The Week at TU Braunschweig | 23.10.2026 Our Newsletter for all Employees
Topics: Street-based laboratory + Mentor for deaf trainees + Police as a practice partner
Editor: Elisabeth Hahn
► PHP security vulnerability fixed: TU systems accessible again
Web-based applications worldwide were affected by a security vulnerability in the PHP programming language. TU Braunschweig had therefore taken precautionary measures: the website and other affected services were inaccessible from outside the network on 21 October between 2 pm and 7 pm. The services could still be accessed via a VPN connection. The security vulnerability has now been fixed. Almost all services are once again accessible as normal.
► Bioasphalt: From the laboratory to Braunschweig’s roads
Researchers from the Institute of Road Engineering at TU Braunschweig, in collaboration with researchers from TU Vienna and the University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland, have developed a bioasphalt. In collaboration with the City of Braunschweig, they are now testing on a trial stretch of road whether this more sustainable building material delivers under real-world conditions what it promised in the laboratory.
► New research into Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
A research team headed by TU Braunschweig is investigating how the interaction between dormant herpes viruses and inflammatory processes could contribute to degenerative diseases. The findings could open up new avenues for prevention and treatment. The project is funded by the VW Foundation with around two million euros.
► TUgether – Student Future Days: Digital inspiration for the future
From 9 to 13 November, the TU9 universities are inviting students to over 30 digital mini-workshops and lectures. The focus is on digital and transformative skills, as well as exchange across university boundaries. Participation is free of charge and no registration is required. Spread the word!
► “TechHeritage” project: University collections in dialogue
Students have catalogued collection items from three university collections. Selected pieces, including a camera from the 1960s, are on display at the University Library until 25 October.
► Interview with the GeDiMINT team: Gender dimensions in STEM research
In this interview, the GeDiMINT team explains how diverse perspectives enrich research. The Transforming Cities conference on 27 and 28 October will showcase concrete examples from the circular economy, urban development and mobility.
► Inaugural lectures
Professors of the Faculty of Humanities and Education will give their inaugural lectures on 28 October: Prof. Katharina Kellermann about “Was macht Sprache bildungssprachlich? Sprachbildung im Deutschen in Zeiten der Digitalisierung“ and Prof. Jan-Erik Leonhardt about “Das kann doch die KI? Englischdidaktik für eine postdigitale Gesellschaft“.
► He is the mentor he himself never had
At the Institute of Steel Structures, Nils Neppe, a deaf precision engineer, provides training in sign language. In doing so, Neppe is the mentor for young people with hearing impairments that he himself lacked during his own education. In an interview, he and his trainees, Osama Al Rifai and Niklas Pollehn, talk about their experiences.
► For accessibility and a sense of belonging: New “TU Guest Card” for visiting researchers
With the new card from the Research Services, visitors conducting research at our university for longer than one month can access all services directly. Anyone who is already at the TU and has at least one month left on their stay can also apply for the TU Guest Card.
► Invitation: TU Teaching Awards Ceremony 2026
For the third time, students have had the opportunity to nominate outstanding courses from the last two semesters. The winners will be announced on 3 November. Do come along!
► “Impulshäppchen”: A positive culture of learning from mistakes
The Central Staff Development team invites you to the next digital lunch event. On 3 November, Prof. Miriam Müthel from WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management will explain how we can admit to mistakes and learn from them. No registration is required.
► “Alter Verwalter” networking event: Register now
Attention all curious administrative staff: on 17 November, the focus will be on how we can make our work fulfilling and successful. Register with the event by 30 October!
► “Faszination Wissenschaft” with the Science & Art Lab
Until the end of November, the “Faszination Wissenschaft” exhibition at halle267 will be showing portrait photographs of researchers, taken by the photographer Herlinde Koelbl. As part of the supporting programme, the Science & Art Lab will be offering an insight into its work on 29 October.
► University competition in the Science Year 2027 – Space
We are seeking communication ideas from all fields of study that bring research to life and actively engage the public in dialogue. Teams can win 10,000 euros to implement the best ideas. Applications must be submitted by 25 November.
► Study: How do researchers experience professional visibility?
What psychological factors influence how visible researchers are in their profession? The PSY:SICHT research project at Hamm-Lippstadt University of Applied Sciences and Münster University of Applied Sciences aims to find this out and invites researchers / scientists to take part in a survey.
► Information event: Responsible Research at the TU Braunschweig
The tension between academic freedom and legal requirements is the topic of the discussion panel on 26 October in the Historic Main Building. The new brochure on ethical research will also be presented. Those unable to attend in person can watch the live stream. Please register with Carolina Esser.
► CO-DIALOG on the CO_LIVING CAMPUS
Where does the CO_Living Campus project stand as the winter semester begins? On 27 October from 10.00 am, the project team is once again inviting people to a discussion. The meeting point is the foyer of Faculty 6.
► City of the Future: “Research Meets Police Practice”
The Braunschweig Police Department wishes to play a greater role as a practical partner in interdisciplinary research projects. At the exchange event on 4 November, researchers and the police can present ideas and develop joint approaches. Please send registrations and project ideas to Anna Lux by 27 October.
► Call for Proposals: International Innovation Projects with Japan
A joint call for proposals by the international innovation network Eureka and the Japanese funding agency NEDO facilitates bilateral and multilateral research and development projects with Japan and 14 other Eureka countries. For German institutions, the Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space provides funding for market-oriented projects in various subject areas. Applications may be submitted until 20 January 2027.
► Our darlings of the week
… are breathing new life into our Campus as the winter semester gets underway: our freshers! We’re delighted that our TU family is growing – particularly on the Master’s programmes. If you’d like to reminisce about the first day, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.
► Events
There is always something going on at TU Braunschweig. Discussions, information events, concerts and much more. Take a look at our calendar of events and get inspired.