KSQM Calendar
07.Jul
9:00
Hotel-Resort Waldachtal
KSQM Members
Get ready for this year's retreat—it's going to be an amazing experience! Here’s what’s in store:
Oral Presentation Sessions: Dive into engaging discussions and share your latest research findings with fellow members.
Invited Talk „Maintain your Mental Health & Stability in PhD“ by Dr. Matthias Rudlof, psychologist & systemic and holistic coach
The interactive lecture on Mental Health for Scientists is about the connections between inner mental health and personal productivity in scientific work, communication and cooperation. The lecture will present awareness tools and strategies for mental clarity and emotional and energetic balance in research work.
Mental stability and flexibility with a good inner focus and motivation can lead to much more productive and creative work than if the researcher has to deal with states of low energy, motivational crises and depressive feelings.
In the interactive lecture, we will experience in small exercises how we ourselves can control and thus positively influence our energy, our emotions and inner stability, which are the basis of our personal productivity.
The event aims to contribute to a more open communication culture in science, in which researchers can speak openly and without shame about their mental, psychological and social stresses and challenges and seek support.
Topics:
- Dealing with impostor syndrome, inner critic/perfectionism
- From toxic to productive self-talk: Transforming negative beliefs into positive beliefs
- Problems with self-esteem and sources of self-confidence
- Dealing with criticism culture and rituals in science
- Dealing with a lack of appreciation and recognition of one's own work
- Dealing with many construction sites at the same time - scattering or focusing
- Agile working in steps instead of fainting in front of the big mountain
- Transforming procrastination into flowing work with good energy
- Clarifying dissonance and boundary management in important relationships (with collegues, superiors, superiors)
- Dealing with structural stress (increased workload, insecure employment situation and future, competitive culture and isolation, bullying and (sexual) discrimination)
Networking Opportunities: Meet and mingle with other members in a relaxed, friendly setting designed for building connections and swapping ideas.
We can’t wait to see you there and make KSQM Retreat 2025 something truly special!
Oral Presentation Sessions: Dive into engaging discussions and share your latest research findings with fellow members.
Invited Talk „Maintain your Mental Health & Stability in PhD“ by Dr. Matthias Rudlof, psychologist & systemic and holistic coach
The interactive lecture on Mental Health for Scientists is about the connections between inner mental health and personal productivity in scientific work, communication and cooperation. The lecture will present awareness tools and strategies for mental clarity and emotional and energetic balance in research work.
Mental stability and flexibility with a good inner focus and motivation can lead to much more productive and creative work than if the researcher has to deal with states of low energy, motivational crises and depressive feelings.
In the interactive lecture, we will experience in small exercises how we ourselves can control and thus positively influence our energy, our emotions and inner stability, which are the basis of our personal productivity.
The event aims to contribute to a more open communication culture in science, in which researchers can speak openly and without shame about their mental, psychological and social stresses and challenges and seek support.
Topics:
- Dealing with impostor syndrome, inner critic/perfectionism
- From toxic to productive self-talk: Transforming negative beliefs into positive beliefs
- Problems with self-esteem and sources of self-confidence
- Dealing with criticism culture and rituals in science
- Dealing with a lack of appreciation and recognition of one's own work
- Dealing with many construction sites at the same time - scattering or focusing
- Agile working in steps instead of fainting in front of the big mountain
- Transforming procrastination into flowing work with good energy
- Clarifying dissonance and boundary management in important relationships (with collegues, superiors, superiors)
- Dealing with structural stress (increased workload, insecure employment situation and future, competitive culture and isolation, bullying and (sexual) discrimination)
Networking Opportunities: Meet and mingle with other members in a relaxed, friendly setting designed for building connections and swapping ideas.
We can’t wait to see you there and make KSQM Retreat 2025 something truly special!
08.Jul
9:00
Hotel-Resort Waldachtal
KSQM Members
Get ready for this year's retreat—it's going to be an amazing experience! Here’s what’s in store:
Oral Presentation Sessions: Dive into engaging discussions and share your latest research findings with fellow members.
