At Hof University of Applied Sciences, students don’t just study—they also conduct a lot of research. That’s why in this podcast we’ll be discussing research topics, research facilities, and academic conferences at Hof University of Applied Sciences. Anne-Christine Habbel, the head of research marketing, sits down with the researchers to provide insight into their daily lives. And sometimes she even hands the mic over to Hof University students: In the so-called “Takeover,” marketing students highlight not only research topics but also topics that are of particular interest to the student audience. Let yourself be surprised!
Feel free to tune in again and again, because as you know: #researchhereisnojoke
Here are all the podcasts in the series:
#51 Benedikt Hiller: Wine’s Second Career—Sustainable Plastics Made from Grape Residues
Can wine make the plastics industry more sustainable? And why do the byproducts of wine production, of all things, hold enormous potential for the materials of tomorrow? How is it possible to turn a supposed waste product into a valuable raw material?
In this episode of the Hof University of Applied Sciences Webtalk, doctoral candidate Benedikt Hiller discusses an unusual research idea: wine pomace—that is, the skins, seeds, and stems of grapes—contains natural substances that can make plastics more durable and sustainable. He explains in simple terms how innovative materials are created from regional byproducts, why his research is attracting international attention, and what opportunities this presents for the bioeconomy and industry. An exciting journey from the grapevine to the plastics of the future.
EISBiR Early-Career Research Group, including publications…
Institute for Circular Economy of Bio-Polymers (ibp)…
#50 The Anniversary Podcast: From Idea to Institute: 48 Hours That Changed Everything
Prof. Richard Göbel, founder and first scientific director of the Institute for Information Systems (iisys)
50 podcast episodes—and a story that shows how research truly takes shape. How do you develop a concept for a research institute in just 48 hours? What does it take to turn initial ideas into sustainable structures? How does research evolve? And why do some projects continue to have an impact even decades later?
In this anniversary episode, which also features the Webtalk team, Professor Richard Göbel discusses the establishment of Hof University’s first research institute—and how visions are transformed into concrete research. From the early days with just a handful of students to large-scale projects with international impact: this episode is about courage, detours, and the question of what research must achieve today.
An episode about curiosity, perseverance—and why good ideas need one thing above all else: a person who can bring them to life and inspire others.
To the Institute of Computer Science…
To Prof. Richard Göbel’s research group…
#49 Bernd Trinkwalter and Prof. Thomas Meins:
How Sustainable Are Cars?
Cars are supposed to become more sustainable—but what does that actually mean in concrete terms? The EU requires that vehicles contain significantly more recycled materials in the future. At the same time, components must remain durable, safe, and of high quality. Can recycled plastic truly meet these requirements? And how can we design cars so that their materials are transformed into new vehicles at the end of their life cycle?
In this podcast, Professor Thomas Meins from Hof University of Applied Sciences and Bernd Trinkwalter, Head of Innovation at Motherson in Kronach, discuss the future of materials in vehicle interiors. They explain why biopolymers and recycled materials hold great potential—and where their research collaboration still faces real challenges. The conversation touches on the joys of life and a forty-year-old VW bus, on the one hand. On the other hand, it also addresses material innovations, the circular economy, and the question of just how sustainable the car of tomorrow can truly be.
Listen to the podcast…
To the Biopolymer Institute…
To the paper on “Structure and Properties of Recycled Polycarbonate Blends”…
#48 Andreas Aicher: Water Management of the Future – How Self-Sufficient Can a Campus Become?
Water from the tap seems like a given—yet that very supply is coming under increasing pressure. Resources are becoming scarcer in Germany as well. That’s why Hof University of Applied Sciences is developing a vision for the future: a campus that is gradually becoming water-self-sufficient—through rainwater harvesting, smart reuse, and innovative sponge city concepts.
Environmental engineer Andreas Aicher from Hof University of Applied Sciences explains in the podcast how modern water systems already work today, what potential lies in smart infrastructure, and why sustainable water management must be scaled up now.
Because one thing is clear: the future of water won’t happen on its own. It needs ideas, research—and people who help shape it. This conversation invites you to rethink, think ahead, and become part of the solution for the world’s most important resource. Listen now and help shape the future of water!
Listen to the podcast…
To the Institute for Sustainable Water Systems (inwa)…
#47 Prof. Dr. Heike Markus: “Frost on the Way! How AI Is Revolutionizing Winter Road Maintenance”
The first snow is falling, Bavaria is turning white—and suddenly every curve becomes a slippery slope. But what if we could predict icy conditions before they even occur? Can artificial intelligence really predict exactly where conditions will become dangerous next? And how does that change safety on our roads—for winter road maintenance crews, drivers, and all of us?
In this new web talk, Professor Heike Markus discusses her project, which could revolutionize winter road maintenance: AI-powered real-time slippery road forecasts, data from over 500 weather stations and sensors in winter maintenance vehicles, precise models from Bavaria—and a look at Scandinavia and North America.
To scale up the slippery road forecasts and put them into practice, Heike Markus is also actively seeking partners—such as cities, counties, mapping service providers, automotive companies, or other innovation leaders—who can take the project to the next level. An exciting podcast on a topic that affects us all.
Research group led by Prof. Dr. Heike Markus (Institute for Information Systems, iisys)
#46 Prof. Matthias Drossel: “Care in Transition—Why Now Is the Time to Act”
Who will care for us tomorrow—when the baby boomers retire and more and more people need support? As early as 2029, we face a tipping point when an increasing number of people in need of care will be met by a dwindling number of skilled professionals. How can care even function under these conditions? And why, despite all the reforms, are we barely succeeding in making the profession more attractive?
