Several people are standing on the viewing platform of the television tower and talking.

Festive reception for newly appointed professors

July 16, 2025

With a spectacular view over Stuttgart and an impressive sunset, Rector Prof. Peter Middendorf welcomed the newly appointed professors on the Stuttgart television tower on July 10.
[Picture: Stephanie Trenz / University of Stuttgart]

All newly appointed professors from the second half of 2023 to the first half of 2025 were invited to the exclusive sundowner, together with members of the extended Rectorate and other colleagues from the university. The event was organized in cooperation with Wirtschaftsförderung Region Stuttgart GmbH and the Stuttgart Convention Bureau, whose representatives provided exciting insights into the many opportunities for cooperation in the economically and culturally strong Stuttgart region.

Rector Prof. Peter Middendorf speaks into a microphone.
Rector Prof. Peter Middendorf welcomed the new professors.
Image: Stephanie Trenz / University of Stuttgart

A highlight of the evening was the scientific lecture by Prof. Michael Saliba from the Institute of Photovoltaics, who introduced the audience to the world of perovskites and demonstrated their revolutionary benefits for photovoltaics. His multidisciplinary view of a forward-looking subject area once again illustrated how different disciplines can approach a research topic – very much in the spirit of the Stuttgart Way.

Several people sit with their backs to the photographer and listen to Prof. Saliba, who is standing in front of them at a laptop. In the background, you can see the view from the television tower through large windows.
Prof. Michael Saliba spoke about the opportunities and challenges of perovskite materials for a renewable energy future.
Image: Stephanie Trenz / Universität Stuttgart

After this inspiring talk, it was time to enjoy the breathtaking 360-degree view of Stuttgart at sunset from the viewing platform. The perfect weather and the fresh breeze created an unforgettable atmosphere. With delicious finger food, perfect musical accompaniment from professorial DJ Prof. Jens Anders and a unique ambience, the event offered plenty  of opportunity for stimulating conversations and valuable networking.

It was an evening that not only showcased the beauty of Stuttgart, but also celebrated the university's dynamic and innovative community.

Professor Kluger and Professor Seifert look down from the television tower in the evening light.
Prof. Petra Kluger and Prof. Annika Seifert enjoyed the spectacular view over Stuttgart.
Image: Stephanie Trenz / Universität Stuttgart
Through the bars of the fall protection system, you can see a group of people talking on the viewing platform of the TV tower from above.
The sundowner provided a good opportunity to get to know each other and network.
Image: Stephanie Trenz / Universität Stuttgart

The newly appointed professors since August 2023:

Welcome series
The annual Sundowner is part of the Welcome event series for newly appointed professors at the University of Stuttgart, together with two other events, the Welcome Dinner and the Lunch Meeting. The series has been creating an appreciative welcome culture since 2015 and complements the offers for new professors and employees. At the Sundowner, the circle of newly appointed members of a year group is expanded to include guests from the Rectorate and other professors. The interdisciplinary networking and exchange on current topics at the university contribute to the ongoing development of the university's future and foster a shared identity.

 

University Communications

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