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Fuel Cell Team at ivb
TU Braunschweig
Niedersächsisches Forschungszentrum Fahrzeugtechnik (NFF)
The Fuel Cell Team at the ivb of TU Braunschweig conducts research on hydrogen and fuel cell systems to support a sustainable energy and mobility transition. Led by Jun.-Prof. Dr. Heere, this young and international team of seven PhD candidates works on interdisciplinary projects at the Niedersächsischen Forschungszentrum Fahrzeugtechnik (NFF). Its network includes academic institutes, research centers, and industry partners. A flat hierarchy, an open communication and feedback culture, and targeted coaching formats foster both high-quality research and personal development.
Strengths of the research environment
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Taking on responsibility early on
PhD students lead sub-projects, supervise undergraduates, give presentations at international conferences and play an active role in academic events. -
Combining research and leadership
In addition to subject-specific expertise, specific skills in communication, project management and leadership are developed. -
Further developing structures
Internal processes are reviewed and improved collaboratively – for example, through new formats such as "SilentBoxes" for focused and creative work. -
Close support and an open feedback culture
Regular team meetings and individual development discussions create transparency, provide guidance and allow space to learn from mistakes. -
Internationally networked and team-oriented
Team seminars, visiting scholars, collaborations and conference organisation strengthen networking, visibility and cohesion.
Examples
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20-minute exploration
This format is based on a mindfulness exercise and is used for complex topics. One person speaks for ten minutes whilst the other listens actively. The roles are then swapped. The session concludes with a brief joint debrief, which fosters a strong sense of togetherness. The focus is on genuine understanding rather than immediate judgement. The format promotes presence, empathy and the ability to adopt different perspectives, and has established itself as an effective tool for clarifying both professional and personal issues. -
Holistic development in the leadership seminar
The annual seminar combines academic reflection with personal development on four levels: physical, mental, emotional and intuitive. In addition to classic elements such as communication and conflict management, the seminar also addresses self-awareness, decision-making under uncertainty and intuitive judgement.
Contact persons
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Inès Edima Atangana Meyanga, research assistant, ivb, ines-edima.atangana-meyanga@tu-braunschweig.de
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Nadine Mohamed, research assistant, ivb, nadine.mohamed@tu-braunschweig.de
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Jun.-Prof. Dr. Michael Heere, research group leader at the Fuel Cell Team at the ivb, m.heere@tu-braunschweig.de
Address
TU Braunschweig
Institute of Internal Combustion Engines and Fuel Cells
Hermann-Blenk-Straße 42
38108 Braunschweig