In the new web talk from Hof University of Applied Sciences, Anne-Christine Habbel speaks with Professor Dr. Matthias Drossel about the big questions facing the future of care: from the academization of the field to international workers and innovative solutions from both science and practice. The experienced nurse and medical educator explains why 2029 could be a turning point—and how research, technology, and education can help ensure care is available.
An honest conversation about bottlenecks, opportunities, and new paths in a healthcare system that affects us all.
Center of Excellence for Health and Sustainability…
Nursing degree programs launched in Bamberg…
#45 Prof. Sven Rill: “AI Made in Hof: Why Hof University of Applied Sciences Is Building Its Own AI”
Everyone knows ChatGPT, Mistral, and the rest—but have you heard of “Lisa” and “Luis”? Hof University has gone ahead and built its own language models based on open source. Why? Because data protection, flexibility, and independence are more than just buzzwords.
But how does a campus AI really stack up against the big U.S. giants? What surprising advantages come from keeping all data securely on campus? What happens when students consciously learn to challenge AI from time to time? And how exactly is artificial intelligence transforming teaching, research, and administration at a university?
Professor Dr. Sven Rill from the Chair of Mobile Computing takes us behind the scenes in this podcast: from the initial idea to practical implementation. An exciting conversation about how to take innovation into your own hands, what opportunities tailored solutions open up—and how responsibly developed AI can create a real competitive advantage.
Listen to the podcast: Prof. Dr. Sven Rill: Why Hof University is Building Its Own AI
AI User Center – IISYS User Center/
All the info on Lisa and Luis…
#44 Kronach Research Center:
When Research Turns into Real Solutions
How can scientific findings be directly transferred into business practice? The Kronach Research Center at Hof University of Applied Sciences demonstrates how innovative research becomes tangible—application-oriented, collaborative, fast, and with real added value for companies.
In the latest podcast episode, Katrin Müller and Sarah Mohr discuss their work at the intersection of academia and industry. Together with regional companies, interdisciplinary teams develop solutions to real-world challenges—for example:
– Optimizing interfaces in autonomous vehicles
– Analyzing customer needs for air conditioning systems
– Developing AI-powered assistance systems for production machinery
But what makes this collaboration so special? How does one get started on a project? And why do companies of all sizes benefit? Answers to these and many other exciting questions can be found in this episode. Listen now and discover how academia and industry are driving innovation together!
Here you’ll find all the information about the research center’s projects and contact details: Kronach Research Center – Hof University of Applied Sciences
#43 Jette Petzold: “Ph.D., Professorship & Potential: Your Plan for the Post-Master’s Phase”
You’ve got your master’s degree—now what? For many, entering the business world right away seems like a given. But what if your next big opportunity lies in academia? How do you really get started on a Ph.D.—from choosing a topic to securing funding? What opportunities do scholarships, research projects, or collaborations with companies open up? And why can Hof University be not only a place to study but also an exciting workplace with real career opportunities?
Career advisor @Jette Petzold from Hof University of Applied Sciences discusses in this podcast just how diverse, personalized, and achievable the path to a career in research is. She provides insights into counseling services, shares the experiences of current doctoral candidates, and explains why a doctorate can be more than just a title: it’s a door opener for your personal academic career. Give it a listen—maybe you’ll discover your next step!
Listen to the podcast…
Academic Careers at Hof University of Applied Sciences – Hof University of Applied Sciences
Interviews with Ph.D. candidates at Hof University of Applied Sciences
Category: Dream Job—How Do You Actually Land a Professorship?
#42 Studying in Hof? Why it’s worth studying at Hof University of Applied Sciences
Still looking for a degree program that’s right for you? Soon you’ll get authentic insights into student life at Hof University of Applied Sciences and what makes it special. Plus, a true Hof local tells us what the city and region of Hof really have to offer and which experiences you shouldn’t miss. Spoiler: affordable rent, modern degree programs, and a personal atmosphere where you’ll quickly make friends.
What to expect:
• Personal experiences instead of marketing jargon
• Tips on life, housing, and studying
• Favorite spots and real stories from students and locals
Whether you’re just exploring your options or are simply curious—this podcast is your shortcut to real information, honest opinions, and authentic insights! So if you’d like to find out why studying at Hof University is worth it, check out our new podcast episode!
Go to the podcast…
Go to the program finder…
To Hof University’s degree programs…
#41 Make the Most of Funding Instead of Missing Out—Here’s How to Succeed with EU Collaborations
If you want to make research future-proof, you can’t ignore Europe: What role do alliances with democratic partners play in this? Hof University of Applied Sciences shows how to drive change: through targeted network management, strong EU consortia, and measurable impact for science and the region. Why are international collaborations no longer just an option, but a prerequisite? How do grants make an impact where politics, business, and research go hand in hand? And what do funding agencies need to know to enable forward-thinking research? – Find the answers in a conversation with network manager Katrin Müller from Hof University of Applied Sciences. A podcast for everyone who doesn’t just want to talk about research, but wants to shape the future.
Link to the podcast
Europe Pages
Upper Franconia Economic Region
#40 From the Lecture Hall to the Startup: How Hof University Fosters an Entrepreneurial Spirit
How does a university manage to catapult itself from 43rd to 14th place in the German startup ranking compiled by the renowned Stifterverband? Hof is emerging as a hotspot for entrepreneurship in Bavaria—thanks to a digital startup center, a makerspace, and professors with a startup mindset. In the future, research ideas will be specifically transformed into marketable business models, supported by projects such as the new “Go Gründungshub Oberfranken.” In Hof University’s web talk, Prof. Michael Seidel and Prof. Oliver Mauroner explain why entrepreneurship has long been an integral part of modern higher education for them. They provide insights into their work, highlight successes, discuss challenges—and explain which structures truly drive startup activity at universities. Why have sheep’s wool and golf courses suddenly become topics in innovation studies? And what can other regions learn from Hof? Find the answers in the latest research podcast. It’s worth a listen!
