����ֱ�� embodies this attitude in a variety of projects and measures. These include, for example:

• the lecture series Democracy
• the project “Macht(-)Worte! – Political Communication and Democracy 2025”
• the initiation of the “Stop Hand Challenge”
• and its commitment to the statement by the German Rectors' Conference (HRK) “Science needs liberal democracy and the rule of law”

The alliance “Universities Take a Stand” was initiated by a broad network from the fields of diversity, equality, and anti-discrimination, including:

• Network of Diversity Officers at Universities in Schleswig-Holstein

Would you like to take a stand and support the campaign? Then feel free to share the ����ֱ�� posts on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn.

Motifs and messages of #HOCHSCHULENZEIGENHALTUNG:

Magnonics is an emerging technology that uses spin waves – collective excitations of electronic spins in magnetic materials – as an alternative to electrical signals. The spread of this technology has been restricted until now by the need for an external magnetic field, which has prevented it being incorporated into chips.

The new device developed at the Politecnico overcomes this hurdle: it is miniaturised (100 × 150 square micrometres, so much smaller than current radiofrequency signal processing devices based on acoustic waves); it is fully integrated on silicon – and therefore compatible with existing electronic platforms, and it functions without external magnets, thanks to an innovative combination of permanent SmCo micromagnets and magnetic flux concentrators. 

The spin wave guide is made of CoFeB and fitted with two antennas for the input and output of the RF signal. The transverse magnetic field can be modulated very precisely by varying the distance between the magnets and concentrators to between 11 and 20.5 mT. This enables the operating frequency to be adjusted to between 3 and 8 GHz, and the phase shift to be tuned up to 120 degrees at 6 GHz.

As well as demonstrating the principle of the technology, the researchers point out that the prototypes are already functioning as time delay lines and phase shifters, without the application of an external bias field; that the design could be incorporated with MEMS to allow the devices to be reconfigured in real time; and that the choice of SmCo micromagnets ensures they will remain stable in temperatures of up to 200°C and can generate the magnetic field without consuming energy.

As Riccardo Bertacco of the Department of Physics of the Politecnico di Milano has explained: "This result is a decisive step towards moving spin waves from demonstrations in the lab towards a technology that can actually be incorporated into telecommunication systems and electronic circuits."

Silvia Tacchi, from CNR-IOM, adds: "This finding represents a key advancement in the field of magnonics, bringing spin-wave chips closer to being integrated into electronic devices".

The development of these devices is part of the MandMEMS project, funded by the European Union in the context of Horizon Europe. The coordinator of the project, Philipp Pirro from ����ֱ��, incorporates this success into the project roadmap: “Building on this milestone, we can now tackle the next challenges, such as further increasing the transmission efficiency of the devices. Based on the large improvements achieved up to date, we are confident to present soon marketable devices for 6G which are based on standalone spin-wave chips”. 

The consortium involves various European research centres and industrial partners, with expertise ranging from magnonics to MEMS, and RF electronics to materials science. The aim is to develop a technological platform that can make the communication devices of the future more efficient, compact and reconfigurable, paving the way for new applications in telecommunications and high-frequency electronics.

With this innovation, the Politecnico di Milano, R����ֱ�� and Istituto Officina dei Materiali - CNR-IOM have prepared the ground for compact, low-power, high-performance devices, with possible repercussions not only for future telecommunications, but also for consumer electronics, the automotive sector, diagnostics, and more generally for all applications that require integrated processing of high-frequency signals.

Website of the project: 

The study:
M. Cocconcelli, F. Maspero, A. Micelli, A. Toniato, A. Del Giacco, N. Pellizzi, A. E. Plaza, A. Cattoni, M. Madami, R. Silvani, C. Adelmann, A. A. Hamadeh, P. Pirro, S. Tacchi, F. Ciubotaru, R. Bertacco, Standalone Integrated Magnonic Devices. Adv. Mater. 2025, 2503493. 

"The orientation program is open to international students aged 17 to 19 who are in their final or penultimate year of school and who show strong academic performance in STEM subjects, and are highly motivated to study science, technology, engineering, or mathematics in Germany. We support particularly talented young people in a pre-semester program, during which they acquire formal admission requirements such as language skills, and facilitate or shorten their access to our degree programs," says Oliver Frör, ����ֱ�� Vice President for International Affairs, Sustainability, and Structural Development, describing the significance of the orientation program.

The basic orientation week will take place from December 8 to 12 in Kaiserslautern. It includes a five-day academic and cultural program. The ����ֱ�� provides support with travel planning and finding accommodation. Particularly talented applicants also receive financial support in the form of partial scholarships.

“In addition to direct applicants, German schools that cooperate with schools in other parts of the world and would like to pass on our offer are also welcome to contact us. We also welcome citizens who have family members abroad who are interested in studying STEM subjects,” explains Dr. Parya Memar, who heads the International Affairs Department at ����ֱ��.

Detailed information on the “����ֱ�� Young International Talent Program” and the link to the online application can be found on the following website: rptu.de/en/international/bachelor/rptu-young-international-talent-program
 

Questions can be directed to:

Dr. Parya Memar
International Affairs (RefIntA) at ����ֱ��

T +49 (0)631 205 4002
E parya.memar[at]rptu.de

Since 2018, the ����ֱ�� and the University of Nairobi, along with other project partners, have been working on a project focusing on the contamination of Kenyan soils and crops with aflatoxins. These moulds are highly toxic and carcinogenic to humans.

