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March 11
- Observing Electron Motion in Solids
The ultrafast dynamics and interactions of electrons in solids have been a challenge to observe directly. Researchers from the University of Oldenburg and Politecnico di Milano have developed a new spectroscopic method that uses ultra-short laser pulses to analyze the movement of electrons in materials. This method, known as two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy (2DES), allows for the study of quantum-physical processes with high temporal resolution. The team has found a way to simplify the experimental implementation of this procedure, making it more accessible for wider use.
The research involves using a sequence of three ultrashort laser pulses to excite electrons in a material, changing its optical properties, and then using a third pulse to provide information about the excited system. By varying the time intervals between these pulses, different stages of the process can be observed. The team's new approach, which involves adding an optical component to an interferometer, has significantly improved the precision of the laser pulses.
This breakthrough could lead to new insights into various quantum-physical processes, such as chemical reactions and energy transfer in solar cells.
March 10
- Smart Implants with Miniaturized Motors Find Their Place in Bone Screws at Hannover Messe
➀ A team from Saarland University's Faculty of Engineering and Medicine is developing smart implants at the university and university hospital to monitor and promote healing in body bone fractures.
➁ The robotic implants can stiffen and soften through shape-memory technology, allowing for permanent monitoring of fracture healing.
➂ The research team is miniaturizing the technology for use in market screws as part of an EU project.
- RoboCup@Home: Team ToBi Starts at German Open 2025
➀ The RoboCup@Home team ToBi from the University of Bielefeld's Faculty of Technology is participating in the RoboCup German Open 2025 in Nuremberg. The team consists of eight students and three scientists from CITEC.
➁ The competition challenges the robot to perform various household tasks, including greeting guests, storing purchases, or carrying luggage.
➂ The COSY@Home Lab at CITEC prepares a new team for the competition each year, providing students with valuable practical robotics knowledge.
- Dr. Kathrin Goldammer Appointed as Honorary Professor at HTW Berlin
➀ Dr. Kathrin Goldammer has been appointed as an honorary professor at HTW Berlin, Faculty 1 Engineering – Energy and Information.
➁ She brings extensive experience in the energy industry and expertise in applied energy research to the renewable energy programs.
➂ Goldammer's professorship focuses on the energy and electricity industry, energy policy, and the social framework for the use of renewable energy.
- Dr. Kathrin Goldammer Appointed Professor at HTW Berlin
Dr. Kathrin Goldammer has been appointed as a Honorary Professor at HTW Berlin, starting from the summer semester of 2025. She brings extensive practical experience in the energy sector and expertise in applied energy research to the Bachelor and Master programs in Renewable Energies.
Goldammer has been teaching at HTW Berlin as a lecturer since 2023, focusing on the economic aspects of renewable energy utilization.
Her teaching focuses on energy and electricity economics, energy policy, and social frameworks for the use of renewable energies. Goldammer emphasizes problem-based learning, using practical cases and specific questions related to energy economics to teach her students.
- Call for Support for the 2025 International Summer School at Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences
➀ The Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences (HSHL) is hosting the fourth edition of its popular Summer School 'The Business of German Engineering' from July 6 to 19, 2025.
➁ The program offers international students a unique opportunity to delve into the world of engineering, learn from German innovations, and develop intercultural competencies.
➂ The Summer School aims to attract potential professionals to the German job market for the region, with up to 25 students from around the world learning about HSHL, the cities of Hamm and Lippstadt, and the region.
March 8
- Quantum Tornadoes in the Momentum Space: Würzburg-Dresden Research Team Achieves First Experimental Proof of a New Quantum Phenomenon
➀ A young research team from Würzburg has experimentally proven a new quantum phenomenon, the quantum tornado, in the momentum space of the quantum semiconductor tantalum arsenide (TaAs).
➁ This quantum phenomenon was theoretically predicted eight years ago by a founding member of the ct.qmat excellence cluster in Dresden.
➂ The research involves collaboration between ct.qmat, the research network of the universities of Würzburg and Dresden, and international researchers, with the work published in the journal Physical Review X.
March 7
- RETHINKING PHYSICS: 100 Years of Quantum Mechanics - Time for a Female Perspective!
