 (0)371 531 37972, email oliver.sachs@iuz.tu-chemnitz.de

Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun, holder of the Department of Measurement and Sensor Technology at Chemnitz University of Technology, was awarded the President of the Republic of Tunisia's prize for the best Tunisian researcher living abroad at a ceremony in Tunis on 28 August 2025.

The National Prize for Science and Technology is awarded by the Tunisian Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MESRS). It honours Tunisian researchers and inventors living in Tunisia or abroad who have distinguished themselves through outstanding scientific achievements or technological innovations. The research prize is awarded according to strict criteria that go far beyond mere publication performance. Scientific visibility through publications and doctorates, innovative strength through patents or new methods, the economic and social benefits of research projects, and international presence through collaborations, conferences and awards are all taken into account. In the case of Prof. Dr. Kanoun, the award recognises in particular her scientific excellence and the technological innovation of her internationally recognised research work.

“This award represents an important milestone in my academic and scientific career. I regard it as recognition of many years of intensive research and the dedicated commitment of our entire professorship. At the same time, it is a strong motivation for us to continue on the path we have chosen with determination and dedication and to further advance our scientific work,” emphasises Prof. Dr. Kanoun.

"We warmly congratulate Professor Kanoun on this prestigious award and are delighted that our colleague has received this recognition. The award once again underlines the excellence of the scientific achievements and technological innovations that Professor Kanoun and her team are making in the field of materials and intelligent systems," says Prof. Dr. Anja Strobel, representative of the Rector and Vice-Rector for Research and University Development at Chemnitz University of Technology.

Commitment to Tunisia and promoting young talent

Although Prof. Dr. Kanoun works in Germany, she has always maintained close ties with Tunisia. She has supervised more than 100 theses by Tunisian engineering and master's students, as well as over 20 doctoral and postdoctoral students. In addition, she has organised more than 15 international summer schools in Tunisia and developed over 30 research and mobility projects with Tunisian institutions, which were funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the European Union.

Innovation, patents and international projects

As the (co-)owner of seven patents in the field of sensor technology and nanomaterials, Kanoun is also heavily involved in innovation. She supported the founding of NanoSen GmbH, a start-up specialising in innovative force sensors. She also coordinates numerous large-scale international projects at EU level and in the context of joint projects of the German Research Foundation.

Prof. Dr. Kanoun has also founded and chaired several renowned international conferences, including the International Workshop on Impedance Spectroscopy (IWIS) and the Multi-Conference on Systems, Signals and Devices (SSD). She has been elected IEEE Distinguished Lecturer twice (2016 and 2022).

About Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun

Born and raised in Sfax, Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun studied in Germany and established herself internationally as a leading expert in the fields of sensor technology, impedance spectroscopy and nanomaterials.

Prof. Dr. Kanoun received her doctorate from the University of the Federal Armed Forces in Munich in 2001 and was awarded the dissertation prize by the Working Group of University Lecturers for Measurement Technology (AHMT e. V., Germany). In the same year, she founded the ‘Impedance Spectroscopy’ working group at the Institute for Sensor Technology and Measurement Systems at the University of the Federal Armed Forces in Munich (Prof. Dr. Hans-Rolf Tränkler). In 2006, she was appointed adjunct professor and head of the Department of Measurement Technology at the University of Kassel. Since 2007, she has been a full professor at Chemnitz University of Technology, where she heads the Chair of Measurement and Sensor Technology. After founding the International Workshop on Impedance Spectroscopy (IWIS) in 2008 and the Advanced School on Impedance Spectroscopy in 2017, she launched the Technical Committee Impedance Spectroscopy (TC2) in 2018. Prof. Dr. Kanoun is now a leading and internationally recognised scientist in the field of sensors and sensor systems.

In the SCOPUS literature database, she tops the list of authors on impedance spectroscopy in Germany and the list of authors worldwide in the field of sensor systems for impedance spectroscopy. She has published over 700 peer-reviewed scientific publications, which have been cited more than 8,000 times. Her work has led to decisive advances in the development of novel intelligent sensors, energy-autonomous systems and new diagnostic methods for batteries, health, the environment and industry. In 2022, she was honoured with the Technical Award of the IEEE Instrumentation and Measurement Society for her pioneering achievements.