This cooperation began with the 'AflaZ' project. From 2024 to 2027, the follow-up project, 'SolFOOD', will build on the solutions already found and develop them further. Both projects aim to ensure food security in Kenya and improve soil quality through the use of biological agents. The current SolFOOD project is therefore making a significant contribution to public health.

'What makes this research project special is its solution-oriented approach. We have already minimised aflatoxin contamination in soil and during crop storage by training farmers. Now, in collaboration with our Kenyan and German colleagues, we are taking it a step further and working to find solutions for decontaminating contaminated crops," says Dr Katherine Muñoz Sepúlveda, a scientist at ����ֱ�� and part of the SolFOOD project.

The current scientific delegation consists of two doctoral students from the University of Nairobi and Professors Sheila Okoth (Biology) and David Kariuki (Chemistry). Alongside a soil chemistry laboratory course with Dr Dörte Diehl, they will collaborate with the Landau research team to explore ways to strengthen knowledge transfer between the two universities. While the professors will only stay at ����ֱ�� for ten days, the doctoral students will remain for a whole semester. In addition to their own doctoral studies, they will further advance the project through soil research in the ����ֱ�� laboratories in Landau.

“We already have a long-standing, successful partnership with the University of Nairobi. Now we want to expand it even further. An important step for us in deepening our cooperation is that we can now regularly support two doctoral students from the University of Nairobi,' says Dr Christian Dorsch, Head of Mobility Programmes at the ����ֱ��'s International Affairs Department.

The wet and cold autumn weather in Landau will probably be the biggest challenge for the delegation. Discussions between the Faculty of Environmental Sciences and the International Affairs Department are like consultations between good friends. They are characterised by mutual appreciation that has developed over many years of cooperation.

'Our soils and the staple food maize are heavily contaminated with toxic moulds in Kenya. This joint project is incredibly important for my country as it directly impacts food safety and public health," says Sheila Okoth. She adds that collaborating with the project partners in Germany is also crucial for her team. As well as ����ֱ��, these partners include the Julius Kühn Institute and the Max Rubner Institute, which coordinates the project. 'In addition to what we have already achieved together, the scientific exchange is of great importance to us and our students. For example, we will benefit from the ����ֱ��'s soil chemistry laboratory course in the environmental and soil chemistry working group at our university in Nairobi,” Okoth continues.

David Kariuki also emphasises the importance of the joint research project: 'The issue of food security has a direct impact on the population. Together, we have already developed solutions that we have successfully implemented within the community. For instance, we have provided training courses for farmers, teaching them how to assess their soil and recognise dangers.”

This project is a flagship initiative that translates scientific results into practical solutions through interdisciplinary and cross-institutional collaboration. The University of Nairobi and ����ֱ�� are working together in the field of soil health research. Interdisciplinary cooperation is already underway here, too. While the Environmental and Soil Chemistry working group conducts research on soil health, the Chemistry Education working group is responsible for research on risk literacy. The Julius Kühn Institute and the Kenyan project partner, the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), facilitate the transfer into practice. Funding for the project comes from the Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, while the university exchange is funded by the ERASMUS programme.

����ֱ�� is a key partner in the newly launched EU project PIONEER+ (“Pioneering Innovation & Entrepreneurship capacity building activities through Digital Transformation”). The project aims to transform universities across Europe into centers of excellence for digital innovation and entrepreneurial thinking. To achieve this, PIONEER+ adopts a holistic approach to innovation promotion, including enhanced technology transfer processes, mentoring programs, new curricula in AI and entrepreneurship, and the development of creative, AI-powered tools for startups.

Under the leadership of Ionian University in Greece, ����ֱ��’s Chair of Entrepreneurship and its Startup Office are working alongside eight partners from seven EU countries. ����ֱ��’s contributions focus on the development and evaluation of a methodology designed to foster spin-offs and startups originating from universities. The Business + Innovation Center Kaiserslautern (bic) is also involved as a regional partner.

Among other activities, the ����ֱ�� team will design and deliver courses on “AI in Innovation Management & Entrepreneurship,” integrating state-of-the-art AI tools into entrepreneurial education. In addition, the project partners plan to organize international summer schools to support technology-driven startups.

“With this project, we are exploring and developing new ways to strengthen science-based startups in Europe,” says project lead Professor Dennis Steininger, Chair of Entrepreneurship at ����ֱ��. He adds: “Digital technologies in particular offer new opportunities to transform research into entrepreneurial innovation – and with PIONEER+, we aim to harness this potential in a sustainable way.”

PIONEER+ is funded with nearly €1.5 million by the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), an independent EU body that promotes Europe’s ability to innovate and addresses key societal challenges. The project is part of the fourth call of the EIT HEI Initiative (Higher Education Initiative) and runs from 2025 to 2027.

More information:

Contact:

Prof. Dr. Dennis Steininger
Chair of Entrepreneurship
P: +49 631 205 2870
E: dennis.steininger@rptu.de

The challenge was taken up both within the university and by external supporters from the fields of science, business, culture, and politics. Contributions from Kaiserslautern and Landau showed that many members of the ����ֱ�� identify with the university's core values and wanted to make them visible to the outside world.

The accompanying video supported the communication of the campaign and helped to convey the central message across various channels. In this way, the ����ֱ��'s stance became visible both within the university community and in the public sphere.