➀ The Technical Collections Dresden are highlighting quantum physicists on International Women's Day 2025.
➁ The traveling exhibition 'RETHINKING PHYSICS. 100 Years of Quantum Mechanics: Time for a Female Perspective!' will open with portraits of established and emerging researchers.
➂ The exhibition aims to make women in the natural sciences more visible, promote role models, and encourage questioning the structures in the scientific culture.
- Efficient Production of Sustainable Aviation Fuel Achieved
➀ Researchers at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have demonstrated the production of climate-friendly fuels like kerosene using Power-to-Liquid (P2L) methods from CO₂, water, and green electricity.
➁ In the Kopernikus P2X project, an innovative and highly efficient co-electrolysis process has been coupled with fuel synthesis for the first time at an industrial scale of 220 kilowatts.
➂ The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) is funding this project.
March 6
- Hannover Messe: Smart, energy-efficient robot grippers cut production costs
➀ A new type of robot technology in Saarland reduces energy consumption by 90% compared to conventional systems.
➁ The technology uses lightweight, shape memory materials to create non-pneumatic gripper systems that operate without additional sensors.
➂ The prototypes on display at Hannover Messe include vacuum and jaw grippers that require minimal energy to hold and manipulate workpieces.
- Students Launch Ferrofluid Experiment in Sounding Rocket - Improving Future Space Technologies with Magnetic Fluid
➀ Students from the University of Stuttgart are launching a ferrofluid experiment aboard the REXUS sounding rocket from the European spaceport in Sweden between March 10 and 15, 2025.
➁ The mission aims to explore the performance of ferrofluid-based technologies in weightless conditions and under extreme forces and temperatures.
➂ The use of magnetic fluid is intended to improve technologies for space travel, focusing on durability and sustainability.
- Students Conduct Ferrofluid Experiment on High-altitude Research Rocket - Improving Future Space Technologies
Students from the University of Stuttgart are launching a Ferrofluid experiment on the REXUS research rocket. The goal is to investigate how Ferrofluid-based technologies behave in microgravity and under extreme forces and temperatures. The technology could improve maintenance and sustainability of space vehicles.
The FINIX experiment tests a Ferrofluid-based pump and switch system. The students aim to demonstrate that these technologies can withstand space conditions through optimized magnetic field geometries and manufacturing processes.
The rocket is set to launch from the European Space Center in Sweden between March 10th and 15th, 2025, reaching an altitude of approximately 90 kilometers for a brief three-minute test period in zero gravity.
- Researchers Develop Primitive Artificial Tissue
The University of Kiel leads an international team of researchers in creating a network of millions of synthetic 'cells'.
This breakthrough, published in Nature Communications, involves the development of a synthetic tissue that is both stable and fluid, mimicking the properties of living biological tissues.
The researchers have replicated the behavior of living cells by using a molecular machine inspired by the flagellum of swimming bacteria, studying the mechanical properties of the tissue network.
- Exploration of Hidden Atomic Movements Through Machine Learning
➀ Researchers at the Fritz-Haber Institute have developed the Automatic Process Explorer (APE), an approach that enhances our understanding of atomic and molecular processes.
➁ APE reveals unexpected complexities in the oxidation of palladium (Pd) surfaces, providing new insights into catalyst behavior.
➂ By using machine-learned interatomic potentials (MLIPs), APE predicts atomic interactions and improves the accuracy of simulations.
- Empa's New 'CarboQuant' Lab Peers into Carbon's (Quantum-) World
➀ The Empa opens a new lab focused on harnessing quantum effects in carbon, aiming to pave the way for sustainable quantum technologies including quantum computers.
➁ The project is supported by the Werner Siemens Foundation and the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNF), with research on carbon nanostructures and quantum effects.
➂ The lab features advanced Raster Tunnel Microscopes, allowing precise manipulation and observation of quantum states in carbon nanomolecules, crucial for quantum computing and other technologies.
- New Work Environments with Mixed Teams
The AI Co-Working Lab at the Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg is exploring new human-machine interaction models.
Researchers from eight research groups are working to enable equal collaboration between humans and machines in production.
