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New Vice Rector Linß: Future-oriented steps for sustainability and research!
Prof. Dr. Torsten Linß, new vice-rector of the FernUniversität Hagen, focuses on research, internationalization and sustainability.
New Vice Rector Linß: Future-oriented steps for sustainability and research!
On June 1, 2023, Prof. Dr. Torsten Linß takes on the role of Prorector for Research, International Affairs and Sustainability at the FernUniversität in Hagen. The internationally recognized mathematician has been part of the university since 2011 and previously served as dean of the Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science. His election underlines the future-oriented realignment of the university, which must assert itself in a dynamic environment of digital transformation and globalization of higher education. On May 7, 2025, in addition to Linß, Michael Strotkemper was elected as the new Chancellor with a large majority, which consolidates the composition of the Rectorate fernstudie.net reported.
Torsten Linß plans to work closely with his colleagues in the coming weeks to get to know their expertise and challenges in the areas of research, internationalization and sustainability better. He strives to actively promote exchanges about future projects and the further development of the FernUniversität. His core tasks include, among other things, strengthening the CATALPA research center and promoting interdisciplinary research priorities that are of central importance for the academic development of the university.
Focal points of the new vice-rector's work
One of the new priorities that Linß has set is the topic of sustainability, which is becoming increasingly important in current university policy. The Vice Rector emphasizes that the FernUniversität must take challenges such as energy efficiency and climate neutrality seriously in order to meet North Rhine-Westphalia's goals of becoming climate neutral by 2030. This orientation is crucial not only for the university itself, but also for the role of the university in the context of global developments and environmental responsibility, as on the platform of DAAD is highlighted.
The spring shift of Linß’ work is also related to the goal of expanding international offerings. He is focusing on more flexibility for students and is planning to develop joint study programs with partner universities in order to offer students a broader academic range. The promotion of international collaborations and the development of sustainable research strategies are essential elements in Linß’ vision for the future of the FernUniversität.
The challenges facing the FernUniversität are not isolated, but reflect a global trend that is pushing universities to develop innovative solutions for the 2030 Agenda. Universities, such as the FernUniversität, act not only as educational institutions, but also as location factors for local economic development and contribute to strengthening the education system and employment, as reported in the DAAD is emphasized.
The central challenge for Linß and his colleagues will be to find the balance between excellent teaching, innovative research and social responsibility. This will also play a crucial role in establishing the FernUniversität as a leading institution for modern, sustainable higher education in the coming years.