2 March 2026

On 25 February 2026, Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences once again hosted the regional „Jugend forscht“ competition in Northern Thuringia. Numerous young researchers presented their projects in the fields of the world of work, biology, chemistry, physics and technology - and impressively demonstrated the depth of expertise and commitment with which they dedicate themselves to current issues.

At the beginning of the competition day, regional competition director Heike Ludewig and Prof Dr Jörg Wagner, President of Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences, welcomed the participants, jury members, project supervisors and guests.

In her speech, Heike Ludewig emphasised the great commitment of the young people: "Year after year, the competition shows how intensively young people in North Thuringia deal with scientific and technical issues. Prof. Wagner emphasised the importance of promoting young talent for the region and stressed that Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences was happy to host this important competition.

After intensive jury discussions, seven groups of young researchers qualified for the state competition on 1 April 2026 in Jena. The award-winning projects cover a wide range of topics - from microplastic pollution in water and soil to innovative approaches to CO₂ reduction and technical developments for greater road safety.

The works impressed with their scientific rigour, creativity and social relevance.

The morning was dedicated to the jury discussions, during which the participants presented their research projects and answered questions from the expert juries. At the same time, project supervisors were given insights into the university and the Nordhausen Student Research Centre. After the jury meeting at midday, the competition opened its doors to the public. During the press tour and numerous discussions, guests were able to experience the projects up close.

Before the award ceremony, Professor Uta Breuer from Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences and Dr Günther from the Foundation for Technology, Innovation and Research Thuringia (STIFT) addressed the participants.

Both honoured the impressive achievements of the young researchers and emphasised the importance of „Jugend forscht“ for the early promotion of scientific talent. Competitions such as this not only strengthen technical skills, but also self-confidence, presentation skills and a spirit of innovation.

Special thanks go to our long-standing sponsors Schachtbau Nordhausen and WAGO as well as EDEKA Schäfer. With their financial and non-material support, they make a significant contribution to the regional competition being able to take place in this form. Their commitment demonstrates the close connection between the regional economy, the university and the promotion of young talent.

Under the motto „Maximum Perspective“, the potential of young people in the region was clearly demonstrated. By organising the competition once again, Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences sent out a strong signal for scientific enthusiasm and innovative strength in northern Thuringia.

The region is now looking forward to the state competition in Jena, where the qualified teams will represent Northern Thuringia.

The regional winners at a glance:

1. Between school stress and self-discovery,
   Participants: Jolien Kindervater, Lilly Gerlach, Anna Heidelberg,
   Field: Working world
2. An analysis of microplastic pollution in various water bodies in Nordhausen,
   Participants: Maren Ludewig, Carla Höpker,
   Field: Biology
3. Microplastics in the soil - How does it affect plant growth?,
   Participants: Tilda Müller, Liam Luca Weidensee,
   Field: Biology
4. Leavening agents - just hot air?,
   Participant: Martha Ludewig,
   Speciality: Chemistry
5. Green lungs in miniature: algae power against CO2,
   Participant: Annabell Nonnenmacher,
   Speciality: Chemistry
6. High-tech from the pencil case: graphite instead of cables,
   Participant: Farell Nonnenmacher,
   Field: Physics
7. BikeSafe: LED feedback and sensor technology for safe overtaking distances,
   Participants: Nigel Linus Bickel, Tim Kirchner,
   Speciality: Technology