“With the Stop Hand Challenge, we have deliberately sent a signal – both internally and externally,” said ����ֱ�� President Prof. Dr. Malte Drescher. “It makes clear what the ����ֱ�� stands for and what values guide our actions.”

The Stop Hand Challenge is part of the ����ֱ��'s ongoing activities to demonstrate the university's stance and take responsibility for an open, democratic, and diverse society.

At the core of this research is the human health: “With rapid advancements, especially in human-machine communication, the 6G technology opens up numerous groundbreaking applications in medicine,” explains Jan Herbst, member of the research team. “Focusing on effective preventive healthcare, we aim to enable doctors to monitor their patients’ health more efficiently and detect critical conditions and risks at an early stage.”

Aggregating Sensor Data Across Manufacturers

For their functional demonstrator, the researchers are integrating sensors commonly used in fitness trackers. The goal is to create a comprehensive, personalized image of an individual’s health. Thereby, the compatibility is a key aspect: Most sensors available on the market are manufacturer-specific, meaning they operate as closed systems which are not compatible with others. As a result, data remains isolated in separate silos – yet, when aggregated, it could be far more valuable.

Data Flow in a Closed Loop

To overcome this limitation, the researchers use specially developed Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs) as sensor carriers and collaborate with manufacturers that provide compatible sensors. Within the project, they are developing a network protocol that serves as the foundation for data exchange and aggregation across all system units. The network topology follows a ring layout: “In this setup, the sensors are connected in a closed loop, ensuring efficient and reliable data transmission. Each sensor communicates directly with its neighbor, resulting in low latency and high fault tolerance,” says Herbst.

Through this feasibility study, the researchers are laying the technological foundations for advanced patient monitoring, contributing to a future-proof, digital healthcare system.

Research Embedded in the "Open6GHub"

The demonstrator is being developed in the Open6GHub project in cooperation with the 6G Health project. The “Open6GHub” is coordinated by Professor Hans Dieter Schotten, Head of the Chair for Wireless Communication and Navigation at the ����ֱ�� and Head of the Intelligent Networks Research Department at the DFKI. In addition to the ����ֱ�� and the DFKI, other universities and research institutes are involved in the Open6GHub. The partners in this research network aim to contribute to the development of an overall 6G architecture and also to launch end-to-end solutions in the following areas, among others: extended network topologies with highly agile so-called organic networking, security and resilience, THz and photonic transmission methods, sensor functionalities in the networks and their intelligent use and further processing, and application-specific radio protocols. On this journey, the researchers are open to dialogue and cooperation: “We are seeking an early and interactive dialogue with the public and are equally willing to cooperate with industry and users,” says Schotten. “To this end, we are installing OpenLabs and open experimental fields. Last but not least, we want to promote an open innovation system by involving SMEs and start-ups and their results.”

Questions can be directed at:

Christoph Lipps
Lehrstuhl für Funkkommunikation und Navigation
P: +49 631 20575-5139
E: Christoph.Lipps(at)dfki.de

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Klaus Dosch, Department of Technology and Innovation, is organizing the presentation of the researchers of the ����ֱ�� Kaiserslautern at the fair. He is the contact partner for companies and, among other things, establishes contacts to science. Contact: Klaus Dosch, E-mail: Dosch(at)]rptu.de, Phone: +49 631 205-3001
 

Biosensors in personalised medicine, personal avatars for protection in road traffic or as support in the world of work, for example, could be used in the future – enabled by 6G technology. But 6G is also likely to play a key role in the realisation of climate targets.

“To bring together 6G research more effectively, we are working closely together within the platform,” says coordinator Professor Dr Hans Schotten, who heads the Institute of Radio Communication and Navigation at the University Kaiserslautern-Landau and the Intelligent Networks research department at the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI). “Our goals include improving cooperation with international partners, creating an innovation network for small and medium-sized companies and start-ups and training specialists who are familiar with the technology.”

Among other things, it is important that the technology functions safely and reliably. In this context, energy efficiency and sustainability are also important. Artificial intelligence, microelectronics, quantum technologies and digital twins, for example, are used to develop the new methods. 

In Germany, there are four large 6G research networks, known as hubs (Open6GHub, 6G-RIC, 6GEM and 6G-Life), and 18 6G projects involving partners from industry. There are also three AI-NET projects, which focus on automated, resilient and secure networks, and seven projects that deal with the resilience, meaning the reliability, of such networks. All of this work is being brought together in the 6G platform. This “Platform for Future Communication Technologies and 6G” is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). The project is coordinated by the University Kaiserslautern-Landau (Location Kaiserslautern). 

In addition to the University Kaiserslautern-Landau and the DFKI, the technical universities in Berlin and Dresden, the University of Bremen, the Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg, the Barkhausen Institute, the Institute for Automation and Communication (ifak) and the Fraunhofer Institute for Integrated Circuits IIS are also involved.

At this year's Hannover Messe, the 6G platform will present, alongside the associated research projects, the newly established "Start-Up Incubators" at two joint booths, which will feature their respective funded start-ups. Direct contact with interested stakeholders allows these young companies to take the step towards practical application and ensures visibility of their technical achievements among the relevant target audience.