Einstein1 Digital Startup Center
#39 Marc Lehmann
“How can cities be better prepared for climate change?”
How do heat islands form, and what role do artificial intelligence and sensor networks play in detecting and combating them? In this podcast, we discuss the “KLIPS” project, an innovative AI-based platform that provides real-time analysis services—such as locating current heat islands, provides machine-learning-based forecasts for the next 48 hours, and enables simulations to model the effects of construction or planning measures on the urban climate in advance. But how do you ensure that all this data is used in compliance with the law? Marc Lehmann, a doctoral candidate at Hof University of Applied Sciences, explains why data governance is crucial and what happens when incorrect data is used. Look forward to exciting insights into strategies for combating heat islands, legal and technical aspects—and a search for sensors in Dresden!
#38 Prof. Dr. Valentin Plenk
“Rethinking Knowledge Transfer: How Universities Bring Knowledge to Society”
In the new podcast from Hof University, Professor Valentin Plenk, Vice President for Research and Development, discusses the growing importance of knowledge transfer. Plenk explains why universities are needed now more than ever as a bridge between academia, business, and society, and introduces the “Third Mission” of universities: actively shaping the exchange with society. But how does Hof University bring research findings to the region? What role do events such as the Science Day of the European Metropolitan Region of Nuremberg, the Dies Academicus, or the networking meetings of “Frauen.Stärken.Hof” play? And what role do purely internal formats such as departmental colloquia or the “Brain Massages” play? Why is this exchange so crucial right now? The podcast offers insights into how the university is driving this transfer forward with innovative formats, thereby providing new impetus for society—from technology and knowledge transfer to topics such as the circular economy, water management, and regional development. A must-listen for anyone who wants to know how knowledge transfer works today and why universities are far more than just places of learning.
Hof University of Applied Sciences Event Calendar…
#37 Corinna Anzer
Technology Meets Nature: Machine-Woven Wood
In this podcast takeover, students from Hof University of Applied Sciences speak with Corinna Anzer, technical director of the weaving and braiding departments, about the innovative process of technical radial braiding, which is being researched at the Institute for Materials Science (ifm) at Hof University of Applied Sciences. Robust and versatile: This process can be used to produce wooden structures from willow wood that could find applications in various industrial sectors in the future, such as aerospace or recycling. The biggest challenge was producing a homogeneous and stable willow thread capable of withstanding the high bending stresses involved in weaving. Through specialized processing steps, a suitable thread was ultimately developed.
Compared to conventional materials such as cotton, willow wicker offers the advantage of being a renewable, locally available raw material that requires minimal resource consumption. In the future, it could replace energy-intensive fibers and make an important contribution to sustainability. The project is now entering a second phase, which will focus on industrialization and expansion into other textile processes. Students also have the opportunity to participate as assistants and gain valuable experience. Find out what other potential this technology holds in today’s podcast.
#36 Prof. Dr. Michael Nase
“Circular Economy and Bioplastics”
In the latest episode of our podcast, we dive deep into the world of bioplastics and the circular economy. Our guest is Professor Michael Nase from Hof University of Applied Sciences, founder and scientific director of the Institute for Circular Economy at Bio:Polymere.
What challenges did he face when founding the institute? What are Michael Nase’s goals, and why are bioplastics and recycling his passion? These and other questions are answered in the conversation. Learn through real-world examples why short-lived products should be made from bioplastics and long-lasting ones from conventional plastics, and exactly how research into these innovations is conducted.
Professor Nase also explains how he manages to protect the environment while working closely with regional industry. How can downcycling be avoided, and which projects have had a particularly profound impact on him and his team? Let yourself be inspired by these insights into the research landscape.
Tune in and discover how biogenic waste materials, such as wine and coffee waste, are turned into valuable resources, and what innovative recycling strategies are being developed for plastics.
Listen to the podcast…
To the Institute for Circular Economy of Bio-Polymers…
#35 Prof. Dr.-Ing. Tobias Schnabel
“Safe, Clean Water”
Today’s topic is human waste: What happens to what we leave behind? Feces and urine contain excellent fertilizers—namely phosphorus and nitrogen—and currently, through our use of toilets, they are mixed in the wastewater system with other wastewater containing pollutants. How can we better separate these materials into different fractions, and which process is best suited for recovering important raw materials? Would toilet designs other than today’s models perhaps be better? “My research focuses on safe water reuse,” says Professor Dr.-Ing. Tobias Schnabel of Hof University of Applied Sciences, who holds a professorship in Urban Water Resources Management. You’ll hear in today’s podcast what role light and heat can play in this process.
Listen to the podcast…
About the Photonics and Water Research Group…
The Catavolt and UVPHON projects…
#34 Anja Grabmeier
“Sustainability is always a shared responsibility”
“Already 25% of universities have a sustainability strategy, and another 64% are in the planning stages,” says the German Stifterverband. Sustainability has been a key component at Hof University since 2015, in line with its “Green-Tech University” mission statement. Since 2022, greater emphasis has been placed on sustainability, and a sustainability management system has been established. In a concept developed by Anja Grabmeier, the sustainability manager at Hof University of Applied Sciences, the campus is to be designed as a living space, a place of learning, and a hub for knowledge transfer with a focus on Green Tech—ecological, social, and economic—with all members of the university community involved.