Invited Talk „Maintain your Mental Health & Stability in PhD“ by Dr. Matthias Rudlof, psychologist & systemic and holistic coach
The interactive lecture on Mental Health for Scientists is about the connections between inner mental health and personal productivity in scientific work, communication and cooperation. The lecture will present awareness tools and strategies for mental clarity and emotional and energetic balance in research work.
Mental stability and flexibility with a good inner focus and motivation can lead to much more productive and creative work than if the researcher has to deal with states of low energy, motivational crises and depressive feelings.
In the interactive lecture, we will experience in small exercises how we ourselves can control and thus positively influence our energy, our emotions and inner stability, which are the basis of our personal productivity.
The event aims to contribute to a more open communication culture in science, in which researchers can speak openly and without shame about their mental, psychological and social stresses and challenges and seek support.
Topics:
- Dealing with impostor syndrome, inner critic/perfectionism
- From toxic to productive self-talk: Transforming negative beliefs into positive beliefs
- Problems with self-esteem and sources of self-confidence
- Dealing with criticism culture and rituals in science
- Dealing with a lack of appreciation and recognition of one's own work
- Dealing with many construction sites at the same time - scattering or focusing
- Agile working in steps instead of fainting in front of the big mountain
- Transforming procrastination into flowing work with good energy
- Clarifying dissonance and boundary management in important relationships (with collegues, superiors, superiors)
- Dealing with structural stress (increased workload, insecure employment situation and future, competitive culture and isolation, bullying and (sexual) discrimination)
Networking Opportunities: Meet and mingle with other members in a relaxed, friendly setting designed for building connections and swapping ideas.
We can’t wait to see you there and make KSQM Retreat 2025 something truly special!
Oral Presentation Sessions: Dive into engaging discussions and share your latest research findings with fellow members.
Invited Talk „Maintain your Mental Health & Stability in PhD“ by Dr. Matthias Rudlof, psychologist & systemic and holistic coach
The interactive lecture on Mental Health for Scientists is about the connections between inner mental health and personal productivity in scientific work, communication and cooperation. The lecture will present awareness tools and strategies for mental clarity and emotional and energetic balance in research work.
Mental stability and flexibility with a good inner focus and motivation can lead to much more productive and creative work than if the researcher has to deal with states of low energy, motivational crises and depressive feelings.
In the interactive lecture, we will experience in small exercises how we ourselves can control and thus positively influence our energy, our emotions and inner stability, which are the basis of our personal productivity.
The event aims to contribute to a more open communication culture in science, in which researchers can speak openly and without shame about their mental, psychological and social stresses and challenges and seek support.
Topics:
- Dealing with impostor syndrome, inner critic/perfectionism
- From toxic to productive self-talk: Transforming negative beliefs into positive beliefs
- Problems with self-esteem and sources of self-confidence
- Dealing with criticism culture and rituals in science
- Dealing with a lack of appreciation and recognition of one's own work
- Dealing with many construction sites at the same time - scattering or focusing
- Agile working in steps instead of fainting in front of the big mountain
- Transforming procrastination into flowing work with good energy
- Clarifying dissonance and boundary management in important relationships (with collegues, superiors, superiors)
- Dealing with structural stress (increased workload, insecure employment situation and future, competitive culture and isolation, bullying and (sexual) discrimination)
Networking Opportunities: Meet and mingle with other members in a relaxed, friendly setting designed for building connections and swapping ideas.
We can’t wait to see you there and make KSQM Retreat 2025 something truly special!
09.Jul
9:00
Hotel-Resort Waldachtal
KSQM Members
Get ready for this year's retreat—it's going to be an amazing experience! Here’s what’s in store:
Oral Presentation Sessions: Dive into engaging discussions and share your latest research findings with fellow members.
Invited Talk „Maintain your Mental Health & Stability in PhD“ by Dr. Matthias Rudlof, psychologist & systemic and holistic coach
The interactive lecture on Mental Health for Scientists is about the connections between inner mental health and personal productivity in scientific work, communication and cooperation. The lecture will present awareness tools and strategies for mental clarity and emotional and energetic balance in research work.
Mental stability and flexibility with a good inner focus and motivation can lead to much more productive and creative work than if the researcher has to deal with states of low energy, motivational crises and depressive feelings.
In the interactive lecture, we will experience in small exercises how we ourselves can control and thus positively influence our energy, our emotions and inner stability, which are the basis of our personal productivity.
