

"Why I do Research..."
With fresh ideas and tireless research spirit, early career researchers dedicate themselves to tackling the key challenges — whether through fundamental research or practical solutions. At the beginning of their academic careers, they bring new perspectives and creative impulses to their fields, leaving a lasting impact on science.
At the University of Duisburg-Essen, they find an inspiring environment that emphasises teamwork, initiative, and interdisciplinary exchange.
In our series "Why I Do Research", young researchers share what motivates them to head to the lab each day, offer valuable advice and show how they make science tangible and exciting for the public.
Was gerade an der UDE passiert

Why I do Research: Nazmun NaharProtecting the environment more effectively
When Nazmun Nahar works in the laboratory, she looks beneath the surface – literally. She studies how common herbicides impact the tiny creatures living on riverbeds. At UDE, her mission is clear: to better protect life in rivers and streams through smarter analyses.

Why I do Research: Magnus Liebherr How the Brain Responds to AI
What happens in our brains when we interact with ChatGPT or collaborate with a robot? This is the focus of Dr Magnus Liebherr’s research. As a research group leader, he connects two worlds: psychology and engineering.

Why I do Research: Shaista Khaliq At the Intersection of Instrumental Chemistry and Biology
Shaista Khaliq studies how animals and plants are interconnected within ecosystems. She employs isotope analysis, a method in instrumental analytical chemistry, to investigate where organisms obtain their nutrients and how parasites influence their hosts.

Why I Do Research: Julian EnßFascination Under Water

Why I do research: Nils LeimkühlerWhen the bone marrow scars

Why I do research: Stephanie AntonsUnderstanding addictive behaviour

Why I do research: Jan BalzerA new approach to terahertz

Why I do research: Nadia SamakNadia Samak fights for clean ground water

Why I do research: Magdalena Wischnewski Can I trust you, AI?

Why I do research: Vineetha VinayakumarMaking electrodes robust for H2 production

Why I do research: Filiz ÖzkanUnderstanding the Immune System

Why I do research: Abbas El MoussawiTailoring new materials