In the web talk, the research assistant explains how awareness and interest on campus have changed in a very short time. She highlights how the research institutes focused on sustainability topics from the very start and sheds light on the other sustainability-related activities already taking place today.
Listen to the podcast…
Sustainability at Hof University of Applied Sciences…
Institute for Sustainable Water Systems…
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals…
#33 Katharina Schiller:
“Traditional phishing works via email”
“Phishing is all about the human factor,” says Katharina Schiller of Hof University of Applied Sciences. She conducts research on the theft of login credentials, which are obtained from users through fake emails. She explains why preventive measures—such as employee training, but also other steps—are particularly important. In the podcast, she discusses potential attack vectors, security concepts, and countermeasures for identifying vulnerabilities. As a doctoral candidate, she is collaborating with Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg on a study of various support systems designed to help users better protect themselves. “When emotions are triggered, people act differently,” says the security expert. She also explains why she has since developed a greater distrust of technology.
Listen to the podcast…
About the research group…
Federal Office for Information Security…
Consumer Advice Center…
#32 Prof. Marco Linß
The Hof MINT Steering Wheel 2.0 – Navigating Your Way Through College!
With over forty degree programs, Hof University offers a highly diversified and target-group-oriented curriculum in the fields of mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, and technology—known as STEM for short. The Hof STEM Steering Wheel brings together various measures aimed at reducing the dropout rate. In particular, grade monitoring has proven to be an effective tool for alerting students at an early stage to potential risks to their academic success. This is because about one-third of students drop out of their programs—a figure that Prof. Marco Linß of the Faculty of Engineering at Hof University of Applied Sciences considers far too high.
To reduce dropout rates, the mechanical engineer with a Ph.D. has been conducting research for many years using the “Hof MINT Steering Wheel” to determine which specific factors contribute to academic success and which do not. He no longer wanted to rely on the famous “gut feeling,” but rather to generate reliable data on the matter. This has led to measures that begin even before students start their studies, accompany them throughout their academic journey, and continue to have an impact long after graduation. The model is so effective that other universities are following its example.
#31 Norbert Kühl
Successful Nonwoven Collaboration: “IFM Has the Greatest Focus on Nonwovens in the German-Speaking World”
The Austrian company Lenzing has been a research partner of Hof University of Applied Sciences for many years. As a global producer of textile fibers for both traditional apparel and nonwovens, the company sought a close partnership with the Münchberg Research Institute for Materials Science to gain access to its nonwoven pilot plants. The collaboration was formalized with the signing of a cooperation agreement in 2019. The tests conducted at the pilot plant are intended to help improve the processing properties of Lenzing fibers and gain a more precise understanding of how the fibers influence the functionality of a nonwoven fabric. This significantly shortens the time it takes to go from concept to final product.
Norbert Kühl, Senior Manager in the New Business Development division at Lenzing, explains in today’s podcast why the textile industry has always fascinated him and how the collaboration began at the Hof Nonwovens Days and has since evolved. He also explains the topics Lenzing is currently researching: for example, the EU’s Single-Use Plastics Directive, which aims to prevent the use of plastics and replace them with compostable and sustainable alternatives.
Listen to the podcast…
About Lenzing…
About the Institute for Materials Science (ifm)…
#30 Jonas Othmann
The student initiative Consulting Hochfranken
Our students in the Master’s program in Marketing Management have created a brand-new podcast in collaboration with the student initiative Consulting Hochfranken. It offers exciting insights into the world of consulting and is an absolute must-listen for all consulting enthusiasts, students, and companies alike. In this podcast, Jonas Othmann (former board member of Consulting Hochfranken) shares his extensive knowledge, best practices, and firsthand experiences to provide you with valuable and practical insights.
Whether you’re an aspiring student looking for new strategies, running a business, or simply want to expand your knowledge—this podcast is for you!
Listen to the podcast…
About the Consulting Hochfranken initiative…
#29 The Ice Battery – More Than Just a Conventional Energy Storage System
A resource-efficient and, at the same time, infinitely scalable option for energy storage? That’s exactly what the ice battery—a research project led by the Institute for Hydrogen and Energy Technology—aims to offer.
In this podcast episode, which is another part of the “Takeover” series featuring researchers from Hof University of Applied Sciences, you’ll not only learn more about how the ice battery works and its advantages, but also how this storage technology could be socially relevant in the future.
In addition, our interview guest Michael Dölz provides insight into his day-to-day responsibilities as a senior technician at the Institute for Hydrogen and Energy Technology and into other exciting research projects he’s working on alongside his colleagues.
Institute for Hydrogen and Energy Technology at Hof University of Applied Sciences
#28 The eSports Initiative (HUe)
Studying isn’t just about sitting in lectures and studying for exams: At Hof University of Applied Sciences, there are numerous student initiatives, including the eSports HUe initiative. The Marketing Master’s students take the microphone and interview the founder of the eSports initiative, Vincent Tischler. How are strategies for tournaments developed? Why is it worth checking out the initiative? These and more questions are answered in the podcast!
Listen to the podcast…
About the HUe eSports Initiative and other student initiatives…
#27 Dr. Harvey Harbach and Paul
Fish, Plants, and Recycling—Hydroponics Explained in a Way Even Kids Can Understand
Finally, an episode for our youngest listeners!