The event aims to contribute to a more open communication culture in science, in which researchers can speak openly and without shame about their mental, psychological and social stresses and challenges and seek support.
Topics:
- Dealing with impostor syndrome, inner critic/perfectionism
- From toxic to productive self-talk: Transforming negative beliefs into positive beliefs
- Problems with self-esteem and sources of self-confidence
- Dealing with criticism culture and rituals in science
- Dealing with a lack of appreciation and recognition of one's own work
- Dealing with many construction sites at the same time - scattering or focusing
- Agile working in steps instead of fainting in front of the big mountain
- Transforming procrastination into flowing work with good energy
- Clarifying dissonance and boundary management in important relationships (with collegues, superiors, superiors)
- Dealing with structural stress (increased workload, insecure employment situation and future, competitive culture and isolation, bullying and (sexual) discrimination)
Networking Opportunities: Meet and mingle with other members in a relaxed, friendly setting designed for building connections and swapping ideas.
We can’t wait to see you there and make KSQM Retreat 2025 something truly special!
Oral Presentation Sessions: Dive into engaging discussions and share your latest research findings with fellow members.
Invited Talk „Maintain your Mental Health & Stability in PhD“ by Dr. Matthias Rudlof, psychologist & systemic and holistic coach
The interactive lecture on Mental Health for Scientists is about the connections between inner mental health and personal productivity in scientific work, communication and cooperation. The lecture will present awareness tools and strategies for mental clarity and emotional and energetic balance in research work.
Mental stability and flexibility with a good inner focus and motivation can lead to much more productive and creative work than if the researcher has to deal with states of low energy, motivational crises and depressive feelings.
In the interactive lecture, we will experience in small exercises how we ourselves can control and thus positively influence our energy, our emotions and inner stability, which are the basis of our personal productivity.
The event aims to contribute to a more open communication culture in science, in which researchers can speak openly and without shame about their mental, psychological and social stresses and challenges and seek support.
Topics:
- Dealing with impostor syndrome, inner critic/perfectionism
- From toxic to productive self-talk: Transforming negative beliefs into positive beliefs
- Problems with self-esteem and sources of self-confidence
- Dealing with criticism culture and rituals in science
- Dealing with a lack of appreciation and recognition of one's own work
- Dealing with many construction sites at the same time - scattering or focusing
- Agile working in steps instead of fainting in front of the big mountain
- Transforming procrastination into flowing work with good energy
- Clarifying dissonance and boundary management in important relationships (with collegues, superiors, superiors)
- Dealing with structural stress (increased workload, insecure employment situation and future, competitive culture and isolation, bullying and (sexual) discrimination)
Networking Opportunities: Meet and mingle with other members in a relaxed, friendly setting designed for building connections and swapping ideas.
We can’t wait to see you there and make KSQM Retreat 2025 something truly special!
22.Jul
15:45
KIT, CS
Building 30.23 Room 8/2 …
Building 30.23 Room 8/2 …
Dr. Yi Yao & Dr. Sebastian Kuntz
KSQM Coffee & Cake Events provide the opportunity for PhD students to interact with distinguished alumni in an informal format and setting; PIs are not present.
Thanks to Prof. Matthieu Le Tacon, we are pleased to have Yi and Sebastian to our upcoming alumni event, where they will share their career insights and advice with KSQM members.
Yi Yao: From Quantum materials to laser physics: a journey from KIT to industrial photonics at TRUMPF
Yi was born in Chengdu, China, and began her academic journey in Materials Science and Technology at the University of Science and Technology Beijing. Driven by a curiosity for advanced materials, she pursued a prestigious Erasmus Mundus double master’s degree, studying in France (University of Rennes 1) and Germany (LMU/TUM), graduating with distinction.
In 2018, Yi joined the Institute of Quantum Materials and Technology (IQMT) of Prof. Matthieu le Tacon at KIT as a research associate. Her doctoral research focused on light-matter interactions in quantum materials using advanced spectroscopic techniques, uncovering complex couplings and phase behaviors in correlated electron systems.