(Translation: Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun, Anne Eichhorn)

„Live long and prosper!” – with this phrase, well known to science fiction fans, Prof. Dr. Jan-Philipp Stein, Head of the Department of Media Psychology at Chemnitz University of Technology, welcomed more than 20 media enthusiasts from nine different countries to the summer school “How much science is in science fiction?” in Chemnitz on 28 August 2025. The event was officially opened by Prof. Dr. Maximilian Eibl, Vice-Rector for Teaching and International Affairs at Chemnitz University of Technology. In close cooperation with Across – The European University for Cross-Border Knowledge Sharing European University Alliance ACROSS, Prof. Dr. Stein and his team organised an inspiring and varied two-day programme.

The exciting guest lectures by renowned social scientists on science fiction media and the technologies, social developments and issues addressed therein provided interesting insights. Speakers included Prof. Jaime Banks (Syracuse University, USA), Prof. Fabio Buttussi (University of Udine, Italy) and Prof. Sorin Cazacu (University of Craiova, Romania).

The international audience, which consisted primarily of students, early-career researchers and postdocs, many of whom had travelled from ACROSS partner cities, also had the opportunity to participate in a creative writing workshop led by artist Denise Lee during the event. In addition, participants were able to learn more about psychological research at the Institute for Media Research at Chemnitz University of Technology. The packed programme of the Summer School at Chemnitz University of Technology was rounded off by a poster session in which participants presented their own research work and a sci-fi film evening.

Overall, the summer school offered participants a great opportunity to exchange ideas and network based on their shared enthusiasm for media, stories and the futuristic worlds of science fiction. According to the organisers in Chemnitz, this made the event a complete success.

Background: Across

Across – The European University for Cross-Border Knowledge Sharing is a European university alliance coordinated by Chemnitz University of Technology that aims to develop solutions for cross-border challenges. With their regional roots near borders, the nine partners of the Across Alliance contribute to the sustainable development of cross-border regions by bringing about genuine social change, cultural integration, a sustainable approach to innovation, new economic opportunities and employment, together with stakeholders from business and civil society. Across covers an academic area with more than 100,000 students and has been funded by the European Union since the beginning of the year as part of the European Universities Initiative.

Through innovative and diverse models of long-term cooperation, the participating European universities contribute to strengthening common European values and a stronger European identity. They help to achieve significant progress in terms of quality, attractiveness and international competitiveness in the participating regions, thereby contributing to the economy, employment, culture and prosperity in Europe.

The Across Alliance includes:

•    University of Banja Luka (Bosnia)

•    Bialystok University of Technology (Poland)

•    Chemnitz University of Technology (Germany)

•    University of Craiova (Romania)

•    University of Girona (Spain)

•    University of Nova Gorica (Slovenia)

•    University of Perpignan Via Domitia (France)

•    University of Ruse ‘Angel Kanchev’ (Bulgaria)

•    University of Udine (Italy)

•    Ivan Franko National University (Ukraine) as an associate partner

(Authors Prof. Dr. Jan-Philipp Stein, Anne Eichhorn)

Can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I came from Mongolia. I graduated from the Mongolian University of Science and Technology (MUST) in 2014 with a bachelor’s degree in Computer Hardware Engineering. Since 2023, I have begun my master’s research in the rapidly advancing field of Artificial Intelligence, one of the most dynamic areas in today’s technological world. I am very pleased to have been selected for the “Saxon Student Mobility Program” and to have joined Chemnitz University of Technology in May 2025 as a visiting research master's student.

What brought you to Chemnitz and what are you currently doing at Chemnitz University of Technology? 

I learned about the "Saxon Student Mobility Program” through an announcement posted on the official website of MUST. After successfully passing the selection, I came to Chemnitz University of Technology as a research master’s student to produce an internationally recognized research paper in my chosen field of study. My research work involves studying a wide range of methods in AI and machine learning, as well as image processing, and exploring how these can be applied to solving real-world problems. For instance, I am working on the development of a mobile application capable of detecting various types of skin cancers and lung cancers.

What is your impression of the city and its university?

Chemnitz is a city with a rich history and remarkable beauty. Upon my arrival, I found it to be safe for foreigners, characterized by abundant green spaces, a tranquil atmosphere, friendly residents, and a highly developed public transportation system. I have been thoroughly impressed by the university’s campus, research laboratories, library, and surrounding environment. The abundance of research laboratories and the extensive collection of resources in the library provide significant advantages for student learning.

