Maximilian von Grafenstein

Maximilian von Grafenstein is a Professor for "Digital Self-Determination" at the Berlin Career College of the University of the Arts in Berlin (UdK), which is part of the Einstein Center Digital Future (ECDF). He also serves as co-head of the research program "Data, Actors, Infrastructures: Governance of Data-Driven Innovation and Cybersecurity" at the Alexander von Humboldt Institute for Internet and Society (HIIG). His academic work bridges law, technology, and governance, with a particular focus on creating frameworks for responsible data utilization in public and private sectors.

Professor von Grafenstein's research focuses on the regulation of data-driven innovation with special emphasis on "Data Protection and Security by Design." His work spans several key areas:

• Data Governance frameworks for public administration and smart cities
• Privacy and security by design implementation
• GDPR compliance mechanisms and certification
• Transparency tools like privacy icons
• Digital self-determination in the context of emerging technologies

His recent publications reveal strong trends in municipal data governance, with a focus on practical implementation frameworks for local governments. His work bridges theoretical legal concepts with practical implementation challenges, particularly in the context of smart city development and public sector digital transformation. A significant portion of his research addresses the tension between innovation and regulatory compliance, seeking balanced approaches that protect fundamental rights while enabling technological advancement.

• Vice President of the Academic Board of the European Association of Data Protection Professionals (EADPP) since September 2019
• Developer of the "Data Governance Wegweiser" for municipalities
• Expert advisor to the German Bundestag's Digital Committee
• Regular speaker at international data protection conferences including CPDP and Bitkom

Professor von Grafenstein has been actively involved in mentoring through the HIIG Startup Law Clinic, where he assisted over 100 startup entrepreneurs in solving legal issues related to their product and business model innovations. His entrepreneurial experience includes founding MAUERSCHAU in 2013, a mobile augmented reality app providing location-based access to cultural content, and INNOVATION AND LAW, which specializes in privacy and security-by-design solutions.