Potsdam honors research talent: The first SUPERvisor Awards are presented!

Potsdam honors research talent: The first SUPERvisor Awards are presented!

On July 3, 2025, the Potsdam Graduate School (PoGS) presented the first SUPERvisor Awards at the University of Potsdam in the Botanical Garden. This award honored four outstanding scientists for their dedicated mentorship and significant impact on the academic community. The award winners were selected by a jury from a total of 84 nominees, which underlines the high quality of support at the university. In the “Daily Supervision” category, Dr. Stephanie Natho from the Institute of Environmental Sciences and Geography and Prof. Dr. Peer Trilcke, head of the Theodor Fontane Archive and German scholar, was honored.

In the “University Supervision” category, Dr. René Schneider from the Institute of Biochemistry and Biology and Prof. Dr. Fabian Schuppert, who belongs to the department for political and administrative science, received the honor. The award winners' recognition goes beyond personal skills, as their commitment also contributes to promoting interdisciplinary collaboration at the university.

Excellent care in focus

Dr. René Schneider was recognized for his social commitment and his exceptional support for scientific development. It promotes interdisciplinary exchange through initiatives such as the Summer BBQ and the Journal Club, which encourage doctoral students to actively participate in conferences and publish their research results. Also Dr. Stephanie Natho received recognition for her remarkable research mentorship. She coordinates laboratory work efficiently and supports her doctoral students in solving research problems and presenting their results.

Prof. Dr. Fabian Schuppert impresses with his technical expertise and mental support. He gives his protégés freedom for independent research and helps them participate in conferences and workshops by providing resources and support. Prof. Dr. Peer Trilcke is valued for his individual support. He creates a motivating work environment that combines research and personal challenges.

Supervision of doctoral students in university research

The supervision of doctoral students is a central issue for universities, as it contributes significantly to the success of a doctorate. The Potsdam University of Applied Sciences informs interested academic employees about how they can be supported with their doctorate. Interested parties should contact us, providing specific information such as name, email address and department. To register doctoral projects that have already started, comprehensive information is also required to ensure immediate support.

When looking for a suitable supervisor for a doctoral project, it is advisable to use several sources of information. In addition to making arrangements with professors, it is important to have personal conversations to clarify the supervision modalities. Questions regarding content as well as organizational aspects such as the regularity of support meetings should be addressed. In order to establish an effective supervision relationship, it is advisable to record the agreed aspects in a supervision agreement.

The continuous improvement in the quality of support at universities, as demonstrated by the SUPERvisor Awards, shows the high standards of the scientific landscape in Potsdam. These initiatives are a crucial step in optimally promoting the next generations of scientists and supporting them on their path to a doctorate.