What has been your highlight so far?

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that many students at the university were already familiar with Mongolia. For instance, they spoke about Chinggis Khaan, Ulaanbaatar city, and the Mongolian countryside. I have had the opportunity to gain knowledge from excellent professors, connect with international students, build meaningful friendships, and explore various aspects of myself. These experiences have made my time here both enriching and memorable.

What will you do after your stay at Chemnitz University of Technology? What are your plans?

During my time at Chemnitz University of Technology, I am working on completing my master's thesis. Upon returning to Mongolia, I plan to finalize and defend my master's degree as soon as possible. My future goal is to return to Chemnitz University of Technology to pursue doctoral studies. I also intend to share the knowledge and experience I have gained with students in Mongolia.

(Interview conducted by Sophie Oelsch.)

Following the launch of the German version of the optically as well as content-related comprehensively redesigned „Modulkurs zur InformationsKompetenz und zum wissenschaftlichen Arbeiten“ (MIKA) (“Modularized Course for Information Skills and Scientific Work”) for students already last winter term, this course is now also available in English. “Through the course guides MIKA, a diverse person designed by a student of Chemnitz University of Technology. As the title of the course already indicates, the e-learning-course is structured in a modularized way. This means, that users have got the opportunity to select specific modules corresponding to their learning demands and objectives. Thus, they may choose between finding or assessing information, between presenting or sharing knowledge or how they may do most effective networking”, Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht, Deputy Director of the University Library, explains. Furthermore, the modules are themselves clearly structured for again offering the opportunity to select the contents needed. Within the elaboration of the explanations, it was observed to avoid too extensive text passages and to enrich the written contents by short video-tutorials. In addition, the topic of Artificial Intelligence was included within the redesign, e.g. AI-aided searching, design with AI-tools or relation between AI and copyright.

“MIKA for students and its pendant LENA for pupils are crucial implementations with regard to our objective determined in our Library Strategy 2030 to offer more target group-oriented modularized learning opportunities”, Angela Malz, Director of the Library, explains and continues: “In that way, it makes me even more happy that MIKA is now also available in English, which should be good news particularly for our international students. Thanks to the bilingualism, we are now able to cover the entire target group of our TUC-students.”

Jointly with all other service offers of the University Library, MIKA may be found on the “BIB4U”-website or may be accessed directly by the following shortlink: https://mytuc.org/mika. 

(Translation: Dr. Wolfgang Lambrecht)

Students Clinton Ikechukwu, Muhammad Junaid Ali, and Oghosa Abu from Chemnitz University of Technology triumphed over 300 student teams from 49 countries with their concept of an artificial intelligence system designed to assist pilots during emergency landing scenarios. For their innovation, they received the Airbus Fly Your Ideas Global Prize. "In aviation, where so many lives depend on thousands of small decisions, we identified gaps where care and precision can falter," said Clinton Ikechukwu, a student in the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Program meta 4.0 at TU Chemnitz. "Our innovative AI, EVA_LAND, aims to improve flight safety by analyzing data from various cameras and sensors and supporting pilots as a co-pilot during non-standard emergency landings."

Oghosa Abu, a student in the Advanced and Computational Mathematics program, shared her experience: "It was impressive to see how an idea that started on paper became a reality through the process and filled a very specific gap. What we learned in our studies turned out to be directly applicable and went beyond theory. The foundation of our project was inspired by the work of Mélanie Ducoffe; her scientific paper ‘Don’t Lie to Me! Robust and Efficient Explainability with Verified Perturbation Analysis’ had a major influence on us. Using mathematical models to understand the inner workings of AI opened our eyes, and incorporating those insights into our AI system was truly exciting. I was also thrilled to see the airshow live in Paris—it was an unforgettable experience."

Muhammad Junaid Ali, who also studies in the meta4.0 master’s program, added: "To close every possible gap in aviation safety through 'purposeful creativity,' this process wasn’t just about generating ideas, but about enabling sustainable solutions that make a real difference. You don’t have to start with the perfect idea or have all the answers right away. What truly matters is passion, collaboration, and commitment. As a team, we encouraged each other to think bigger, ask tougher questions, and keep going—even when things didn’t work the first time. This experience wasn’t just about winning. It was also about discovering ourselves, identifying our strengths, stepping out of our comfort zones, and realizing what’s possible when passionate people come together, trust each other, and grow through every challenge. That’s what made this journey unforgettable."

