STATE CONTEST
Recognition for young researchers
The state contest “Jugend forscht – Schüler experimentieren” inspired young and old alike. As was the case last year, the PS.Halle at Einbeck’s PS.SPEICHER hosted the science and innovation competition.
You could see the enthusiasm written on his face. “I’m simply overwhelmed by the wealth of ideas here, by the energy that I see among you,” enthused Thomas Ehrhardt, Head of Global Research and Services, in the event hall at the PS.SPEICHER in Einbeck. In mid-April, he was the guest speaker at the ceremony for the state contest “Jugend forscht - Schüler experimentieren” (“Youngsters Research – School Students Experiment”), which KWS hosted as sponsor for the second time together with the PS.SPEICHER Foundation. He praised the fact that so many topical issues had been taken up and tackled scientifically.
Thomas Ehrhardt gave the 9- to 15-year-old students two valuable tips: “Stay inquisitive, because that’s the force that will take you forward. And: Put your heads together. Research is not only better in a team, it’s also more enjoyable.” He added that all important new innovations are always a team effort, and KWS was no exception in that respect.
The 71 girls and boys, who had come with their teachers and parents from all over Lower Saxony, listened spellbound to the words of the Head of Research. They were taken back in time by presenters Stephan Krings, Head of Global Marketing and Communications, and Lothar Meyer-Mertel, Managing Director of the PS.SPEICHER, and learned how Albert Einstein accidentally discovered his zeal for research as a child. A little later, it was revealed which of the finalists had won the contest and would take home one of the great prizes. All received a certificate and many words of commendation.
Shoe soles from plants
This tribute went to the young scientists who had previously presented their 43 projects at stands with display boards and illustrative objects. They included, for example, a hydroponic lettuce machine, a remote controlled ball, and shoe soles made from renewable plants. It was especially exciting for the young researchers when the jury came to their stands. Its members, including Elke Hilscher, Group Lead Chemical Analytics, and Enrico B. Scheuermann, Head of Innovation Field Processes, not only had lots of questions, but also great fun. “It’s just fantastic,” was how Elke Hilscher summed up the event. |
Information
Visiting KWS
Research is a core element at KWS and the company aims to encourage young talents specifically in this field. For example, KWS also invited the young researchers to the company’s campus during their stay in Einbeck. It put on an exciting program, offering insights into phytopathology, chemical analysis, the PhenoFactory at the LEO greenhouse, the various training opportunities, and the activities of the workshop, from where the participants were allowed to take home a metal “Jugend forscht” logo as a souvenir. |
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