They are developing methods to check the safety and reliability of these systems and building artificial intelligences that can predict the next logical steps. The aim is to transform production processes with AI, moving from rigid to intelligent, targeted support in Industry 5.0.
- HHL Leads SAFELOOP Innovation Management in Battery Technology
➀ The HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management is part of the European research project SAFELOOP, which is advancing the development of a new generation of safe, sustainable, and high-performance lithium-ion batteries (LIB) for electric vehicles.
➁ SAFELOOP brings together 15 leading academic and industrial partners from 11 countries to develop innovative technologies for a competitive and environmentally friendly battery economy in Europe.
➂ HHL supports technology strategy and IP management, analyzing the global value chain of the LIB industry, evaluating the international patent landscape, and developing viable business models for European innovators.
- Neurons Cast in Silicon: The SENNA AI Chip Accelerates Spiking Neural Networks
The Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS has developed an AI chip for processing Spiking Neural Networks (SNNs). The SENNA spiking neural network inference accelerator, inspired by brain function, consists of artificial neurons and can process electrical impulses (spikes) directly. Its speed, energy efficiency, and compact design enable the use of SNNs directly where data is generated: in edge devices.
SNNs consist of a network of artificial neurons connected by synapses. Information is transmitted and processed in the form of electrical impulses, allowing pulsing networks to be the next step in artificial intelligence: faster, more energy-efficient, and closer to the processing method of the human brain. To bring these advantages into application, small, efficient hardware that mimics a structure of neurons and synapses is needed. For this, the Fraunhofer IIS has developed the neuromorphic SNN accelerator SENNA as part of the Fraunhofer project SEC-Learn.
SENNA is a neuromorphic chip for fast processing of low-dimensional time series data in AI applications. The current version consists of 1024 artificial neurons on less than 11 mm² of chip area. Its low reaction time down to 20 nanoseconds ensures precise timing in time-critical applications at the edge. This makes it particularly strong in real-time event-based sensor data processing and in closed control systems, such as the control of small electric motors with AI. With SENNA, AI-optimized data transmission can be realized in communication systems. There, the AI processor can analyze signal streams and adjust transmission and reception methods as needed to improve efficiency and performance.
March 5
- Fundamental Research for the Hydrogen Economy
The Corromap project aims to close the knowledge gap in corrosion measurement for fuel cells. Corrosion limits the performance and lifespan of fuel cells crucial for the hydrogen economy. The research focuses on in situ corrosion measurements during the operation of the cells. Partners include the Fachhochschule Südwestfalen in Iserlohn and the Zentrum für Brennstoffzellentechnologie Duisburg (ZBT).
The project aims to introduce sensor technology into fuel cells to vary corrosion conditions under laboratory conditions. The ultimate goal is to prevent corrosion and performance losses in the necessary fuel cell technology.
Strategies include monitoring and controlling the operating conditions of fuel cells, optimizing materials and coatings, and developing cost-effective manufacturing processes.
- Sustainable Battery Manufacturing in Sight: Successful Completion of the BMBF-Funded Project IDcycLIB
➀ The IDcycLIB project, funded by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research, has successfully concluded after three years, focusing on sustainable battery lifecycle development.
➁ A significant achievement was the transition of cathode production to an aqueous process, enhancing sustainability and economic viability of battery recycling.
➂ The project developed a digital battery passport system, enabling individualized data collection and tracking of battery cells throughout their lifecycle.
- Sustainable Battery Production in Sight: Successful Completion of the BMBF-Funded Project IDcycLIB
➀ The BMBF-funded battery project IDcycLIB has successfully concluded after three years. The project focused on sustainable battery production and recycling processes.
➁ Key achievements include the transition to a water-based cathode production process and economic evaluation of new recycling methods.
➂ The project also developed a battery pass system for traceability and efficient recycling.
- University Satellite SONATE-2 in Orbit For a Year
The Würzburg University satellite SONATE-2 was launched into orbit a year ago and has achieved all its mission objectives. The satellite, developed by Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg, successfully demonstrated the training of AI autonomously on board for anomaly detection on Earth's surface. The satellite's neural networks were trained to recognize objects not typically found in the Sahara, such as the Nile and adjacent green regions. In addition to the AI payload, the satellite also tested other technologies like the MultiView star sensor and amateur radio services. The satellite remains fully functional and is used for educational purposes.