The students were mentored by Prof. Dr. Stephan Odenwald (Chair of Sports Equipment Technology), Prof. Dr. Claudio Paganini (Acting Professor for Theoretical Mathematics), Dr. Michael Teichmann and Julia Bergelt (Chair of Artificial Intelligence), as well as Dr. Matthias Rehm and Dr. Mario Lorenz (Chair of Production Systems and Processes).
"We warmly congratulate our three students on this wonderful achievement, which has certainly enriched them both professionally and personally and could be a great starting point for their careers," said Dr. Rehm.

"This project succeeded because of honest critique and interdisciplinary collaboration. From abstract concept to functional design, this was a true team effort. Thank you to everyone who challenged us, taught us, and believed in us," said Clinton Ikechukwu. "And many thanks to Airbus for empowering young minds to tackle real-world challenges and for recognizing our EVA_LAND model as meaningful and promising."

(Author: Katja Klöden)

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 6 to August 16, 2025. 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 18 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 seven 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)

From June 16 to 19, 2025, Chemnitz University of Technology will host the hybrid-format OASIS-International Summer School on Sensor Technologies for Water and Health Innovation (OASIS-SENSE). The event is organized within the DAAD-funded project Open Innovation Alliance for Sustainable Islamic Societies in Water and Health (OASIS), coordinated by the Professorship of Measurement and Sensor Technology (MST) at TU Chemnitz. The project brings together partners include researchers from TU Chemnitz, the University of Science, Technique and Technology of Bamako (USTTB), CERFILTEX, DONYATEK SARL, EvoSmarTec GmbH, and Fayoum University.

The summer school provides a platform for interdisciplinary exchange between researchers, students, and professionals on innovative sensor technologies for sustainable water and health systems.

From Smart Materials to Environmental Sensors

One thematic focus of the summer school lies in the development of smart sensor materials and their use in water quality monitoring:

• Prof. Fabiana Arduini (University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy) will introduce paper-based electrochemical biosensors as low-cost solutions for environmental monitoring.
• Prof. Ahmed S. G. Khalil (Faculty of Science, Fayoum University, Egypt) will discuss functional membranes and 3D sponges for high-performance wastewater treatment.
• Prof. Najla Fourati (Le CNAM, Paris, France) will speak on the integration of chemical and biological sensing for real-time water quality monitoring.
• Prof. Asmaa Kamal Morad (Faculty of Science, Fayoum University, Egypt) will present advanced strategies for chemical synthesis aimed at sustainable societal solutions.

Biomedical Applications and Sensor Integration

A second major focus is on biomedical sensing and device integration, including the latest developments in organic and implantable technologies:

• Prof. Xing Sheng (Tsinghua University, China) will present on implantable optical and electrical sensors for advanced neural interfaces
• Prof. Caroline Murawski (Technical University Dresden, Germany) will present innovations in biomedical optoelectronic sensors using organic semiconductors.
• Prof. Abdelhamid Errachid (Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1) will present advanced point-of-care tool for saliva analysis: application to heart failure.
• Prof. Surinder Singh (Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering & Technology Longowal, India) will share insights on implantable antenna sensors for bio-telemetry.

Skills for Innovation: Conflict, Communication, and Ethics

The scientific program is complemented by workshops and discussions addressing key soft skills for interdisciplinary innovation:

• Dr. Rabeb Blaeich (University of Sfax, Tunisia) will lead sessions on conflict management and innovation management.
• M. Sci Mohamed Dhia Ayadi (Chemnitz University of Technology, Germany) will offer training in scientific presentation and media communication.
• A panel discussion on the ethical implications of artificial intelligence in healthcare innovation will round out the program.

Registration Now Open

Participation in the summer school is free and open to interested students, researchers, and professionals. The event will be held both on-site at TU Chemnitz and virtually.

Registration is available here: https://shorturl.at/0Dfqy

Contact: Prof. Dr. Olfa Kanoun, Chair of Measurement and Sensor Technology, Chemnitz University of Technology, E-mail olfa.kanoun@etit.tu-chemnitz.de

The Faculty of Economics and Business Administration at Chemnitz University of Technology is establishing an English-language program starting in the 2025/26 winter semester. The master's program in Business & Economics (M.Sc.) offers graduates of bachelor's programs in economics and business administration an excellent foundation for careers in large and medium-sized companies with international networks, in academia, in administration, or in internationally active organizations.