After defending her PhD in 2021, Yi transitioned into industry, joining TRUMPF as a system engineer. There, she worked on the development and integration of the driver laser—an essential light source in the EUV lithography process—supporting prototype testing, customer site acceptance, and system-level performance analysis. After two years, she moved to the simulation group, where she is currently focused on modeling and optimizing laser amplification processes. Her work allows her to apply and expand on her background in spectroscopy and laser technology while contributing to the interface between research and industrial development.
Sebastian: From Scientific Foundations to High-Tech Innovation
Sebastian grew up in a small village nestled in the Palatinate Forest before moving to Karlsruhe to study physics at KIT. During his Master's thesis at the Physical Institute, he investigated the electronic properties of the rare-earth element cerium—particularly at low temperatures—focusing on the crucial role played by its solitary 4f electron.
For his PhD, he joined the Institute for Quantum Materials and Technologies (IQMT) at KIT, where he explored frustrated quantum critical systems in heavy fermion compounds, again under extreme cryogenic conditions.
After completing his doctorate, transitioned into industry, joining the R&D department at Physik Instrumente (PI), a global leader in ultra-precise positioning technologies. Today, he works as a Senior Research Engineer in the Global Innovation unit, where his focus spans optics, simulations, and integrated photonics. Drawing on his academic experience, he also leads the company’s focus team on Vacuum and Cryogenics, and serves as an innovation scout for both photonics and cryogenic technologies.
Thanks to Prof. Matthieu Le Tacon, we are pleased to have Yi and Sebastian to our upcoming alumni event, where they will share their career insights and advice with KSQM members.
Yi Yao: From Quantum materials to laser physics: a journey from KIT to industrial photonics at TRUMPF
Yi was born in Chengdu, China, and began her academic journey in Materials Science and Technology at the University of Science and Technology Beijing. Driven by a curiosity for advanced materials, she pursued a prestigious Erasmus Mundus double master’s degree, studying in France (University of Rennes 1) and Germany (LMU/TUM), graduating with distinction.
In 2018, Yi joined the Institute of Quantum Materials and Technology (IQMT) of Prof. Matthieu le Tacon at KIT as a research associate. Her doctoral research focused on light-matter interactions in quantum materials using advanced spectroscopic techniques, uncovering complex couplings and phase behaviors in correlated electron systems.
After defending her PhD in 2021, Yi transitioned into industry, joining TRUMPF as a system engineer. There, she worked on the development and integration of the driver laser—an essential light source in the EUV lithography process—supporting prototype testing, customer site acceptance, and system-level performance analysis. After two years, she moved to the simulation group, where she is currently focused on modeling and optimizing laser amplification processes. Her work allows her to apply and expand on her background in spectroscopy and laser technology while contributing to the interface between research and industrial development.
Sebastian: From Scientific Foundations to High-Tech Innovation
Sebastian grew up in a small village nestled in the Palatinate Forest before moving to Karlsruhe to study physics at KIT. During his Master's thesis at the Physical Institute, he investigated the electronic properties of the rare-earth element cerium—particularly at low temperatures—focusing on the crucial role played by its solitary 4f electron.
For his PhD, he joined the Institute for Quantum Materials and Technologies (IQMT) at KIT, where he explored frustrated quantum critical systems in heavy fermion compounds, again under extreme cryogenic conditions.
After completing his doctorate, transitioned into industry, joining the R&D department at Physik Instrumente (PI), a global leader in ultra-precise positioning technologies. Today, he works as a Senior Research Engineer in the Global Innovation unit, where his focus spans optics, simulations, and integrated photonics. Drawing on his academic experience, he also leads the company’s focus team on Vacuum and Cryogenics, and serves as an innovation scout for both photonics and cryogenic technologies.
09.Oct
9:00
online
Karl-Heinz Sylla, Fraunhofer-Institut für Intelligente Analyse- und Informationssysteme IAIS
This four-part seminar focuses on the technology, structure, and use of Big Data systems. It begins with the fundamentals of cluster technology and scalable, high-availability data. Subsequent sessions deal with systems and libraries for data storage and processing related to these topics. Concepts and functionalities are explained and demonstrated. Participants will learn how to install and use these systems locally. Using Python examples, participants will be familiarised with the systems and will be able to assess their areas of application.
