Rainer Sibbel is a Professor of International Health Management at the Frankfurt School of Finance & Management since October 2004. He serves as Academic Director of the MBA in International Hospital and Healthcare Management and heads the Institute for International Health Management. His work bridges healthcare systems with business administration principles. Mathematics, Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster (1987-1993) Doctor of Business Administration, University of Münster (1997) Habilitation in Operations Management, Bayreuth University (2004) Sibbel’s research focuses on process optimization in healthcare, capacity planning, and strategic management. He explores the intersection of operations research, supply chain management, and healthcare economics, with recent studies on patient orientation in health system reforms and digital transformation in hospital logistics. His affiliations include memberships in the German Academic Association for Business Research, Association for Operations Research (GOR), and International Hospital Federation (IHF). He has contributed to numerous academic journals and edited volumes, particularly on clinical pathway management, procurement systems, and performance measurement in hospitals.
Thorsten Koch is a Professor for Software and Algorithms for Discrete Optimization at Technische Universität Berlin , with multiple leadership roles including Head of the Applied Algorithmic Intelligence Methods (A²IM) , Digital Data and Information for Society, Science, and Culture (D²IS²C) , Kooperativer Bibliotheksverbund Berlin-Brandenburg (KOBV) , and Forschungs- und Kompetenzzentrum Digitalisierung Berlin (digiS) . Based at Zuse Institute Berlin and affiliated with TU Berlin's Institute for Mathematics, he focuses on integrating mathematical optimization with high-performance computing and artificial intelligence to solve complex real-world problems. Research Pillars : Mathematical optimization algorithms Quantum computing applications AI/ML integration in decision systems Energy systems optimization Scientific software development Leadership Roles : Head of Applied Algorithmic Intelligence Methods (A²IM) Head of Digital Data & Information for Society, Science, and Culture (D²IS²C) Head of Kooperativer Bibliotheksverbund Berlin-Brandenburg (KOBV) Head of Forschungs- und Kompetenzzentrum Digitalisierung Berlin (digiS) Key Collaborations : Working with IBM Quantum on quantum optimization Collaborating across institutions for energy system modeling Developing open-source optimization tools like SCIP Contributing to digital library infrastructure Recent Research Trends : Quantum optimization benchmarking Machine learning-aided optimization Multi-objective decision frameworks Energy infrastructure optimization Adaptive algorithm design CO2 network modeling Impact : Advancing hybrid optimization methods Developing open-source tools for scientific computing Building digital infrastructures for libraries and research Exploring quantum-classical algorithm synergies
Eva Artinger is a Researcher at the Chair for Computer Aided Medical Procedures & Augmented Reality within the Faculty of Informatics at Technical University of Munich . Her work focuses on Human-Computer Interaction with specific emphasis on Multitouch and gestural User Interfaces , Information Visualization , and Tangible User Interfaces . Current position: Researcher at TUM Degree: Master of Science Her research particularly addresses the challenges of designing user interfaces for emergency response systems , including applications for Mass Casualty Incidents (MCIs) where she has developed innovative map interaction techniques and gesture-based text input systems like Gestyboard 2.0. Eva has contributed to multiple publications analyzing usability in high-stress environments and exploring interaction paradigms for augmented reality applications in medical and architectural contexts. Her recent work has focused on designing interfaces that maintain functionality while being operated in unstable conditions, with research trends showing increasing specialization in emergency response UI/UX , mobile device interaction , and real-time data visualization . Eva has also been actively involved in teaching activities at TUM, covering topics in Augmented Reality applications and Human-Computer Interaction for both desktop and mobile platforms.
Christian Bierwirth is a Professor of Business Administration, specializing in Production and Logistics, at the Faculty of Law, Economics and Business, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg. He holds the Chair of Production and Logistics and has been in this role since 2003. His academic journey includes a PhD (1992) and Habilitation (1999) in Logistics from the University of Bremen, and prior teaching roles at TU Dresden, University Rennes I, and as Acting Professor in Halle-Wittenberg (2002-2003). Education: Mathematics and Philosophy (1981-1988) at Heidelberg University Key Research Areas: Scheduling Algorithms, Port Logistics, Vehicle Routing, Optimization, Production Management Current Contact: christian.bierwirth@wiwi.uni-halle.de | Office: Room 312, Große Steinstraße 73, Halle (Saale) His research focuses on operational optimization in logistics systems, including container terminal operations , green transportation , and job shop scheduling . Recent work addresses environmental sustainability through emission-minimizing routing and eco-labeling of freight services. He pioneered GRASP and genetic algorithm applications in dynamic manufacturing environments. Publications span maritime logistics (berth allocation, crane scheduling), intermodal transport networks, and supply chain design under constraints. Notable contributions include integrated planning frameworks for production-distribution networks and synchronization models for logistics vehicles. Since joining Halle-Wittenberg, he has led teaching and research initiatives in logistics, contributing to national and international academic discourse through publications and conference participation.