- Uni-Satellit SONATE-2 Completes One Year in Space
➀ The Würzburg University satellite SONATE-2 has successfully completed its one-year mission in space.
➁ The satellite, developed and built over three years by the team of Professor Hakan Kayal, achieved all mission objectives, including the training of artificial intelligence on board.
➂ SONATE-2 demonstrated the ability to autonomously recognize and photograph anomalies on the Earth's surface, such as the Nile and its surrounding green region.
March 4
- Sensorics as a Game-Changer: From Disaster Protection to Medical Technology
➀ The fourth Applied Sensorics Technology Day (TAS) at Coburg University focused on sensorics as a key technology for the future.
➁ The event featured discussions on the latest developments and innovative applications in sensorics.
➂ Presentations included practical applications in areas like environmental and infrastructure monitoring, industrial sensorics, and healthcare technology.
- Closing the MINT Gap
The Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena is initiating the project 'Hands on! The MINT-Makerspace', supported by the Federal Ministry of Research.
MINT stands for Mathematics, Informatics, Natural Sciences, and Technology. Johannes Kretzschmar, the leader of the Jenaer Lichtwerkstatt, aims to pass on his passion for MINT to young women, who are still a minority in most MINT disciplines. The project, to be implemented over three years, aims to attract 1,000 young women as participants in workshops and exciting MINT projects at the interface of research.
The project is part of the initiative 'Mission MINT: Women Shape the Future', supported by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research. The goal is to introduce young people to role models in the MINT field and foster their interest in MINT studies.
- Kanzler Markus Hinsenkamp Re-elected by a Large Majority
Markus Hinsenkamp has been confirmed for a second term as Chancellor of the University of Bochum, lasting from March 2025 to February 2033.
The University of Bochum has confirmed Markus Hinsenkamp as Chancellor for a second term of eight more years. The re-election process took place on April 8, 2024, in a shortened procedure where a public tender could be waived due to the incumbent's re-candidacy – a method that was first applied at the University of Bochum. The University's electoral assembly, consisting of the eligible members of the Senate and the University Council, voted to re-elect Hinsenkamp. The almost unanimous election result, with only one abstention, underscores the high trust in his committed and successful leadership as Chancellor.
On February 25, 2025, Ina Brandes, Minister for Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, presented Markus Hinsenkamp with the certificate for his second term, which begins on March 1, 2025, and lasts until February 28, 2033.
March 3
- Sensors for Safe Use of Hydrogen
➀ Fraunhofer researchers have developed sensor systems and measuring equipment to detect leaks in hydrogen lines and tanks;
➁ The systems are designed for continuous monitoring of hydrogen shipments and facilities in the chemical industry;
➂ Multiple sensor technologies are used to provide safety equipment for various scenarios of the future hydrogen economy.
- Sensor Technology for Safe Hydrogen Utilization
➀ Fraunhofer researchers have developed sensor systems and measurement devices to detect leaks in hydrogen pipelines or tanks.
➁ These systems enable continuous monitoring of hydrogen transport or chemical industry facilities.
➂ Multiple sensor technologies are used to ensure safety in various future hydrogen industry scenarios.
- More Power for Fiber Optic Networks
➀ Fraunhofer researchers have optimized data transmission in fiber optic networks with applications like self-driving vehicles and 6G communications.
➁ WESORAM and Multi-Cap projects enhance network capacity with innovative technologies.
➂ LCoS mirrors and spectrometer gratings enable advanced signal handling and multiplexing.
- More Power for Fiber Optic Networks
Fraunhofer researchers, in collaboration with partners, have optimized data transmission in fiber optic networks using smart techniques. Optical switches with liquid crystal mirrors reduce data packets, allowing more data to pass through the network. Additionally, splitting signals across various fiber strands creates more flexibility.
The project WESORAM has developed a technology that allows signals from eight input channels to be sent to 16 output channels, increasing network capacity and flexibility. The research also includes the development of signal amplifiers for multi-core fibers, enhancing data transmission capabilities.
Both projects are supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research and the VDI (Association of German Engineers).