Questions can be directed at:
Michael Karrenbauer
Institute of Radio Communication and Navigation / University Kaiserslautern-Landau (Location Kaiserslautern)
P: +49 631 205-2702
E: michael.karrenbauer(at)rptu.de
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Klaus Dosch, Department of Technology and Innovation, is organizing the presentation of the researchers of the ����ֱ�� Kaiserslautern at the fair. He is the contact partner for companies and, among other things, establishes contacts to science. Contact: Klaus Dosch, E-mail: Dosch(at)]rptu.de, Phone: +49 631 205-3001

Offene Digitalisierungsallianz Pfalz is further developing the regional innovation system, particularly with regard to digitalization. The future topics that the project partners are advancing include work, collaborative digital engineering, health, citizen science, and creativity.

Fostering Exchange in Both Directions

Offene Digitalisierungsallianz Pfalz sees itself as an interface between science, business, and society. "We create platforms to bring knowledge, ideas, and technologies from research into business and society. In return, we take current needs from business and society into account, thereby expanding our transfer offerings," explains Transfer Manager Chantal Momber, describing the goals of the collaboration.

Involving Citizens in Research

The transfer offerings especially include events with a focus on participatory formats. A recent example is the Citizen Science project "BewegungsForscher", in which citizens, together with researchers from ����ֱ�� and IVW, develop innovative orthoses – medical aids for everyday life. The goal has already been defined together: it is about a foot drop orthosis that provides support when lifting the foot and stabilizes walking.

The project uses intelligent composite materials that combine at least two materials together—so firmly that they cannot even be separated by hand. This opens up entirely new possibilities in the production of orthoses that are not only functional but also meet the highest standards of quality and comfort. In this case, the focus is on the orthosis' variable stiffness. In addition, participants will learn methods of "Design Thinking" to work together on innovative and creative solutions.
 

Question can be directed at:

Chantal Momber
Referat Transfer, Innovation und Nachhaltigkeit, ����ֱ�� University Kaiserslautern Landau
Transfer Manager at Offene Digitalisierungsallianz Pfalz
E: chantal.momber(at)rptu.de

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Klaus Dosch, Department of Technology and Innovation, is organizing the presentation of the researchers of the ����ֱ�� Kaiserslautern at the fair. He is the contact partner for companies and, among other things, establishes contacts to science. Contact: Klaus Dosch, E-mail: Dosch(at)]rptu.de, Phone: +49 631 205-3001

The project "KI4KMU-RLP," funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Transport, Agriculture, and Viticulture of Rhineland-Palatinate, bridges the gap between research and industry. To this end, the Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Production Systems at the ����ֱ�� University Kaiserslautern-Landau collaborates with the Fraunhofer Institutes for Experimental Software Engineering IESE and for Industrial Mathematics ITWM, as well as the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI). "The key issue is that SME often encounter difficulties when applying the latest AI technologies and therefore hesitate," explains Marco Hussong, research engineer at the FBK Institute. "They seek to identify the appropriate technologies, understand the necessary prerequisites and skill requirements, assess potential costs, and evaluate the expected economic benefits."

Applications Accepted Until Mid-June

The KI4KMU-RLP research team offers: Manufacturing SME can apply for participation in an AI potential analysis followed by the implementation of selected use cases. Marco Hussong is the contact person for interested companies. He emphasizes: “Many companies already possess extensive digitally available production-related data, which can serve as a valuable foundation for the application of artificial intelligence. These are exactly the types of SME we are looking for to participate in the research project. Other criteria for participation include that the company is based in Rhineland-Palatinate and that the companies are motivated to use AI, or ideally, have already defined possible areas of application." The application phase has started and will run until June 15, 2025.

Support Until the Development of a Demonstrator

How is the project structured? The goal of the project is to conceptualize and implement use cases proposed by manufacturing SME. Therefore, the project is divided into a two-step process. In the first phase, planned to begin in mid-2025, the potential analysis will take place. For the subsequent implementation phase in the second project year (2026), companies that not only meet the basic selection criteria but also present their own implementation ideas within the potential analysis phase qualify. Each of them will be professionally supported by one of the four research partners all the way to the implementation of a demonstrator. " The use cases developed over the course of the project are intended to serve as compelling showcases, aimed at encouraging other SME to explore and adopt artificial intelligence solutions,” summarizes Marco Hussong.
 

Questions can be directed at:

Marco Hussong 
Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Production Systems
����ֱ�� University Kaiserslautern-Landau 
T: +49 631 205-4305
E: marco.hussong(at)rptu.de

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Klaus Dosch, Department of Technology and Innovation, is organizing the presentation of the researchers of the ����ֱ�� Kaiserslautern at the fair. He is the contact partner for companies and, among other things, establishes contacts to science. Contact: Klaus Dosch, E-mail: Dosch(at)]rptu.de, Phone: +49 631 205-3001

A crane truck that independently picks up tree trunks. A semi-autonomous excavator that excavates a pit as if by magic. A drilling crawler operating on a steep slope that sets anchor points for slope stabilization without human intervention. A Unimog that paves its way through difficult terrain. A rescue robot that autonomously surveys the situation and locates victims in disaster areas. These are just five examples of developments that Professor Karsten Berns' research group at the Robotics Research Laboratory is working on. Mowing vehicles and agricultural machines are also part of the research objects.

"Automation or partial automation has the potential to relieve humans in tasks that require continuous high concentration and specialized know-how," explains the computer scientist. "Additionally, autonomous machines could be an answer to the growing shortage of skilled workers."