Thorsten A. Kern is Professor and Director of the Institute of Mechatronics in Mechanical Engineering at Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH). He joined TUHH in January 2019 after serving as R&D manager for interior components at Continental, leading a team of 300 engineers worldwide. From January 2023 to January 2025, he served as Dean of the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, and is elected to serve as Vice President for Teaching and Learning from October 2025 to October 2028. Since 2022, he has been Vice President of the EuroHaptics Society. Dipl.-Ing. (2002), Darmstadt University of Technology Dr.-Ing. (2006), Darmstadt University of Technology Prof. Kern's research focuses on electromagnetic sensors and actuators, particularly their system integration in high-dynamic applications. His work spans human-machine interfaces, haptic devices, and the intersection of technology with arts. He has a strong interest in medical applications including robotic rehabilitation systems, wearable exoskeletons, and telemanipulation systems. His research also extends to maritime applications, including ship energy systems and ocean monitoring technologies. Prof. Kern's recent publications reveal a strong focus on haptic interfaces, rehabilitation robotics, and maritime energy systems. His work combines theoretical modeling with practical implementation, often involving interdisciplinary teams. There's a clear trajectory toward tele-rehabilitation systems with haptic feedback, maritime power systems optimization, and novel sensor development. His research demonstrates consistent integration of mechanical, electrical, and control engineering principles to solve complex real-world problems. Over 30 patent families with >120 patent applications worldwide Main editor of "Engineering Haptic Devices" (3rd edition) Vice President of EuroHaptics Society (since 2022) Prof. Kern shows a strong passion for entrepreneurship and mentors young people through the Impossible Founders network. He actively supports students in IP-oriented exploitation of research findings, leveraging his extensive patent experience. His research is supported by various projects in haptics, mechatronics, and rehabilitation engineering, with collaborations spanning academia and industry. Prof. Kern leads the Institute of Mechatronics in Mechanical Engineering (M-4) at TUHH, which houses specialized laboratories including the Haptics Lab, PHiLsLab (Power Hardware-in-the-Loop Laboratory), and Optics Lab (Goniometer Laboratory for Measuring Light Fields). His research team includes multiple research assistants and doctoral students working on electrical measuring systems, autonomous multi-sensor drifters, SMART Sensor Particles, and human-machine collaboration projects.
Stephan Hankammer serves as Professor for Sustainable Management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Alanus University of Arts and Society, where he also holds the position of Pro-Dean of the Business Department. He leads the Sustainable Business program, teaching courses in Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Sustainability Management, and Innovation Management. His research focuses on business models that actively contribute to the regeneration of ecological and social systems within planetary boundaries, moving beyond mere sustainability toward restorative business practices. Hankammer completed his doctoral studies at RWTH Aachen University with a focus on collaborative value creation from a sustainability perspective. He co-founded and serves as Scientific Director of the Institute for Regenerative Management (REGWI), a research institute affiliated with Alanus University. His academic background includes interdisciplinary studies in European Studies and Philosophy at Philipps-Universität Marburg and Business Administration at Westfälische Wilhelms-Universität Münster, with additional studies in Spain through ERASMUS and DAAD scholarships. Hankammer's research examines four key areas: the role of collaboration between stakeholders in sustainable business models, regenerative business principles that actively improve ecosystems, the dual challenge of digital and sustainable transformation, and business models that place the common good at their center. His work bridges academic research with practical applications, focusing on how businesses can transform to operate within planetary boundaries while serving societal needs. His publication record shows consistent output in high-impact journals such as Journal of Cleaner Production and Journal of Business Economics, with research themes centered on sustainable business models, degrowth economics, and the intersection of mass customization with sustainability. His work demonstrates a clear progression from examining sustainable business practices toward more transformative regenerative business models. Best paper presentation award at European Roundtable for Sustainable Consumption and Production Conference (ERSCP) 2017 Hankammer actively advises students and collaborates on research projects including "Industry 4.0 from a Sustainability Perspective" and "Regenerative Business Models" with multiple social impact companies. He serves on the editorial board of the International Journal of Sustainable Design and regularly reviews for prominent sustainability journals. At Alanus University, Hankammer leads the Chair for Sustainable Management, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, which focuses on developing conditions, logics, and methods for regenerative, circular, and co-creative business practices. His work has significant implications for businesses seeking to move beyond sustainability toward active regeneration of ecological and social systems.