In today’s episode, Dr. Harvey Harbach talks about the NaLea educational project. We dive deep into the world of fish, plants, and recycling. Together with Paul (age 10), our co-host, this episode explains hydroponics and other exciting phenomena in a way that’s easy for kids to understand. NaLea is the educational project of the internationally oriented master’s program “Sustainable Water Management and Engineering” at Hof University of Applied Sciences. Using a participatory and independent approach, the project covers the planning, construction, and operation of an aquaponics system. This combined production process—involving aquaculture of fish and hydroponics of plants—is designed to present challenges related to nutrient recycling, for which interdisciplinary solutions can be applied. Digital and management skills are taught through innovative, semi-virtual, and self-directed learning content.
#26 Désirée Neeb and Sophia Giegold
“We didn’t try to talk people into anything”—Trudi helps dispel concerns about digitalization in long-term care
They care for us when we’re no longer able-bodied or simply growing old. But how do we keep them healthy in the long term? We’re talking about caregivers in the health and social services sectors. This is where the pulsnetz AI project comes in: Through new ways of working—which rely in particular on the use of digital tools to support specific tasks—the goal is to simplify caregivers’ work lives.
Two research assistants from Hof University have delved deeply into the subject and are showcasing around sixty different digital aids, including an assistive floor that calls for help in the event of a fall or automatically turns on the lights. There’s also a robotic cat and VR glasses for relaxation or therapeutic training. Désirée Neeb and Sophia Giegold from the Institute for Information Systems (iisys) drove about 10,000 km across Bavaria, visiting 25 facilities and holding introductory courses there. Why one of the two is nicknamed “Tech Mom” by the team and who TruDi actually is—we’ll explain that in this podcast.
Innovative Health Systems Research Group
#25 Prof. Dr. Daniel Werner
Category: Dream Job—How Do You Actually Get a Professorship?
It’s not that hard: Daniel Werner, founding director of the Bavarian-Indian Center and now a professor of economics specializing in Asia, explains in the podcast how he made his way to a professorship through an apprenticeship, technical college, and then undergraduate and doctoral studies. It wasn’t a straight path, but it was still very much possible, as he himself says. A lot of things just fell into place. Trade between developing countries was—and remains—his area of focus; it has been a constant in his life, and he says: If you have your area of focus and find a professorship in that field, then you simply have to apply—positions with the right topics are just too rare.
He didn’t have a grand plan to become a professor, but several years in industry are an important formal requirement. The phase involving the two trial lectures he had to give as part of his application was exciting for him. Today, he values the freedom and flexibility of his job at a practice-oriented university.
Professor Daniel Werner is proof that it’s possible to become a professor even without an academic background or role models in the family.
Listen to the podcast…
Link to his CV…
To the Bavarian-Indian Center…
#24 Dr. Dirk Reinel
How an idea became a startup: “We just took the plunge and started the company.”
Starting a company is no easy feat, yet that’s exactly what they did six years ago: Dr. Dirk Reinel from the IT firm smartlytic GmbH talks about how he and his two fellow students first worked together as research assistants at the Institute for Information Systems after graduation, then earned their doctorates, and finally founded the company together. “I wouldn’t do much differently,” he says, noting that smartlytic was built up alongside his job, starting a family, and pursuing his doctorate. In the podcast, we hear why the three co-founders took a calculated risk, where they sought support, and why an EXIST startup grant isn’t absolutely necessary. Speaking about Hof University of Applied Sciences, Dirk Reinel, who is responsible for data analysis projects, says: “It remains very important to us—for joint projects and, above all, for exchange,” because in the beginning, the three founders first had to make a name for themselves. The team finds a balance at the ping-pong table, which is set up in one of the new office spaces.
To the DMKG Headache Registry…
Startup support from Hof University of Applied Sciences…
#23 Prof. Günter Müller-Czygan
Sponge Region and Sponge City: A New Solution to Floods and Droughts?
The impact of climate change on cities and rural regions is one of the top issues in our society today. Due to the consequences of a steady increase in extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and heat waves in recent years, water management in urban planning must now be rethought. The transformation of urban spaces into so-called “sponge cities” or “sponge regions” is increasingly being recommended as an effective means of making cities and regions more climate-resilient. Water expert and endowed professor Günter Müller-Czygan discusses examples such as Berlin, Bamberg, and Selbitz, and explains how green roofs, retention basins, playgrounds, and swale ditches are being utilized not only in these locations but also in industrial facilities and at Hof University of Applied Sciences.
To the article “The ‘Anyway’ Strategy”…
#22 Prof. Dr. Frank Ficker
Nonwoven and Fleece: What’s the Fluffy Difference?
Why they sound exactly the same but are completely different: fleece and nonwoven fabric. They differ fundamentally in both their manufacturing and their applications. What’s the difference, how is research conducted on nonwoven fabrics, and what are they used for? In this podcast, we’ll explain how their use has changed in the age of COVID-19—think face coverings and masks. We’ll also discuss technical nonwoven applications in automobiles, feminine hygiene products, diapers, and wet wipes. All of these have contributed to the development of a unique European research infrastructure in Hof and Münchberg.
In the fall of 2022, the Hof Nonwovens Days took place for the 35th time: a traditional conference that brings around 500 guests from all over the world to Hof every year. As the scientific director of two research institutions, Prof. Frank Ficker—together with his teams—is the driving force behind these activities. Under the motto “Thin-Film Technology in Hof Meets Textile Technology in Münchberg,” he achieved his greatest breakthrough: the reflector antenna for use in space, designed to improve communication with Earth.