Additional capabilities onboard

What do these autonomous vehicles have that others don’t? Thanks to methods for environmental sensing, adaptive control architectures, and human-machine interaction approaches, they can autonomously perform a wide variety of tasks. They are equipped with camera and sensor systems as well as significant computational power. "Stereo cameras and laser technology enable transport and work machines to recognize and capture their environment," says Sascha Steffens. "Artificial intelligence, specifically deep learning methods, are used to classify the flood of measurement data and help with sorting."

Practical transfer possible?

Research shows that there is potential in autonomous and semi-autonomous transport and work machines; technically, automation is already feasible. What is needed for these intelligent commercial vehicles to roll off the production line in series? "There are three key requirements: advancing the know-how transfer into the commercial vehicle industry, clarifying the basic legal, particularly insurance-related, questions surrounding autonomous driving, and making the necessary components more affordable," summarizes Karsten Berns.

For those interested in learning more about the projects of the Chair of Robotics Systems at Hannover Messe: Video presentations make various trials with the autonomous off-road vehicles tangible. Additionally, the rescue robot named "SUGV1" is displayed at the stand.

Questions can be directed at:
Sascha Steffens
Robotics Research Laboratory, ����ֱ�� Kaiserslautern-Landau 
T: +49 631 205-3273
E: sascha.steffens@cs.rptu.de
W: rrlab.cs.rptu.de
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Klaus Dosch, Department of Technology and Innovation, is organizing the presentation of the researchers of the ����ֱ�� Kaiserslautern at the fair. He is the contact partner for companies and, among other things, establishes contacts to science. Contact: Klaus Dosch, E-mail: Dosch(at)]rptu.de, Phone: +49 631 205-3001

Practical and Flexible Study

"The interdisciplinary focus of the continuing education distance learning programme enables professionals to bridge different fields, develop innovative solutions, and prepare them for the digital future," explains program manager and sports scientist Eva Bartaguiz. "Throughout their studies, distance learners will engage with topics such as data processing, artificial intelligence, human-machine interaction, biomechanics, sports medicine, statistics, and project management. They will also learn how to conduct testing procedures and develop data-driven training and therapy recommendations, all with an emphasis on practical applications, particularly the use of sensor-based training devices and diagnostic procedures."

The four-semester German-language distance learning programme combines scientific and practical components from sports, health, and computer science in a balanced manner. It is aimed at all those interested in understanding innovative technologies in sports and health, connecting computer science with sports and health sciences, and applying what they learn in a professional context within the sports and health sector. The studies are part-time, predominantly location- and time-independent, allowing learners to integrate the coursework flexibly into their daily lives.

The design and development of the programme were funded by the Rhineland-Palatinate Ministry of Science and Health and the Rhineland-Palatinate Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs, Transformation and Digitization with 268,000 Euro from the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) between July 1, 2022 and September 30, 2024.

Distance Learning at ����ֱ��

With currently around 30 part-time Master's programmes and certificate courses, ����ֱ�� is one of the most renowned distance learning providers at a German public university. The continuing education offerings cover social, business, legal, natural, and engineering sciences. Distance learners at ����ֱ�� acquire the skills and qualifications necessary to keep pace with new and changing demands in the job market. In addition to the Master's programme "Sports and Health Technology," the current winter semester also sees the launch of the Master's programme "Quantum Technologies," which deepens knowledge in the field of quantum technologies. Starting in the winter semester of 2025/26, the programme “Sustainable Architecture and Technology” will also expand the range of courses on offer.

Questions can be directed to:

Eva Bartaguiz, M. Sc.
Distance and Independent Studies Center (DISC) / ����ֱ�� in Kaiserslautern

P: +49 631 205-4122
E: eva.bartaguiz[at]rptu.de
W: fernstudium.rptu.de

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Klaus Dosch, Department for Transfer, Innovation and Sustainability, is organizing the presentation of the researchers of the ����ֱ�� Kaiserslautern at the Medica. He is the contact partner for companies and, among other things, establishes contacts to science. Contact: Klaus Dosch, E-mail: klaus.dosch@rptu.de, Phone: +49 631 205-3001

The software platform assists companies in efficiently managing their inventory systems. "Tools like Excel and simple statistical models have long reached their limits," says Daniel Antonatus of Crateflow. "They are inaccurate, non-transparent, and lead to costly overstock, tied-up capital, and inefficient processes. In times of global uncertainty and fluctuating demand, new approaches are needed."

Beyond demand and procurement planning, companies can leverage the strategic Control Tower to gain a comprehensive overview of their supply chain and make intelligent, data-driven decisions in real time. The AI-powered forecasts integrate these insights directly into operations. This enables effective adjustments to inventory holding, sales, and production strategies, maximizing both customer satisfaction and resource efficiency. All modules of the solution are unified on a cloud-based platform that provides seamless interfaces to internal systems and ensures automated real-time processing.

Combining AI with expert knowledge

How does Crateflow's solution work? The infrastructure consists of forecasting models that the founders tailor to specific user scenarios. The software requires internal company data as input, such as from ERP or CRM systems (Enterprise Resource Planning; Customer Relationship Management). The AI analyzes vast amounts of data and incorporates external factors like the price fluctuations of various raw materials, inflation, freight costs, consumer indices, or even the weather. Additionally, the "What-if" system enables companies to explore different scenarios to make informed decisions for the future. "We believe that combining AI with human expert knowledge fundamentally changes how companies manage their supply chains—moving towards long-term efficiency and profitability in a rapidly changing world," says Markus Heidt, co-founder of Crateflow.