Prof. Dr. Manuela Wimmer serves as Professor of Environmental Engineering at Hof University of Applied Sciences within the Faculty of Engineering Sciences. She leads the research group "Sustainability and Project Management in Water Management" at the Institute for Sustainable Water Systems (inwa) and heads the "Sustainable Water Management and Engineering" study program. Previously, she directed the Institute for Water and Energy Management (iwe) from 2015 to 2020 before its integration into inwa. Her research bridges environmental engineering and digital innovation in water systems, focusing on smart water infrastructure, sustainability frameworks, and project management methodologies. Key investigations include IoT applications for groundwater protection, data-driven decision systems in water supply, and risk assessment of digital transformation in municipal utilities. She examines how technologies like AI and sensor networks enhance resource efficiency while addressing cybersecurity and regulatory challenges. Publications reveal a consistent emphasis on practical implementation of digitalization in Germany's water sector, with the SmaDiWa study establishing benchmarks for technological adoption. Her work identifies critical gaps between theoretical potential and operational realities, particularly regarding legacy infrastructure integration and workforce reskilling. Prof. Wimmer actively supervises student research in environmental engineering and project management, guiding theses on nanofiltration systems, wastewater optimization, solar-powered purification, and digital project tools. She facilitates industry collaborations where students address real-world challenges like industrial water recycling and smart grid integration. She directs the inwa research group focused on sustainable water project lifecycle management and participates in strategic water initiatives through the Bavarian Environmental Cluster and DVGW.
Professor Dr. Jürgen Strohhecker is a renowned academic at Frankfurt School of Finance & Management since 1999. His expertise spans General Business Administration, Production Management, and Controlling, with a focus on System Dynamics and its applications in strategic decision-making. Frankfurt School of Finance & Management Management Research Centre German Society for System Dynamics (DGSD) President, 2010-2014 System Dynamics Society President, 2015 His research explores dynamic-complex decision-making, behavior-oriented operations management, and production control. Recent work examines team mental models, Kanban integration in pharmaceutical production, and safety stock optimization under disruptions. Key article trends include System Dynamics applications in finance, sustainability, and operations. Subfields span from stock-flow analysis to strategic implementation frameworks. Notable awards: Prechel Foundation Dissertation Prize (1998) and Hessian University Prize for Excellence in Teaching (2010). He has contributed extensively to academic discourse through publications and editorial roles.
Thomas Clauß is Professor and WIFU Endowed Chair for Corporate Entrepreneurship and Digitalization in Family Businesses at the University of Witten/Herdecke's Faculty of Business and Society. He serves as Vice Dean for Research and Adjunct Professor for Business Model Innovation at the University of Southern Denmark. Education Diplom in Wirtschaftsingenieurwesen (summa cum laude), University of Kassel (2008) Dr. rer. pol., University of Hamburg (2012) Postdoctoral habilitation-equivalent evaluation (2016) Research Focus His work examines digital transformation, business model innovation, and sustainability in SMEs and family businesses. Current projects analyze AI adoption, cybersecurity challenges, and startup collaboration in family firms, while his book projects address family businesses and UN Sustainable Development Goals. Award Highlights 2024: IEEE TEM Best Publication Award 2023: Schulze Publication Award 2022: Best Paper on IFERA Conference Theme 2017: Best Young Researcher Award Academic Leadership He co-edits the International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior and Research , contributes to editorial boards, and organizes R&D Management conference sessions on SME innovation dilemmas. His teaching includes Digital Transformation of Organizations, Business Model Innovation, and Strategic Entrepreneurship at multiple institutions.