#21 Michael Bitzinger
Hof University of Applied Sciences as a Partner to Businesses
He describes himself as a “Hof University fanboy,” and indeed, hardly anyone knows Hof University as well as he does: As a former student of business informatics, he founded his company while still in school and recently celebrated its 20th anniversary: Michael Bitzinger of the digital agency Bitzinger. For some time now, in addition to his many other networking activities, he has also served as the volunteer chair of the Hof Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK) committee and now views “his” university from this new perspective.
In the podcast, he explains why, from the IHK’s perspective, Hof University of Applied Sciences is a “magnet for young people” and, at the same time, a bridge to the business community when it comes to research projects and contract research. “The Hof IHK committee leads a vigorous yet self-assured life of its own,” says Bitzinger, noting that it focuses on topics such as digitalization, innovation, and networking—areas in which Hof University of Applied Sciences also conducts research. The IHK supports companies interested in research by providing innovation consulting to bring together partners from business and academia. He explains why he himself is involved in two research projects at iisys and why he values Hof University’s business-oriented and practice-based approach.
Listen to the podcast…
To the Hof IHK Committee…
To the IHK for Upper Franconia (Research) …
#20 Prof. Dr. René Peinl
On Computers “Reading Aloud” and the “Health Status” of Machines
Drawing on its many years of experience across a wide variety of research groups, the Institute for Information Systems at Hof University of Applied Sciences (iisys) supports companies in the region and beyond. The DAMMIT project, led by Prof. Dr. René Peinl, focuses on image and speech processing; in its seven subprojects, for example, text was translated into speech, physical objects were displayed online, and the “health data” of machines was recorded. Prof. Peinl, who is also the scientific director of iisys, talks about his favorite DAMMIT project, working in projects without red tape, and how—after two successful projects funded by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)—he’s eager to launch a third one as soon as possible: “Trilogies are all the rage these days,” as he himself puts it.
Listen to the podcast…
To the DAMMIT project…
#19 Lucas Großmann
“We’re all biopolymers!”
In Germany, four kilograms of plastic per person per year end up in the environment. To reduce this amount, the Institute for Biopolymers (ibp) is conducting research on new bioplastics. In the podcast, Lucas Großmann, deputy director of the institute, discusses research on bioplastics for food packaging, agricultural films, and bioplastic components in general, as well as how they are manufactured using the injection molding process. “Bioplastics can be a lucrative niche,” says the Hof-based researcher, which is why he sees the university’s main role as helping companies in the region identify these niches. With this goal in mind, there are already a variety of collaborations with innovative companies in the region. To reach even more companies in the region, Lucas Großmann’s team organizes the “Bioplastics” conference every two years, in addition to regular networking meetings. Unlike other conferences, this event focuses equally on both academia and industry. The aim is to specifically foster points of intersection, joint projects, and general collaboration between industry and academia. After all, meaningful collaboration is only possible when one understands the other party and their challenges and problems.
#18 Dr. Enrico Putzke
Heart, Keep Beating!
Stroke or heart attack: About 6 million people in Germany suffer from coronary heart disease. In about 300,000 of these cases, a coronary artery becomes blocked. Dr. Enrico Putzke, Executive Director of the Institute for Materials Science (ifm), explains in the podcast the new approaches the ifm is taking in the manufacture of cardiac stents and what candle wicks, ropes, and the new stents have in common in this context. He also explains the important role bobbins play in the production process and which new patents the ifm has recently filed.
The ifm’s Weaving and Braiding Research Group has laid the groundwork for production to take place in a continuous process. The podcast explains how this works and how to handle stents with a diameter of 5–6 mm.
For many years, the Institute for Materials Science has been involved as a co-organizer of the Nonwovens Days in Hof. European specialists from the textile industry and related fields, as well as around 70 exhibitors, will accept the invitation to Hof on September 20 and 21, 2022. The focus of this year’s conference is “Sustainability.” The ifm cordially invites you to attend!
Link to the GeVeS and KISS projects…
Link to the 35th Nonwovens Days…
#17 Lea Schmidt
HofSpannung e.V.
Research and development go hand in hand at HofSpannung—a student initiative dedicated to developing and optimizing a race car. To mark the rollout of the newly developed race car Clyde, this episode explores a somewhat different kind of “research.” Our guest is Lea Schmidt, HofSpannung’s first chairperson, who provides insight into the challenging yet exciting development of Clyde. Learn more about racing and get a firsthand look at how a race car is built!
#16 Katrin Müller
Digital Regions
Digital Regions, a networking project that was part of the Europe-wide “Interreg” initiative, recently came to a close. As part of this project, best practices in the field of digitalization from European locations were pooled into a shared knowledge base—much like water flowing through a funnel—and ultimately applied to a wide variety of regions. Hof University of Applied Sciences was also involved in the international networking efforts when applying these insights to the Upper Franconia region.
In this episode, which is another part of the Hof University of Applied Sciences’ podcast takeover, we speak with Katrin Müller, network manager of the Digital Regions project . Listen to this podcast to learn more about the transnational project. You’ll gain exciting first-hand insights and discover details about the project’s concept, implementation, and results.
#15 “Dies Academicus” – A Day Dedicated to Research
This day is designated as an academic holiday, during which the university’s research areas are presented and awards are given. At Hof University of Applied Sciences’ “Dies Academicus” on April 26, 2022, 150 guests had the opportunity to engage directly with research in the fields of engineering, business/law, and IT/digital data collection. In this “live” takeover, students from Hof University of Applied Sciences report on the university’s first Dies Academicus. Listen in on the various topics and get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look!
We’re joined by Prof. Dr. Valentin Plenk, Vice President for Research and Development at Hof University of Applied Sciences. He shares more background information about Dies Academicus. You’ll also have the chance to learn about the “Digital Bee Conservation Portal” project from Prof. Dr. Heym.