Through the software platform, companies not only receive more precise demand forecasts but also gain the flexibility to react immediately to unforeseen events. The solution is to comply with data protection regulations, can be seamlessly integrated into existing systems, and creates significant added value: With Crateflow, companies can reduce their inventory by up to 40%, increase free cash flow by up to 15%, and boost sales by up to 20%.

Enabling full transparency

Another technical highlight of Crateflow is the platform's high transparency and explainability. Companies can trace exactly which factors influence demand for each individual item – including rising raw material prices, seasonal fluctuations, or the negative impact of inflation on investments. Crateflow also uses prediction intervals, allowing supply chain experts to better understand the scope and uncertainty of the AI models. At any time, it is evident how confident the AI model is in a forecast. Crateflow does not provide a black box but offers transparent and explainable data.

About the start-up project

Since February 2024, Markus Heidt and Daniel Antonatus, both graduates of ����ֱ�� (formerly University of Kaiserslautern), have been supported by the EXIST Founder Scholarship from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action and the European Social Fund. Markus brings extensive experience as a Data Scientist at Lidl in forecasting and inventory management, while Daniel worked as a management consultant at PwC in project and risk management. The positive response to their idea led to the founding of Crateflow GmbH. The Chair of Entrepreneurship at ����ֱ��, led by Professor Dennis Steininger, supports the founders with professional expertise and provides them with office space. Additionally, the Digital Hub Worms and the Digital Hub Karlsruhe supplement this support with additional resources and know-how.

Questions can be directed to:

Markus Heidt

T: +49 176 20203286
E: markus.heidt[at]crateflow.ai
W:

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Daniel Antonatus

T: +49 176 61333036
E: daniel.antonatus[at]crateflow.ai
W:

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Klaus Dosch, Department for Transfer, Innovation and Sustainability, is organizing the presentation of the researchers of the ����ֱ�� Kaiserslautern at the Medica. He is the contact partner for companies and, among other things, establishes contacts to science.
Contact: Klaus Dosch, E-mail: klaus.dosch@rptu.de, Phone: +49 631 205-3001

Ana Paz is a professor in the field of teacher training for cultural education. In Portugal, this includes the training of art and music teachers in public and private institutions, as well as the training of museum staff. She currently works and researches in this field at the University of Lisbon. For the past six months, she has swapped the Portuguese city for Landau in the southern Palatinate. In her small, cozy office, where books about the great thinkers of history fill the shelves, Ana Paz stands in front of a whiteboard. As in an American detective story, the board is covered with portraits of various people, notes with brief information, a map of Landau, and pictures of venerable churches. The clues are neatly connected by a thread. "Each of these clues has a connection to da Motta," Ana Paz explains with a smile. Her eyes sparkle with enthusiasm as she begins to talk about da Motta.

His life is the subject of her research

She speaks of the famous pianist and composer, who was born on the small island of São Tomé in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, just off the coast of Africa, as if he were a good old friend. "José Vianna da Motta said of himself that he was half German, at least that's how he felt. He arrived in Berlin at the age of 14. He was already an outstanding pianist, having studied at the Lisbon Conservatory under the protection and support of Ferdinand II. Prince Ferdinand of Coburg-Saxony (1816-1885) was the second husband of the Portuguese Queen and a great lover of the arts. For this reason, he is affectionately known in Portugal as the "Artist King".

In Berlin, he was taught by famous pianists and composers. From there, he embarked on a series of concert tours, stopping in various German cities for master classes, including Koblenz, Frankfurt (Main) and Bingen. "For me, it is important to immerse myself in the stages of his life here in order to understand how they shaped and changed his later work at the Lisbon Conservatory and his understanding of music education."

Did da Motta also spend time in Landau? "No," says the pedagogue with a smile, "but I wanted to do research with Professor Angelo Van Gorp." The vice dean of the Institute of Educational Sciences at the ����ֱ�� Landau is also the head of the international research group HEC (History of Educational Ecologies). This is a European group of scholars working to put education and upbringing into historical context. "In research on the history of educational ecologies, the spaces in which education takes place and the connections to other domains and areas of life, both to people and to materials, play a role," Paz explains. The European research group focuses on what divides and unites Europe in the field of teaching, education and training.

There is a scholar, highly educated pianist, composer and later piano teacher who feels at home in two European countries, a very interesting character. "That alone doesn't make him exciting. What makes him special is the source material, which is so good that we have a very precise description of his life and work. His extensive correspondence with Ferruccio Busoni, an Italian pianist, has been preserved for posterity. The same goes for his thoughts and memories of Hans von Bülow's master class, in which he participated". This allows the researcher to delve deeply into his life and understand the context of his own education and subsequent teaching career.

Humboldt fellowship takes the pressure off

"I feel very lucky to be able to do research here in peace. Even when da Motta is not in Landau, I can easily reach many of his places from here," she says. I have the Humboldt Foundation to thank for my good fortune. The fellowship allows me to concentrate fully on my research," she says happily.

