As summer draws to a close, the Center for Micro- and Nanotechnologies at Ilmenau University of Technology can look back on this year's "Summer School Green Micro- and Nanotechnologies". From August 25 to 30, 2024, we welcomed experts, students and scientists from all over the world to Ilmenau. An inspiring week full of informative lectures, exciting discussions and international collaboration. In addition to the glorious weather, the lively exchange of knowledge and new insights ensured that the participants were able to learn more about a wide range of micro and nanotechnology topics and make valuable contacts. The event kicked off with an introduction to the "Fundamentals of Micro- and Nanotechnologies" by Prof. Peter Schaaf, Director of the ZMN and Prof. Stefan Sinzinger, Vice President for Research and Young Scientists. This was followed by practical workshops focusing on topics such as recycling and sustainable electronics, with Prof. Jens Müller guiding the participants through the entire life cycle of electronic products, from production to recycling ("cradle to the gate"). A guided tour of x-FAB in Erfurt enabled the participants to experience modern technologies and manufacturing processes at first hand while they developed sustainable solutions in project groups. This work was presented on Friday with great success. The projects were accompanied by lectures on topics such as "Green Materials" and "Advanced Materials for Micro- and Nanotechnologies", given by PD Dr. Dong Wang and Prof. Peter Schaaf. A theoretical insight into the world of microsystems and green micro- and nanotechnologies was provided by Dr. Christoph Weigel (Department of Microsystems Technology). A special highlight was the international lecture block of our four guest speakers, who presented their research and promoted international exchange:
The program was rounded off by highlights such as the Thuringian BBQ evening and the conference dinner at the Bel Canto, which offered the opportunity to deepen contacts and establish collaborations.
Director Prof. Peter Schaaf and his deputy Prof. Erich Runge were particularly pleased that the Summer School confirmed TU Ilmenau's good integration into European networks such as EuroNanoLab and the Condensed Matter Division (CMD) of the European Physical Society . "Well-prepared, highly motivated participants came from these networks. In addition, we were able to attract excellent guest speakers who were convinced of the outstanding opportunities offered by the ZMN during their stay at our university. We look forward to new joint research projects and further collaboration," says Prof. Peter Schaaf.
The Summer School 2024 was a complete success, to which the financial support of the Carl Zeiss Foundation contributed significantly. We would like to thank everyone involved and are already looking forward to continuing this valuable collaboration next year!