More about Dies Academicus …
Listen to the podcast…
#14 Stephanie Kitzing
Legally Compliant Use of Resident Registration Data – Example: Public Transit
Municipalities could better serve their residents with local transit and infrastructure if they were allowed to use residents’ registration data. However, for data protection reasons, data from resident registration offices cannot be automatically retrieved for statistical purposes—such as population distribution. Hof University of Applied Sciences has developed the first legally verifiable automated query system that solves this problem. Using dummy data, computer scientist Stephanie Kitzing created a blueprint for many other municipal applications as part of the Aktmel project, which includes a three-step anonymization process. The Bavarian Ministry of the Interior has indicated that this legal loophole will be addressed in the near future so that actual resident registration data can also be used for statistical purposes. Other potential applications could include social planning and vacancy management.
More about the Aktmel project…
More about the MobiDig project…
More about the Multimedia Information Systems Research Group…
#13 Marcin Czaban
“Elbow out the window, like a gangster”: A fun driving simulator
A driving simulator was recently installed at Hof University of Applied Sciences. Marcin Czaban, a research assistant, aims to investigate which product features are well-received by car buyers and how they can be further improved. The goal is to reduce manufacturing costs and avoid misguided and costly production processes—especially in the automotive industry. Listen to the web talk to learn how the driving lab carries out market research projects and what it feels like to take a curve at 200 km/h in the simulation. The researcher also explains how to deal with simulator sickness and how critical driving situations that would otherwise be impossible for safety reasons can be artificially recreated. The researcher, who works at the Institute for Information Systems, aims—as a marketing expert—to explicitly “make customers happy.”
More about the driving simulator…
Moreabout the ERUX research group…
#12 Prof. Dr. Manuela Wimmer
The Green Technology Workshop—Water and Energy as Strategic Research Fields
Did you know how to set up a research institute? What strategic decision led to the founding of the Institute for Water and Energy Management (iwe)? How was it implemented? The institute’s founding director, Professor Manuela Wimmer, discusses these topics. She explains how, together with five colleagues, a brainstorming session led to the proposal for the large-scale project “The Green Technology Workshop (GTW)”—comprising twenty individual projects—and why EU funding, such as the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), played a major role in the process. She talks about her favorite project—the app for the “water master”—and explains that even today, it’s possible to optimize a traditional brewing process at a Hof brewery using new methods. Following the completion of the GTW, the work continues with new EU funding: Three additional projects with colleagues were recently secured through the European Social Fund (ESF) program.
More on the Green Technology Workshop and twenty individual projects…
More about the new ESF projects…
More about the planned iwe building…
#11 Prof. Dr. Beatrix Weber
Enabling Technologies Through Legislation: “Putting a Stop to Food Waste”
In Germany, approximately 11 million metric tons of food are discarded each year before they are even produced. The REIF project, in which Professor Beatrix Weber and her research group at Hof University of Applied Sciences are participating alongside approximately 20 partners, is aimed at combating this food waste. The goal of the project is to establish a digital ecosystem that uses artificial intelligence to enable more accurate needs assessments, demand forecasts, and improved plant control for manufacturers. As a specialist in data governance and the implementation of legal requirements into processes, Beatrix Weber aims to contribute to reducing this “insane food waste.” REIF is part of Gaia-X, an originally German-French cloud initiative that aims to safeguard the data sovereignty of EU citizens and build trust in data usage within the EU. In addition to her research work, the legal scholar is also a member of the joint ethics committee of Bavaria’s universities.
More on Prof. Beatrix Weber’s research…
Listen to the podcast…
#10 Oliver Stark:
The Construction Site on Campus—The New Building for Water and Energy Management
The construction sign on campus makes it clear: the new Institute for Water and Energy Management (iwe) has been under construction here since 2020. The Bavarian state is investing around 25 million euros in the new building, which will itself serve as a research subject. Oliver Stark, the research associate responsible for the construction, discusses heat and ice storage systems as well as outdoor collectors in the web talk—technologies designed to ensure that the institute will be as energy self-sufficient as possible in the future. Once construction is complete and the move from various locations in Hof and Münchberg is finished, all researchers in the fields of water and energy will be housed centrally at the iwe. This means that corporate partners will find everything under one roof in the future, since they are the very ones for whom the institute will conduct research. He explains what “third-party funding” actually is and why it is so important for research using three examples: the collaboration with the Winterling Areal in Schwarzenbach/Saale, the outdoor swimming pool in Stadtsteinach, and the continuation of his own position.
More about the Institute for Water and Energy Management…
Listen to the podcast…
#9 Prof. Dr. Claus-Ekkehard Koukal:
Nonwoven Fabrics
To continue using the historic halls on the Münchberg university campus while still having more space, a new development center for textile research was built: the Technikum. In this building, equipped with a wide range of specialized machinery, research can be conducted on a diverse array of topics—such as wet wipes, cleaning wipes, and feminine hygiene products—as well as on satellite struts, specialized filters, and high-strength fabrics. As an endowed professor in the field of “Innovative Textiles,” Professor Dr. Claus-Ekkehard Koukal is responsible for nonwovens here. In the podcast, he explains why it is a special honor for the Münchberg team to collaborate with the Fraunhofer Application Center, and he describes why knowledge management is his particular passion. He also explains why companies don’t have to shut down their entire production line right away when they want to test new ideas.
