20.12.2023
Season's Greetings 2023
President Professor Dr. Karla Pollmann reflects on the year 2023 in her letter to the alumni of the University of Tübingen.
Dear Alumni,
In 2023, various crises have had significant impacts on the lives of many people. The University of Tübingen, too, has felt the repercussions, mainly through substantial rises in heating and energy expenses. Despite these difficulties, however, the collective efforts of our alumni, donors, and university staff and students have made a significant and very successful contribution: together they have all contributed to maintaining the University of Tübingen as a hub of excellence and innovation. It is therefore with pride and joy that I share with you some of the developments at your alma mater in 2023.
As in 2022, the University of Tübingen has seen significant growth. We are delighted to announce the establishment of the Hertie Institute for Artificial Intelligence in Brain Health (Hertie AI), which was made possible by the generous support of the Hertie Foundation. Researchers at Hertie AI use artificial intelligence methods to analyze and advance the prevention and early diagnosis of diseases of the nervous system. The Tübingen AI Center also marked its foundation in 2023. The AI Center is dedicated to cutting-edge research that drives the development of robust learning systems for the benefit of society and the economy. The researchers at the new Center for Bionic Intelligence Tübingen-Stuttgart (BITS) are committed to pushing the boundaries of what was previously possible in the field of bionic research. They are developing intelligent bionic systems to provide people with physical and neurological disabilities with the best possible diagnostic and therapeutic solutions. Another significant milestone was achieved with the establishment of the state-funded Research Center for Right-Wing Extremism. Researchers at this center will analyze the attitudes, social environments, and communication methods of right-wing extremist individuals and groupings. The objective of this research center is to strengthen the resilience of state and social structures against a broad range of right-wing extremist ideologies. As this evidence clearly demonstrates, your alma mater remains committed to being a source of inspiration for innovative and socially relevant research.
In my role as President and Vice-Chancellor, I believe that it is crucial that research results, ideas, and findings are not only discussed within the university, but that there is a lively exchange between the university and society. To promote this, the University of Tübingen hosted again the Science and Innovation Days – a biennial science festival – in 2023. Over four days, more than 100 researchers discussed various aspects of the term "resilience" with citizens at 17 different locations in Tübingen. I was particularly pleased to see the strong involvement of an alumna of the university, Angélica Cruz Aguilar (Media Studies 2020). In collaboration with the Alumni Office, the Center for Media Competence, and the Institute for Media Studies, Angélica Cruz Aguilar showcased her documentary film "VIVAS" and took part as a guest in the panel discussion "Killed Because They Are Women: Resilience and Resistance in the Fight Against Femicide". In a recent interview, Angélica Cruz Aguilar said, "Use your university's network to promote projects and find support." I wholeheartedly agree: so please stay in touch with your alma mater and use our university network, as this can be immensely beneficial. If you have any questions, please visit the homepage of the Alumni Office or send an e-mail to alumni@uni-tuebingen.de.
In addition to companies, foundations, and associations, alumni play a crucial role in supporting the “Deutschlandstipendium” (“Germany Bursary”) at the University of Tübingen. Their generous contributions enable the University of Tübingen to grant scholarships to 186 promising young talents in 2024/25. In times of crisis, this is of great importance to our students, and I extend my heartfelt thanks to all donors for their commitment!
On behalf of the University of Tübingen, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your ongoing solidarity and support. Warmest wishes for a happy holiday season and good fortune and health throughout the coming year.
Yours sincerely,
Professor Dr. Dr. h.c. (Dōshisha) Karla Pollmann
President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Tübingen