Dr. Philip Bittihn serves as Group Leader and Scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Dynamics and Self-Organization in Göttingen, Germany, heading the Emergent Dynamics in Living Systems research group within the Department of Living Matter Physics. His work bridges physics and biology to decipher complex emergent behaviors in biological systems through innovative interdisciplinary approaches. His research spans nonlinear dynamics in biological systems , initially focusing on cardiac arrhythmia mechanisms where he identified novel termination strategies for life-threatening rhythms through topological defect analysis. Current work centers on growth-driven phenomena in cellular active matter , investigating mechanical interactions, expansion flows, orientational order, and shape development coupled with gene regulation and metabolism. He employs reaction-diffusion modeling, synthetic biology, and microfluidic experimentation to study pattern formation in microbial colonies and cardiac tissue. Analysis of recent publications reveals a dominant trend toward active matter physics in multicellular systems , particularly geometry-induced nematic order, phase separation in proliferating matter, and nutrient-mediated antibiotic responses. His group consistently explores how non-equilibrium growth processes generate complex patterns, with increasing emphasis on mechanical stress anisotropy and motility-induced transitions in confined cellular environments. The Emergent Dynamics in Living Systems group operates at the physics-biology interface, utilizing genetically engineered E. coli models (as demonstrated in their Nature Microbiology 2020 work on oscillating growth patterns), advanced microfluidic chambers, and computational frameworks to investigate fundamental principles of biological organization with potential biomedical applications.
Richard Hall is Professor of Education and Technology based in the Division of Education within De Montfort University's School of Applied Social Sciences. He contributes to teaching on evidence-based education and educational leadership, while supervising Masters and PhD students. His academic career is deeply embedded in critical perspectives on higher education structures and practices. Professor Hall's research spans several interconnected areas including higher education policy and pedagogy, co-operative and alternative forms of higher education, academic labour and alienation, and neoliberalism's impact on education. His work consistently examines the political economy of higher education, with particular attention to how market forces reshape academic work and student experiences. In recent years, he has focused on the experiences of marginalized student groups, especially Muslim students navigating the UK student finance system. His publications reveal a trajectory from analyzing academic labor conditions to broader critiques of the university as an institution, with increasing attention to decolonial perspectives, indigenous knowledge systems, and the potential for alternative educational models. His work increasingly engages with generative AI's implications for pedagogy and the future of intellectual work. HEA National Teaching Fellow (2009) Fellow of the Higher Education Academy Professor Hall actively supervises students and collaborates on research projects, notably mentoring Yusraa Maryam on her dissertation about Muslim student experiences with interest-bearing loans, which later expanded into a funded project with The Aziz Foundation. His current work includes a significant institutional audit examining British Muslim students' experiences in higher education. He is also engaged in critical analysis of academic complicity regarding Palestine-Israel, advocating for anti-colonial approaches in higher education.
Prof. Dr. Andreas Klee serves as Honorary Professor for Geography at Julius-Maximilians-University of Würzburg since 2015 and Lecturer at its Institute of Geography and Geology since 2010. He concurrently holds the position of Head of Central Department and Deputy Secretary General at the Academy for Spatial Development in the Leibniz Association (ARL) in Hanover since 2003. Previous academic appointments include Acting Professor for Spatial and Environmental Planning at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (2014-2016) and lectureships at Technical University Munich, LMU Munich, and Halle University. His educational background features: Diplom-Geograph in Geography (Urban and Regional Development) from Universities of Trier, Portsmouth (UK), and Bayreuth (1988-1995) Doctorate (Dr. rer. nat.) from University of Bayreuth (2001) on spatial dimensions of urban lifestyles Prof. Klee's research centers on Spatial Planning , Planning Law , and Spatial Development Policy , with particular focus on demographic change impacts, historical evolution of planning systems, and lifestyle-space interactions. His work bridges theoretical frameworks with practical policy analysis, emphasizing regional development challenges in Bavaria and Germany. Notable contributions include critical assessments of state-level planning relevance and sustainable spatial ordering frameworks. His publication trajectory reveals consistent engagement with spatial governance challenges, evolving from demographic change analyses (2009-2010) toward contemporary sustainability and institutional issues (2021-2022). Key thematic clusters include mentoring in planning professions (2012-2015), climate adaptation strategies (2008), and historical-institutional studies of spatial research bodies. Collaborative work with ARL demonstrates strong institutional linkages between academic and policy spheres. No scientific awards are documented in available sources. Prof. Klee has co-developed mentoring initiatives for female spatial planning practitioners through ARL and FRU programs, focusing on career advancement and professional networking. His 2012-2015 publications evaluate program effectiveness and identify systemic barriers for women in the field. No specific research grants are mentioned in source materials. He operates within the Chair of Human Geography at Würzburg University's Institute of Geography and Geology, contributing to the Faculty of Philosophy's research profile. His dual affiliation with ARL positions him at the science-policy interface, influencing national spatial development discourse through both academic outputs and institutional leadership in Hanover.