More about the Technical Center…
Listen to the podcast…
#8 Isabell Kleiber:
Agricultural Stretch Films
She is determined to ensure that, by the end of the season, agricultural films are no longer simply left lying in ditches at the edges of fields—and that’s what Isabell Kleiber from the Institute for Biopolymer Research (ibp) at Hof University of Applied Sciences is fighting for. Through a feasibility study, she is researching ways to ensure that “animal fast food”—the so-called “silage bales” seen in the fields in the fall—are no longer produced from increasingly scarce fossil-based raw materials, but instead made from renewable resources. For these films, which are so important to the agricultural sector, the end-of-life phase is also being considered from the very beginning of the project. She goes on to explain why the still-young ibp, with its specialized focus, can easily join the illustrious ranks of Fraunhofer and Max Planck Institutes—and why the reach of new media should not be underestimated for young scientists.
More about the project…
Listen to the podcast…
#7 Dr. Harvey Harbach:
Aquaponics Research Projects
Food production through resource-efficient fish farming is an important contribution to sustainable human nutrition. In closed water cycles—known as “aquaponics”—fish, plants, and worms form a system in which even waste products are profitably utilized. Dr. Harvey Harbach, a research associate at Hof University of Applied Sciences, explains exactly how this works. He discusses the connection between hair curlers and bioplastic elements for bacteria—so-called “growth media”—and outlines the educational and knowledge-transfer projects being implemented at Hof University of Applied Sciences. On the one hand, this takes place with children through the program “Aquaponics for Beginners: Fish and Vegetables at School.” On the other hand, it takes place at the Hof Zoo in the Savannah House, where there is a true innovation: a system that conserves water, energy, and fertilizer while producing animal feed. Dr. Harbach also discusses why he dreams of conducting his own research in the ponds on the green campus of Hof University of Applied Sciences.
Listen to the podcast…
#6 Dr. Eva Max:
“Textile 4.0” Research Project (July 2021)
What does a “radial weaving machine” actually have to do with a “Stargate”? And what do European funding grants in the field of Industry 4.0 specifically mean for the Upper Franconia textile region? Dr. Eva Max, project coordinator for the Textile 4.0 project, explains what the terms “fabric inspection,” “warp beam,” and “warp trees” mean. Together with her, we discuss the textile tradition on the Münchberg campus, which dates back well into the 19th century. You’ll also hear why the who’s who of the European Nonwovens Days meets once a year in Hof at the Freiheitshalle. Learn more in the new web talk. More information about the project is available here: https://www.hof-university.de/forschung/institut-fuer-materialwissenschaften/efre-forschung-die-zukunft-industrie-40.html
#5 Kübra Aslan:
“LigNutz” Research Project (June 2021)
She’s passionate about her topic, even though the material itself smells more like a campfire: Researcher Kübra Aslan is intensively studying kraft lignin, which—alongside cellulose—is the most important component in wood and is responsible for its tensile strength. It is used, for example, in concrete and in pet food as a binder. However, since the highly cross-linked structure of lignin can pose a problem during further processing of the material, the industry partner—which manufactures plastics for urns and toys—approached the research institute and suggested investigating how this material could be made more malleable without chemical treatment while still remaining biodegradable. The Institute for Biopolymer Research at Hof University of Applied Sciences expressed interest, primarily because this would also make it possible to use the material, for example, in the production of agricultural films.
#4 Prof. Dr.-Ing. Valentin Plenk:
Vice President of Hof University of Applied Sciences (March 2021)
Why is research fun? Why should we talk about it? What are Hof University of Applied Sciences’ highlight projects? The Vice President for Research & Development, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Valentin Plenk, discusses these questions. He explains what happens when you apply old knowledge to new problems and the important role Hof University of Applied Sciences plays in the region. He outlines why the connection between the university and the business community needs to become even closer and why the Bavarian High-Tech Agenda is bringing new momentum to Hof University of Applied Sciences. Find out more in the web talk.
Information on research and development at Hof University of Applied Sciences…
#3 Jessica Wittmann:
“KH Bett” Research Project (Jan. 2021)
“Let’s just save the world”—that’s the attitude Jessica Wittmann, a research assistant at Hof University of Applied Sciences, brings to her “KH Bett” research project. This ambition is more than justified in the age of COVID-19, as around 70% of hospital patients are afraid of germs—even more so than of receiving the wrong treatment or having their records mixed up. She is working on antibacterial coatings for hospital beds. In the web talk, she explains what crabs, toothpaste, and fungi have in common—and why cleaning isn’t always the best solution. She also explains why it’s fun to “dive into a topic with passion” and why she recommends that every female STEM student in Hof participate in the university’s mentoring program.
More information about the project is available here…
#2 Dr. Andy Gradel:
“AutAllo” Research Project (Dec. 2020)
The latest web talk from Hof University of Applied Sciences is here! This time, the guest is Andy Gradel, senior engineer at the Institute for Water and Energy Management#iwe at Hof University of Applied Sciences. Can electricity and heat be generated from wood waste? “Yes,” says Andy Gradel. In his doctoral dissertation, he explored the topic of#biomass gasification. His idea for the#AutAllo project is to gasify biomass—specifically waste wood—in a sustainable manner using compact, small-scale plants. Learn more in the web talk.
More information about the project is available here…
#1 Prof. Dr. Jörg Scheidt:
DMKG Headache Registry (Sept. 2020)
One of the seven research groups at the Institute for Information Systems at Hof University of Applied Sciences focuses on headaches. Recently, this group played a key role in creating a nationwide headache registry. We asked Prof. Dr. Jörg Scheidt, iisys research group leader in the “Analytical Information Systems” division, what the registry is all about, why a “hangover” isn’t a subject of research, and how the project saves time for patients and the medical community.