Introduction to Big Data: Scalable, Highly Available Storage and Systems Efficient Data Processing with Spark Key-Value and Wide Column Stores for Fast Access Data Understanding and Visualisation
About the trainer: Karl-Heinz Sylla works as a Senior Scientist at Fraunhofer IAIS. He is a system architect and serves as project lead for both industrial and research projects, as well as a seminar instructor and speaker on topics related to software engineering.
His current work focuses on the architecture and design of big data systems and their application-specific implementations.
16.Oct
9:00
online
Karl-Heinz Sylla, Fraunhofer-Institut für Intelligente Analyse- und Informationssysteme IAIS
This four-part seminar focuses on the technology, structure, and use of Big Data systems. It begins with the fundamentals of cluster technology and scalable, high-availability data. Subsequent sessions deal with systems and libraries for data storage and processing related to these topics. Concepts and functionalities are explained and demonstrated. Participants will learn how to install and use these systems locally. Using Python examples, participants will be familiarised with the systems and will be able to assess their areas of application.
Introduction to Big Data: Scalable, Highly Available Storage and Systems Efficient Data Processing with Spark Key-Value and Wide Column Stores for Fast Access Data Understanding and Visualisation
About the trainer: Karl-Heinz Sylla works as a Senior Scientist at Fraunhofer IAIS. He is a system architect and serves as project lead for both industrial and research projects, as well as a seminar instructor and speaker on topics related to software engineering.
His current work focuses on the architecture and design of big data systems and their application-specific implementations.
23.Oct
9:00
online
Karl-Heinz Sylla, Fraunhofer-Institut für Intelligente Analyse- und Informationssysteme IAIS
This four-part seminar focuses on the technology, structure, and use of Big Data systems. It begins with the fundamentals of cluster technology and scalable, high-availability data. Subsequent sessions deal with systems and libraries for data storage and processing related to these topics. Concepts and functionalities are explained and demonstrated. Participants will learn how to install and use these systems locally. Using Python examples, participants will be familiarised with the systems and will be able to assess their areas of application.
Introduction to Big Data: Scalable, Highly Available Storage and Systems Efficient Data Processing with Spark Key-Value and Wide Column Stores for Fast Access Data Understanding and Visualisation
About the trainer: Karl-Heinz Sylla works as a Senior Scientist at Fraunhofer IAIS. He is a system architect and serves as project lead for both industrial and research projects, as well as a seminar instructor and speaker on topics related to software engineering.
His current work focuses on the architecture and design of big data systems and their application-specific implementations.
30.Oct
9:00
online
Karl-Heinz Sylla, Fraunhofer-Institut für Intelligente Analyse- und Informationssysteme IAIS
This four-part seminar focuses on the technology, structure, and use of Big Data systems. It begins with the fundamentals of cluster technology and scalable, high-availability data. Subsequent sessions deal with systems and libraries for data storage and processing related to these topics. Concepts and functionalities are explained and demonstrated. Participants will learn how to install and use these systems locally. Using Python examples, participants will be familiarised with the systems and will be able to assess their areas of application.
Introduction to Big Data: Scalable, Highly Available Storage and Systems Efficient Data Processing with Spark Key-Value and Wide Column Stores for Fast Access Data Understanding and Visualisation
About the trainer: Karl-Heinz Sylla works as a Senior Scientist at Fraunhofer IAIS. He is a system architect and serves as project lead for both industrial and research projects, as well as a seminar instructor and speaker on topics related to software engineering.
His current work focuses on the architecture and design of big data systems and their application-specific implementations.
26.Nov
9:00
Workshop
Effective Visual Communication of Science - how to create effective images, slides, posters, and grants
MZE (Building 30.48), ground floor R017
Dr. Jernej Zupanc, Seyens Ltd.
You will learn the Seyens Method™—a comprehensive design philosophy, process, and set of strategies tailored specifically for scientists to visually communicate your own complex ideas so your messages are effortlessly understood by scientists or non-scientists.
It is a structured, no fluff, memorable, easy to follow, useful and fun training that will empower and enable you to create effective images, slides, posters, and grants. You will imediatelly apply the new skills to communicate your own science, draw a graphical abstract and discuss it with your peers and receive actionable feedback on your images and slides.