Mareike Ariaans is a Researcher at the University of Siegen's Faculty of Arts, Department of Social Sciences, working in the junior research group 'Medicalization and Psychologization of Social Problems: Challenges and Opportunities for Social Policy' (MEPYSO), funded by the German Federal Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. Her academic qualifications include: Doctoral Candidate in Sociology at the University of Mannheim (2016–present), researching 'Professionalization and Deprofessionalization in elderly care: Comparing Germany and the Netherlands' Master of Arts in Social Policy from the University of Bremen (2011–2014) Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Bielefeld (2008–2011) ERASMUS semester at the University of Bern (2010) Her research centers on medicalization and psychologization of social problems within healthcare systems, with specific focus on elderly care structures, health inequalities, and comparative welfare state analysis. She examines how social issues become framed through medical and psychological lenses and their implications for policy development across European contexts. Her publication record demonstrates consistent engagement with healthcare system typologies and cross-national policy comparisons, particularly analyzing OECD country frameworks. This work establishes connections between system design, access barriers, and equity outcomes in aging populations. Ariaans has contributed to multiple funded research initiatives including MEPYSO, studies on women's late-career transitions, elderly care coordination, and European health inequalities. Her project involvement spans institutions like the University of Siegen, University of Mannheim (MZES), and University of Bremen. She operates within the MEPYSO research team investigating the societal impacts of medicalizing social problems, with ongoing analysis of policy challenges and opportunities arising from these trends.
Dr. Kaiyi Li serves as a Researcher in the Department of Media Transformations at the Georg Eckert Institute, specializing in the historical and contemporary evolution of Chinese education. Her role bridges academic research and policy analysis within this Leibniz Association-affiliated research institute focused on educational media. Her academic credentials include: PhD in History of Education, Technical University of Braunschweig (2020), dissertation: 'The transnational educational cooperation on the League of Nations and China during the Interwar Period' Master's degree in Social Educational Media, Beijing Normal University, focusing on early 20th-century China Li's research program examines two interconnected trajectories: (1) Historical analysis of transnational educational exchanges (particularly League of Nations-China relations) and media transformations in Republican-era China, and (2) Contemporary studies of digital education policy and governance in modern China. Her work reveals how historical patterns of foreign influence and adaptation continue to shape current digitalization efforts, with special attention to policy subjectivity, rural-urban divides, and state-led educational modernization. Her 11 publications (2012-2024) demonstrate consistent focus on Chinese educational evolution, progressing from archival studies of interwar educational films and military drills to critical analyses of AI integration and digital policy frameworks. This trajectory reflects growing engagement with contemporary governance structures while maintaining historical depth. As Project Manager of the third-party funded D-Trac initiative (2021-2024), Li investigates 'policies, governance structures, and local stakeholders' in China's school digitalization. Her academic activities include organizing the 2023 workshop 'The WPR Approach and Policies on Education in the Digital Age' and presenting on topics like 'The Internet + Education Program and Educational Equality' at international conferences. Her research operates within the Department of Media Transformations' collaborative framework, working with colleagues including Christophe and Macgilchrist on digital education projects, while maintaining connections to Chinese academic institutions through her subject expertise.
Dr. Matthias Römer is a Researcher at the Department of Sociology, John F. Kennedy Institute, Freie Universität Berlin. He is affiliated with the DFG project "The Insurance of Modern Societies" (Project Number 521230583), focusing on the historical-comparative sociology of private insurance systems, their development, origins, and consequences. Education : Doctorate in Economics (2023), Humboldt University of Berlin Professional Experience : German Federal Pension Insurance (2016–2023), Allianz Group Research (2014–2015) Research Interests include insurance systems, pension provision, differential mortality, and monetary policy implementation. His work bridges economic history and sociological analysis, particularly examining how financial and demographic factors intersect in modern societies. Publications highlight his interdisciplinary focus: a forthcoming article in the Economic History Review analyzes pre-WWII banking stability, a 2023 paper discusses capital funding in German pension insurance, and a 2019 co-authored study explores differential mortality trends.
