

"Why I do Research..."
With fresh ideas and tireless research spirit, early career researchers dedicate themselves to tackling the key challenges — whether through fundamental research or practical solutions. At the beginning of their academic careers, they bring new perspectives and creative impulses to their fields, leaving a lasting impact on science.
At the University of Duisburg-Essen, they find an inspiring environment that emphasises teamwork, initiative, and interdisciplinary exchange.
In our series "Why I Do Research", young researchers share what motivates them to head to the lab each day, offer valuable advice for the next generation of scientists, and show how they make science tangible and exciting for the public.

Why I do Research: Shaista Khaliq At the Intersection of Instrumental Chemistry and Biology
Shaista Khaliq studies how animals and plants are interconnected within ecosystems. She employs isotope analysis, a method in instrumental analytical chemistry, to investigate where organisms obtain their nutrients and how parasites influence their hosts.

Why I Do Research: Julian EnßFascination Under Water
Even as a child, Julian Enß marveled at the diversity of creatures in streams - today he conducts research in aquatic ecology, is a member of the Center for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU) and also introduces non-scientists to aquatic species.

Why I do research: Nils LeimkühlerWhen the bone marrow scars
Dr. Nils Leimkühler is working on a rare bone marrow disease, myelofibrosis. The 35-year-old is a researcher and assistant physician at the Clinic for Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation. In this interview, he talks about his work.

Why I do research: Stephanie AntonsUnderstanding addictive behaviour

Why I do research: Jan BalzerA new approach to terahertz

Why I do research: Nadia SamakNadia Samak fights for clean ground water

Why I do research: Magdalena Wischnewski Can I trust you, AI?

Why I do research: Vineetha VinayakumarMaking electrodes robust for H2 production

Why I do research: Filiz ÖzkanUnderstanding the Immune System

Why I do research: Abbas El MoussawiTailoring new materials