“With the introduction of our English-language program, we aim to provide our students with the best possible conditions for a successful career in the global economy,” explains Prof. Dr. Michael Mayer, Dean of Studies for the program, adding: “We are convinced that this step will make our university even more attractive and promote exchange and collaboration on an international level. At the same time, we want to contribute positively to regional economic development.”

The program provides in-depth knowledge of business administration, economics, and related fields such as law, statistics, and digitalization. Students analyze economic relationships, learn to make entrepreneurial decisions, and deal with current challenges such as sustainable management, the impact of technology on business processes, and international trade structures.

The modular structure allows for personalized specialization. Additionally, with appropriate course selection, students can deepen their expertise in up to two of the following areas and have these specializations noted on their certificates:

• Strategy, Leadership & Economics
• Sustainability, Innovation & Marketing
• Finance, Taxation and Controlling
• Empirical and Applied Economics.

It is also possible to learn additional foreign languages.

The program is designed as a full-time on-campus study and can be completed in four semesters. Under certain conditions, part-time study over eight semesters is also available. This offers maximum flexibility – ideal for students balancing family commitments or initial work experience alongside their studies.

Set in a research-intensive, international environment with excellent contacts in business, politics, and academia, the program offers students the opportunity to thrive. Additionally, they benefit from the location in Chemnitz – a city in transition. As the European Capital of Culture 2025, Chemnitz offers a creative, urban setting with a high quality of life and many cultural opportunities.

The prerequisite for this master's program, which usually begins in the winter semester, is a bachelor's degree from Chemnitz University of Technology in economics and business administration. Under certain conditions, a bachelor's degree in Business Informatics, Business Administration and Engineering, or European Studies with Economical Sciences is also accepted as well as a professionally qualifying university degree in a program with equivalent content. The details are outlined in the study regulations.

Applications for the winter semester 2025/26 are still open for international applicants until July 15, 2025, via uni-assist (https://www.uni-assist.de/en/). German applicants can apply until September 19, 2025.

All information regarding language requirements, application procedures, and course structure can be found at: https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/wirtschaft/studium/master/be/

For more information, please contact the academic advisor: Dr. Mahsa Samsami, Phone: +49 371 531-37391, E-Mail: master_be@wiwi.tu-chemnitz.de

(Translation: Dr. Nicole Thurner)

Specialists in the field of data science are increasingly in demand in the regional, national, and international job market. At the same time, there are few specialized programs in Germany that impart the necessary knowledge. With this in mind, Chemnitz University of Technology offers the new program, "Foundations in Data Science", starting in the winter semester of 2025/26 at the bachelor's level. Data scientists are distinguished not only by their sound theoretical and practical knowledge, but also by their ability to think logically and abstractly, to proceed analytically, to communicate precisely, to demonstrate perseverance in solving complex problems, and to work effectively in a team. The new, open-admission, English-taught degree program is designed to equip students with these skills with particular emphasis on mathematical principles and techniques.

A feature of this new program in Chemnitz is the close cooperation of the mathematics with electrical engineering and information technology faculties, giving students opportunity to master data-based challenges in practice and to analytically solve complex problems from various application fields. In the age of digitalization, data increasingly forms the basis for decisions and innovations, and thus interdisciplinary collaboration between mathematics and applied sciences is becoming increasingly important.

At Chemnitz University of Technology, international students can also acquire German language skills, contributing significantly towards their integration into the German-speaking job market. Correspondingly, native German speaking students may integrate effectively into the internationalized working environment through their gained confidence and fluency in English. "With this degree, both direct entry into the job market and further qualification in German- or English-taught degree programs – such as the Master's in Data Science at Chemnitz University of Technology – are possible," explains Dean of Studies Prof. Dr. Philipp Reiter, holder of the Chair of Harmonic Analysis at Chemnitz University of Technology. Graduates of the "Foundations in Data Science" bachelor's program are versatile and find exciting career opportunities in a wide variety of fields, from data analysis and business intelligence to software development and artificial intelligence, as well as with the automotive industry and smart mobility.