Finding time for research at home in Portugal is difficult. "As a professor at the University of Lisbon, I have two main responsibilities: research and teaching. I spend about two-thirds of my working time on teaching. I teach, supervise students, prepare and follow up on seminars, and give academic advice. There is hardly any time left for my own research. She is all the more pleased to be able to concentrate fully on her fieldwork in Landau on da Motta's life in Germany, under the supervision of one of the leading scholars in the field of historical educational research, Angelo Van Gorp. The professor is a scout in the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation's Henriette Herz Scouting Program. "Being a member of this program is an honor for me and for the ����ֱ��. It is awarded exclusively to professors working in Germany who have a strong research, international and innovative profile. As a member, I can also propose suitable candidates for a Humboldt Research Fellowship. In this way, I was able to give Ana Paz the opportunity to continue her research here, which is very important for the HEC project," explains Van Gorp.

Ana Paz runs her finger thoughtfully over the notes and photos pinned to the whiteboard, marking the stages of her life. "It is a bit tragic for me and it remains a strange feeling that many of the places da Motta talks about in his letters are simply no longer there because they were destroyed in the war. I don't know that about Portugal. And even if I knew that, of course it feels strange to suddenly stand in front of nothing instead of a concert hall, a music school or something like that. Just as the threads on the whiteboard connect things, Paz's case study seeks to connect da Motta to his historical contemporaries, such as von Bülow, Franz Liszt, or Walter Benjamin, by following the same paths. She uses the knowledge gained to understand how he was able to develop into a revolutionary pedagogue.

"When I return to Lisbon after this six-month stay, I will have a lot of new insights in my luggage, I will have discovered new connections and I will have already put it all down on paper," enthuses the likeable scholar. "Landau is the perfect place for that: it's beautiful and quiet. It is the ideal place to write a book.

Text: Miriam Tsolakidis

With the renewal of the agreements, the ����ֱ�� in Landau can once again submit applications for funding to collaborate with the UB. This heralds the next step in this successful partnership, in which both universities strongly believe, as David Norris, UB's Vice Chancellor, and Gabriele E. Schaumann, ����ֱ��'s Co-President, confirmed at the signing ceremony. “Such a long duration for a single exchange partnership in the humanities, with 120 people involved so far and a continuous funding volume of almost 500,000 euros, is exceptional," explains Christian Dorsch from the International Affairs Office. The strong bond of friendship that has grown between Landau and Gaborone over the years is also supported by the fact that it has not been damaged by the restrictions caused by the Corona pandemic and continues to flourish even after the initiators retired, thanks to new, committed coordinators. 

"The times are gone when students were only interested in England, Australia or the USA as English-speaking countries, and Anglophone countries in Africa are prominent topics in the English classes at German schools now," says Frank Polzenhagen, Professor of English Linguistics at ����ֱ�� and coordinator of the program with UB. The exchange with Southern Africa is an answer to this demand and prepares teacher students for it. "We have already been able to equip more than 40 teachers with this special experience for their classes." Fellow coordinator Professor Mompoloki Bagwasi shares Polzenhagen's enthusiasm for the exchange program. In her department, there is a real competition among lecturers to have the German students in their seminars. "They always bring a breath of fresh air to the classroom," she says. And the students from Botswana continue to bring fresh ideas to the classroom when they return.

During their week-long visit to Landau and Kaiserslautern, the eight-member UB delegation met with various departments at ����ֱ�� in Landau and Kaiserslautern and explored opportunities for research collaboration. "We find the intersection of social and educational sciences with technical issues exciting," said UB Vice Chancellor Norris. Technological innovation includes social innovation. "Our government expects us as a university to contribute to society," Norris continues. He sees great potential for exciting collaborative projects.

The University of Botswana was established as an independent institution in 1982. Its main campus is located in the capital Gaborone, with additional campuses in Francistown and Maun. UB has played a formative role in the development of the education system in Botswana, which has only been independent since 1966. Originally, teacher training was one of its core missions. Today, it is a full-fledged university, and, with about 16,000 students and almost 2,700 staff, it is comparable in size to ����ֱ��. Unlike ����ֱ��, UB also has a university hospital. A delegation from the ����ֱ��, led by Co-President Gabriele Schaumann, could get an impression of the wide array of subjects offered at UB. During this visit at the end of June 2024, the renewed Memorandum of Understanding was signed.

A one-tier education system, schedules that are the same every day for half a year and then change, tons of sports and leisure activities: the American education system is very different from the German one. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. So it can be worthwhile for prospective teachers to broaden their horizons. Since 2019, ����ֱ�� and its partner, East Stroudsburg University (ESU) in Pennsylvania, offer study trips for field experience in the USA.

From September 16^th to October 14^th, 17 students from Landau and Kaiserslautern will travel to the partner university in the USA, live in a dormitory on campus, visit local partner schools and sit in classes. "As a future teacher, you should be familiar with the school systems and cultures of other countries, and this program is the perfect opportunity to experience that, broaden your knowledge, and be inspired by American teachers," says Jasmina Frauendorf. The student was at ESU with the program in 2023.

"More at eye level"

The students who go to Pennsylvania are expected to at least sit in on classes at local schools. But if they show enough initiative, they can also discuss with their mentors whether they can teach a lesson themselves. This was the experience of Philipp Klotz, who was at the ESU in 2019 when the students from the University of Landau first traveled to Pennsylvania. "I found everyone to be very open, the lessons were not conducted in a strictly structured way, and we had the opportunity to get involved," recalls the 27-year-old, who is studying to become a high school English and social studies teacher. At the time, Klotz was able to teach independently and answer questions from students who were not used to having visitors from another continent.

