19 February 2025

On 18 February 2025, the regional "Jugend forscht" competition for northern Thuringia took place once again at Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences. Young talents from the region presented their research projects and impressively demonstrated how exciting and diverse science and technology can be.

Young researchers present their exciting projects at the regional competition "Jugend forscht" Nordthüringen at Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences. (Photos: Tina Bergknapp)

With a total of 16 projects in the "Jugend forscht" and "Junior" categories, this year's competition was very well attended. The young scientists pursued current research questions with a great deal of curiosity and creativity - from sustainable agriculture and smart technologies to environmental research.

Prof. Dr Jörg Wagner, President of Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences, welcomed the participants, supervisors and guests to the award ceremony. He emphasised the importance of the competition: "Jugend forscht is a great forum for young people who want to develop their ideas and scientific talent. Nordhausen University of Applied Sciences is very happy to support this competition because we see the researchers of tomorrow here - people who are shaping the future with their knowledge and commitment."

Prof Dr Wagner was joined at the event by Dr Günther from the Thuringia Foundation for Technology, Innovation and Research (STIFT) and Dr Purgahn, head of the Thuringia "Jugend forscht" state competition. Dr Günther congratulated the participants on their successful research work and encouraged them to continue developing their projects.

The event was also made possible by the friendly support of regional companies:

• Schachtbau Nordhausen financed a special prize and lunch in the canteen for all participants.
• WAGO Sondershausen provided laptop rucksacks for all the young researchers.
• REWE Fiebig provided pastries for a little refreshment in between.

"Without the commitment of these partners, it would hardly be possible to hold this competition," emphasised Heike Ludewig, Regional Competition Director. "The support shows that promoting science is a high priority in the region."

Winners of the regional "Jugend forscht" competition in Northern Thuringia

Laura Zöller and Klara Marie Heise from Kyffhäusergymnasium Bad Frankenhausen won the "Jugend forscht" category with their project "Sustainable viticulture in central Germany - realistic or a dream?". They investigated whether and under what conditions viticulture in central Germany can have a future as a sustainable alternative to traditional agriculture.

Annabell Nonnenmacher was honoured in the "Junior" category for her innovative research project "Sustainable cleanliness: Aesculin as an ecological whitener for detergents". Her work sheds light on the potential of plant-based active ingredients as an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional chemical additives in detergents.

With their first places, they have secured a ticket for the 34th Thuringia "Jugend forscht" state competition and will represent the North Thuringia region at state level.