International applicants can enroll for the 2025/26 winter semester via uni-assist (https://www.uni-assist.de/en/) until July 15, 2025. German applicants can apply until September 19, 2025.

Extensive information about the program is available on the website https://www.tu-chemnitz.de/fids.

The Faculty of Mathematics at Chemnitz University of Technology recommends taking a subject-specific entrance exam before applying. A preparatory course at German school leaver level with an online practice tool is also available.

For further information, please contact Prof. Dr. Philipp Reiter, phone +49 371 531-31585, or email fids@tu-chemnitz.de.

(Translation: Prof. Dr. Philipp Reiter)

Chemnitz University of Technology (TUC) is part of the „German-Ukrainian University Network“, funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) with 24 million euros from July 2025 to June 2029. A total of 29 cooperation projects have been selected to strengthen academic cooperation between German and Ukrainian universities. The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) has guaranteed the funds, which will be the responsibility of the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Aeronautics (BMFTR) under the new Federal Government.

At Chemnitz University of Technology, the project “CLiK Bridge: Innovation in education and research for sustainable German-Ukrainian collaboration and rebuilding of Ukraine“ is funded with up to 790,000 Euros.

“Over the next four years, microcredentials and microdegrees, particularly in the fields of physics and economics will be established between Chemnitz University of Technology and the Ukrainian partner universities,” says Prof. Dr. Maximilian Eibl, Vice President for Academic and International Affairs at TUC. The project is carried out in close cooperation with the Ukrainian universities, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv and Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv. With both universities, TUC has already worked together very closely for several years. At TUC Prof. Dr. Stefan Hüsig, chair holder of the professorship Innovation Research and Technology Management, Prof. Dr. Dietrich R. T. Zahn, chair holder of the professorship Semiconductor Physics, and the Start-up Network SAXEED are involved.

Between the partner universities, “microcredentials” – self-contained learning units focused on a specific topic – are being developed in the areas of innovation management, business English and intercultural communication. “Support is also provided, e.g. for students and teaching staff exchange, the training of teaching staff in modern university didactics and international communication as well as for the modernization of laboratories and digital infrastructure at the participating Ukrainian universities,” says the project lead Dr. Benny Liebold, Head of the International Office at TUC.

Further information: International Office, e-mail iuz@tu-chemnitz.de

(Translation: Katharina Wohlgemuth)

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

When hearing the word "crystal," one inevitably pictures precious stones that glitter impressively, sparkle, or leave lasting impressions with various color effects. Yet this common term does not merely exhaust itself in the decorative appearance of mineral treasures. A careful observation of sunlit, iridescent butterfly wings, shimmering peacock feathers, or the shifting hues of a chameleon reveals not only aesthetic beauty but also conceptual sophistication stemming from a shared physical mechanism: these surfaces are revealed to be highly complex, nanoscale-structured patterns, invisible to the naked eye yet remarkable in their optical effects.

These are known as "photonic crystals," structures that reflect certain ranges of light colors while allowing others to pass through. The interplay of scattering, absorption, and transmission creates spectral dependencies that impressively blur the lines between science and art, at least from a perceptual standpoint. Such phenomena rely on the wave nature of light, first described around 1650 by the Dutch naturalist Christian Huygens. They can be explained through the interaction of light waves with regularly structured surfaces, whose typical structural widths correspond roughly to the wavelength of visible light. This wavelength falls between 400 and 700 nanometers, about one hundredth the diameter of a human hair (approximately 0.05 millimeters, or 50 micrometers). Thus, the spectral properties of peacock feathers or other regularly patterned materials can be well-explained by the wave nature of light and by scattering and transmission effects, logically leading to their identification as photonic crystals.

A Chemnitz artwork and its unexpected significance for science

An interdisciplinary team consisting of members from the Faculty of Natural Sciences, the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, and the Research Center for Materials, Architectures, and Integration of Nanomembranes (MAIN) at Chemnitz University of Technology, along with researchers from the University of Marie & Louis Pasteur in Besançon (France) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Electronic Nano Systems (ENAS), have successfully identified, following in the footsteps of Huygens and Fresnel, a man-made artistic installation the largely regular arrangement and previously unknown wave-breaking properties of which qualify it as the largest realization of a photonic crystal reported hitherto in the scientific community. This installation manipulates the propagation of radio waves—electromagnetic waves in the gigahertz range—which play a crucial role in information and communication technology, including frequencies relevant to modern 4G and 5G mobile standards.