Aim:
You will learn the Seyens Method™—a comprehensive design philosophy, process, and set of strategies tailored specifically for scientists to visually communicate your own complex ideas so your messages are effortlessly understood by scientists or non-scientists.
It is a structured, no fluff, memorable, easy to follow, useful and fun training that will empower and enable you to create effective images, slides, posters, and grants. You will imediatelly apply the new skills to communicate your own science, draw a graphical abstract and discuss it with your peers and receive actionable feedback on your images and slides.
Content:
Self-study module—Mandatory Fundamentals, Slides, and Homework (5 h)
Fundamental Visual Communication: understand how human visual perception and psychology shape our interpretation of visual information. Discover a science-based design method to visualize your research, making it easily comprehensible. We will cover strategic use of layout, eye-flow, colors, and typography applied to all types of scientific images. Slides, Posters, Grants: you will learn how to apply the Seyens Method™ design philosophy and strategies introduced in the Fundamentals to slides, posters, and grants. This will give you a holistic approach that builds from the first principles, makes sense and is easy to remember and apply. Homework: submit your images and slides to receive personalized feedback.
Live Workshop—In person (7–8 h)
Recap and Q&A: an effective review of self-study topics and optional
1-on-1 consulting with facilitator to address your individual challenges. Feedback on your submitted materials: you will get actionable suggestions
on how to improve your own scientific images and slides. Discussions on your own posters, grants, and other means of visual science communication encouraged. Graphical abstract drawing exercise: you will draw a sketch of your research Peer-instruction group discussion: you will give and receive informed and structured feedback to improve yours’ and other participants’ images.
Trainer: Dr. Jernej Zupanc, Founder of Seyens Ltd.
"My mission is to empower scientists to effectively communicate their ideas and findings, maximizing the impact of their research. I am passionate about teaching and communication, continually seeking innovative approaches from various fields that can be quickly and easily applied by scientists. I simplify these principles into engaging learning experiences where participants imediatelly get results."
It is a structured, no fluff, memorable, easy to follow, useful and fun training that will empower and enable you to create effective images, slides, posters, and grants. You will imediatelly apply the new skills to communicate your own science, draw a graphical abstract and discuss it with your peers and receive actionable feedback on your images and slides.
Aim:
You will learn the Seyens Method™—a comprehensive design philosophy, process, and set of strategies tailored specifically for scientists to visually communicate your own complex ideas so your messages are effortlessly understood by scientists or non-scientists.
It is a structured, no fluff, memorable, easy to follow, useful and fun training that will empower and enable you to create effective images, slides, posters, and grants. You will imediatelly apply the new skills to communicate your own science, draw a graphical abstract and discuss it with your peers and receive actionable feedback on your images and slides.
Content:
Self-study module—Mandatory Fundamentals, Slides, and Homework (5 h)
Fundamental Visual Communication: understand how human visual perception and psychology shape our interpretation of visual information. Discover a science-based design method to visualize your research, making it easily comprehensible. We will cover strategic use of layout, eye-flow, colors, and typography applied to all types of scientific images. Slides, Posters, Grants: you will learn how to apply the Seyens Method™ design philosophy and strategies introduced in the Fundamentals to slides, posters, and grants. This will give you a holistic approach that builds from the first principles, makes sense and is easy to remember and apply. Homework: submit your images and slides to receive personalized feedback.
Live Workshop—In person (7–8 h)
Recap and Q&A: an effective review of self-study topics and optional
1-on-1 consulting with facilitator to address your individual challenges. Feedback on your submitted materials: you will get actionable suggestions
on how to improve your own scientific images and slides. Discussions on your own posters, grants, and other means of visual science communication encouraged. Graphical abstract drawing exercise: you will draw a sketch of your research Peer-instruction group discussion: you will give and receive informed and structured feedback to improve yours’ and other participants’ images.
Trainer: Dr. Jernej Zupanc, Founder of Seyens Ltd.
"My mission is to empower scientists to effectively communicate their ideas and findings, maximizing the impact of their research. I am passionate about teaching and communication, continually seeking innovative approaches from various fields that can be quickly and easily applied by scientists. I simplify these principles into engaging learning experiences where participants imediatelly get results."
