Helena van Vorst

Dr. Helena van Vorst is a faculty member in the Department of Chemistry Didactics at the University of Duisburg-Essen, within the Faculty of Chemistry. She completed her habilitation in January 2024, solidifying her role as an independent academic leader. She previously served as Acting Professor at the University of Cologne and currently holds the civil service position of Academic Councillor, equivalent to Associate Professor. She is also Managing Director of the Society for Chemistry and Physics Education (GDCP) since 2022 and an elected board member of the Interdisciplinary Center for Educational Research.

• Doctorate (Dr. rer. nat.) in Natural Sciences, summa cum laude, University of Duisburg-Essen (2012)
• First State Examination in Chemistry and German for Secondary Education, University of Duisburg-Essen (2009)
• Habilitation in Chemistry Didactics, University of Duisburg-Essen (2024)

Her research centers on improving science education through evidence-based methods. Key interests include context-oriented teaching, where real-world scenarios increase student engagement; structuring learning via 'Lernleitern' (learning ladders) to scaffold understanding; and promoting inclusion in chemistry classrooms. She emphasizes empirical evaluation of teaching innovations and the development of differentiated materials that cater to diverse student needs and interests.

The recent publications reflect a strong focus on the effectiveness of structured, context-rich teaching tools. A recurring theme is the use of 'learning ladders' to organize instruction and support differentiation. Studies analyze how context characteristics influence student interest and performance, particularly across gender and cognitive dimensions. Other works explore challenges in scientific language, mathematical modeling in physical chemistry, and inquiry-based learning in inclusive settings. The body of work demonstrates a consistent commitment to bridging theory and practice in chemistry education.

• Fellow of the Fellowship Program MINT Didactics, Deutsche Telekom Foundation (2018–2023)
• University Prize for Outstanding Academic Achievements, University of Duisburg-Essen (2013)
• Waxmann Poster Prize, AEPF Conference (2011)
• First Prize in Chemistry Program, First State Examination (2010)
• Doctoral Scholarship, German Research Foundation (DFG) (2010–2012)

Dr. van Vorst advises multiple doctoral students across funded projects, including those supported by the Mercator Foundation, Chemical Industry Fund, and RAG Foundation. Her leadership in the Graduate School on Cross-Sectional Issues in Teacher Education (GKqL) and subprojects under Teaching-Learning-Innovations at UDE highlights her active role in shaping teacher training. She develops and disseminates teaching materials, such as digital learning ladders and context-based units on acids and bases, contributing directly to classroom practice.

She leads and contributes to research teams focused on inclusive science education, teacher development, and curriculum innovation. Her work with the Interdisciplinary Center for Educational Research and the Society for Chemistry and Physics Education underscores her collaborative and organizational leadership in the academic community.