The artwork in the spotlight is "Denk- und Wahrnehmungsmodell zum Phänomen der Farbe" ("Model of Thought and Perception of the Phenomenon of Color") by Dresden-based artist Stefan Nestler, adorning the forecourt of the Central Auditorium Building at TU Chemnitz since 1998. It consists of 187 vertical, regularly arranged hollow steel pillars of varying heights, square in cross-section, originally representing colors from the so-called RAL color scale, widely used in industry and architecture as a reference standard. Accompanying the pillar structure is a glass panel engraved with a quote from philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein (1889–1951), inviting contemplation on the ideal representation of color, concluding with the words: "For do not forget that your gaze wanders, and there is no description of what you see."

As recently reported by researchers from Chemnitz and Besançon in the interdisciplinary journal "Scientific Reports," published by Springer Nature Portfolio, the artwork symbolizes not only an abstract representation of colors but also practically achieves a "color-selective" transmission of radio wave signals. Analogous to the play of colors on a butterfly's wings—though on a considerably larger scale—electromagnetic waves at certain frequencies within the so-called "bandgap" are prohibited from propagating through the material structure and are thus reflected. This is precisely the classic behavior expected from a photonic crystal.

Unexpectedly, the European Capital of Culture Chemnitz 2025 now hosts an artwork that, upon detailed scientific analysis, sets new benchmarks. Thus, Chemnitz 2025 will become not only a stage for art and culture but also the setting for an unexpected scientific discovery—highlighting, as quoted by Lichtenberg, the astonishing complexity underlying our human perception of color.

The project received funding from Chemnitz University of Technology under the TUCculture2025 initiative (projects "Chemnitz: Wood, Light, Sound" and "Wave Games"), the Free State of Saxony (Saxon State Doctoral Scholarship), and the French region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté.

Voices from TU Chemnitz on the Scientific Discovery:

David Röhlig, PhD student at the Professorship of Theoretical Physics – Simulation of New Materials at TU Chemnitz, scholarship holder: "This work is a beautiful example of how an initially seemingly utopian idea becomes reality through interdisciplinary cooperation."

Prof. Dr. Angela Thränhardt, Professor of Theoretical Physics – Simulation of New Materials and Dean of the Faculty of Sciences at TU Chemnitz: "It is truly remarkable: Right in the middle of the Capital of Culture Chemnitz, even on the university campus, a work of art opens a real window into the world of a fundamental physical principle – that of the propagation of waves in photonic crystals."

Prof. Dr. Ralf Zichner, Professor of High Frequency Engineering and General Electrical Engineering at TU Chemnitz: "Interdisciplinary collaboration opens up new perspectives and promotes innovation. This exchange between disciplines allows us to gain new insights and overcome existing boundaries of knowledge."

Dr. Thomas Blaudeck, Managing Director of the Research Center for Materials, Architectures and Integration of Nanomembranes (MAIN): "The work is a beautiful example of how curiosity and serendipity, i.e., the in-depth observation and description of something not previously sought and the intellectual engagement with it, can constitute science."

Original Publication: David Röhlig, Vincent Laude, Ralf Zichner, Felix Thieme, Angela Thränhardt and Thomas Blaudeck "Radio wave attenuation by a large-scale photonic crystal sculpture", Scientific Reports 15, 12317 (2025), DOI 10.1038/s41598-025-95986-9.

Event Notice: The artwork "Model for Thought and Perception of the Phenomenon of Color" by Stefan Nestler also invites visitors to participate in experiments as part of the TUCculture2025 project "Wellenspiele" (Wave Games) on TUCtag 2025 on May 10th. These experiments are intended to spark interest in studying natural sciences and engineering at TU Chemnitz and will take place from 2:00 PM to 5:45 PM at the artwork in front of the Central Auditorium Building of TU Chemnitz, Reichenhainer Str. 90.

Further information can be obtained from: Dr. Thomas Blaudeck, Phone +49 (0)371 531-35610, Email thomas.blaudeck@main.tu-chemnitz.de, and Prof. Dr. Angela Thränhardt, Phone +49 (0)371 531-37636, Email angela.thraenhardt@physik.tu-chemnitz.de.

(Author: Dr. Thomas Blaudeck, Translation: Tobias Bollig)