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With a big farewell: University of Stuttgart honors Prof. Effenberger
The University of Stuttgart remembers Prof. Effenberger, former rector and chemistry pioneer, on April 4, 2025. Registration required.
With a big farewell: University of Stuttgart honors Prof. Effenberger
On March 8, 2025, the University of Stuttgart will say goodbye to one of its most important academics: Prof. em. Dr. Dr. h.c. Franz Effenberger, who died on December 11, 2024 at the age of 94. As a former rector, vice-rector and head of the Institute of Organic Chemistry, Effenberger leaves a remarkable legacy in the world of science and education.
Franz Effenberger was not only an outstanding personality at the University of Stuttgart, but also a respected chemist and researcher. After studying textile engineering in Krefeld and chemistry at the Technical University of Stuttgart, he received his doctorate in 1958 with a thesis on heterocyclic ring systems. His habilitation followed in 1964 in organic chemistry, and in 1971 he became professor and director of the Institute for Organic Chemistry at his alma mater. During his term as vice-rector from 1980 to 1986 and rector from 1987 to 1990, he made significant contributions to the progress of the university.
A worker for innovation
Effenberger was instrumental in the implementation of new technologies within the university. His achievements include the founding of the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Technology (ZSW) Stuttgart/Ulm as well as the financing and construction of the Hysolar building. In addition, he pushed forward the establishment of the Center for Bioprocess Engineering and ensured the profile of computer science through the establishment of the Institute for Parallel and Distributed Systems.
His commitment to research is also reflected in his international recognition. Effenberger published around 350 scientific papers and held more than 55 patents in collaboration with industry. His research areas included the chemistry of aromatics, molecular electronics and methods of synthesis using enzymes. Effenberger was a pioneer and pioneering scientist who shaped chemical research for more than half a century.
A legacy of teaching
As a mentor and teacher, Effenberger influenced generations of students and employees. His extensive visiting professorships at renowned institutions such as Cornell University and the Ecole Supérieure de Physique et Chimie in Paris bear witness to his international influence. In addition to his academic career, he led numerous projects to reform chemistry studies and to establish a major in bioprocess engineering.
His autobiography “From Aromatics and Heterocycles to Bio- and Nanotechnology”, published in 2023, provided a special look at his life’s work. Here he reflected on his career and the significant developments in chemistry that shaped his life.
Commemorations and honors
The University of Stuttgart is honoring Franz Effenberger's lifelong commitment with a memorial service that will take place on April 4, 2025 at 2 p.m. in lecture hall 55.02, Pfaffenwaldring 55 in Stuttgart. The event will include lectures on his achievements and provide an opportunity to get together. Registration is required by March 15, 2025.
His awards, including the Humboldt Research Prize, the Federal Cross of Merit 1st Class and an honorary doctorate from the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria in Brazil, reflect his outstanding contribution to science. His vision and commitment have significantly shaped the Institute for Textile Chemistry and Man-Made Fibers at the German Institute for Textile and Fiber Research (DITF) and made it internationally known.
Prof. Effenberger's legacy will continue to live on in the academic and scientific community, as the University of Stuttgart and the DITF look back on his life's work with gratitude.