The exchange program was put on hold in 2020 and 2021 due to the coronavirus pandemic. For the past two years, students have returned to Pennsylvania. Klotz went both years, so he has now completed the program three times. One thing he has always enjoyed is the friendly way the teachers interact with the students. This is a trait he hopes to take with him when he starts his own career next year after completing his master's degree. "The teachers there are more on an equal footing with the students than they are here. They are the go-to people for everything that goes wrong in class, in other subjects, and sometimes in your personal life. I want to use that as a guide," he says. The hospitality he experienced during his trips to the United States has also impressed him. "For example, the dean invited us to a barbecue one evening. There are many opportunities to socialize outside the university and the school

Open to all teacher education students

The idea for this special exchange program came from Sebastian Beckmann, a lecturer at ����ֱ��’s Landau campus. Since then, the program has become institutionalized and is coordinated by the Center for Teacher Education at ����ֱ�� in Landau in collaboration with the International Affairs Office and English Studies Department. "Applicants must be interested in gaining practical teaching experience abroad and developing their intercultural skills," explains Dr. Katharina Gierl, who coordinates the program today. "They should also be interested in topics such as interculturality, education for sustainable development and diversity, and have at least an intermediate level of English."

All ����ֱ�� teacher students could apply, not just those studying foreign languages. Gierl and her colleagues made sure that there was a balance between all subjects and school types in the selection process, and that students from both Landau and Kaiserslautern received places. This year, for the first time, the ����ֱ��, through a collaboration between the International Affairs Office and the Center for Teacher Education, awarded a 1,400 euros scholarship for the trip from Santander Universities, a support program of Santander Germany.

American Exchange Group in Germany for a Second Time

In May, ESU students spent two weeks in Germany for the second time. Three U.S. students each attended Otto-Hahn-Gymnasium (OHG) and Konrad-Adenauer-Realschule plus (Kars) in Landau. Depending on which subjects and school types are suitable for the exchange students from the U.S., they may be placed in other schools in Landau and Kaiserslautern in the future.

Aubrey Sawyer participated in this exchange. The ESU student said her time in Landau gave her a new perspective on education. "I only knew about the education system in Pennsylvania. It was a great experience to get to know the system in Germany through my school visits in Landau." Aubrey is certain that the things she learned and the connections she made in Landau have helped and will help her on her path to becoming a teacher. As a future teacher, she feels it is her duty to ensure that her students receive the best education possible. "I believe you never stop learning. Everyone can benefit from that experience. I met so many great people, learned so much about German culture and a different school system, and made unforgettable memories. I am very grateful for this experience," she says.

Gain intercultural experience

An important point for the exchange in the so-called buddy system. "The program is not only about gaining practical school experience, but also intercultural experience. The former participants help to design the program for the exchange students from the other country and thus enable them to get to know the culture of the other country," emphasizes Gierl.

As a research assistant, Klotz is also part of the buddy system. Since 2022, he has been helping with the preparation and follow-up of the exchange, both in September in the U.S. and in May in Germany. When the American guests visit Germany, he is there to support them.

In addition to experiencing different teaching styles, the focus of the visits is always on getting to know the other culture. "For example, we have planned trips to Heidelberg, Strasbourg, or Hambach Castle to show the historical aspect of democracy in Germany," says Klotz.

Lecturers also want to network

In the future, the two universities also want to network at the lecturer level. According to Gierl, many synergies have been created in recent years. For example, there are ideas for applications for students with limited mobility, who should be given the opportunity for international exchange in virtual form. In the future, the two universities also want to cooperate more in the area of science and research.

Text: Felix Schönhöfer

The project 'KTUR2: Boosting Trinational Innovation' brings together science and business to map the region's innovation ecosystem, understand the needs of its stakeholders and identify existing barriers. By developing best practices, the Upper Rhine region aims to become an internationally visible beacon for innovation and start-ups, with sustainable improvements in their financing.

“Our ecosystem already offers a lot of support for start-ups, but in a 2022 study we showed that venture capital in particular is lacking in the region," says ����ֱ�� project manager Professor Dennis Steininger. He emphasises the importance of the project: “We know from research that a lack of financial resources is one of the most important factors in the failure of innovation and start-up projects. This project is therefore a crucial milestone in our joint efforts to gain a better understanding of the financing of technological innovation and to strengthen and internationalise the start-up ecosystem in the region.”

About the consortium

In addition to numerous associated partners, the project is supported by the following key partners:

• ����ֱ�� University Kaiserslautern-Landau
• Université de Strasbourg
• Université de Haute Alsace
• Karlsruher Institut für Technologie
• Universität Basel
• Universität Freiburg
• SATT Conectus Alsace
• Grand E-Nov Plus
• Chambre de Commerce et d'Industrie Alsace Eurométropole
• Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft
• Hochschule Offenburg
• Hochschule Karlsruhe
• Duale Hochschule Baden-Württemberg, Standort Lörrach
• Hochschule Furtwangen
• Hochschule Kaiserslautern
• Fachhochschule Nordwestschweiz

About the funding programme

The KTUR2 project is supported by the Interreg VI Upper Rhine Programme 2021-2027 and co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). With a total budget of €5,682,940, it represents a significant investment in the future of the region.

More details about the project can be found on the .