From July 21 to 25, 2025, the EMINENT Summer School took place at the Center for Sensor Systems (ZESS) at the University of Siegen – marking the end of the second semester of the joint degree programme. The event brought together EMINENT students, academic staff from all five partner universities, and their local industry collaborators for an exciting week full of academic insights, international exchange, and professional development.
Representatives of the University of University of Siegen (Germany), Université d’Orléans (France), NOVA University Lisbon (Portugal), VILNIUS TECH (Lithuania), and the Hellenic Mediterranean University (Greece) enriched the programme through (online) expert talks, mentoring, project feedback, and the presentation of potential master’s thesis topics at their respective institutions.
Science Meets Practice
The week kicked off with engaging expert talks, such as Slawomir Czerkas (KLA-Tencor MIE GmbH) on nanometrology in the semiconductor industry and researchers from Université d’Orléans on robotics and AI. NOVA Lisbon highlighted innovations in biosensors and biotechnology startups, while VILNIUS TECH and HMU shared insights into IC design, laser bioprinting, and
micro/nanomachining.
Student Research in the Spotlight
Part of the Summer School programme was dedicated to the presentation of the students’ Professional Design Experience Projects (PEPs). They showcased their interdisciplinary work – from AI hardware design and activity recognition with Smart Watches to metamaterial-based fungi detection in the THz-regime – and received valuable feedback from academic coordinators and peers.
Hands-On Industry and Research Experience
A guided tour of the new INCYTE research building offered an exclusive preview of Siegen’s future high-tech labs. At SUMMIT, a headquarter for high-tech and IT companies in Siegen, students explored the labs of pmdtechnologies ag, gaining real-world perspectives on sensor development. Additionally, two impressive start-ups – ensun and AutomatIQ Synergies GmbH – delivered compelling pitches that reflected the vibrant entrepreneurial spirit of the region.
Empowering Career Development
Beyond technical skills, the Summer School placed strong emphasis on career planning. A targeted workshop by Siegen’s Career Service guided the students through the process of defining individual goals and building effective career tools – laying the foundation for personal and professional growth.
A Perfect Ending in the Sun
The week concluded with a relaxed farewell BBQ on the LeoWiese at Campus AR. Under the summer sun, students, researchers, and organizers shared their impressions and celebrated a week of learning, networking, and inspiration.
A big thank you to all speakers, partners, and coordinators who made this unforgettable week possible. We are already looking forward to next year´s EMINENT Summer School!
