Philip Girschik is in his fifth semester studying medical technology at Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg. A school-leaver’s work placement at the STIMULATE Research Campus set him on this path. Today, alongside his studies, the 20-year-old is involved in the Student Initiative for Medical Technology (STIMT) and works as a student assistant in the IT department at the research campus.

On 3 October, we will once again be celebrating German Unity Day. In this interview, Prof. Roth explains why there is no such thing as ‘the East’, why even East Germans themselves use these stereotypes, and how we can communicate better with one another in future.

Silke Springer looks after the health of staff at the university. Editor Lisa Baaske visited her in her office and spoke to her about her job, as well as the stories – big and small – behind the items in her office.