Hans-Werner Schmidt appointed Emeritus of Honour at the University of Bayreuth

Hans-Werner Schmidt was appointed to the Chair of Macromolecular Chemistry I at the University of Bayreuth in 1993. Until his retirement in 2023, he led the chair with great dedication and remains closely connected to it and to the university. Beyond his excellent teaching and research, Professor Schmidt has had a lasting impact on the research landscape at Bayreuth.

“Through his exceptional scientific achievements, strategic foresight, and deep commitment to the University of Bayreuth, Hans-Werner Schmidt has set standards. His influence extends far beyond our university. His appointment as Emeritus of Honour is a sign of our deep respect and gratitude for his life's work,” said University President Professor Dr Stefan Leible.

From 1998 to 2010, Professor Schmidt served as spokesperson for the Collaborative Research Centre 481 “Complex Macromolecular and Hybrid Systems in Internal and External Fields,” playing a key role in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in polymer research across faculties. In 2016, he founded the Bavarian Polymer Institute (BPI), which he has directed ever since. The BPI has become a lasting institutional platform that strengthens polymer research in Northern Bavaria. It has given rise to several KeyLabs at the universities of Bayreuth, Erlangen, and Würzburg – vital infrastructures for coordinated research programmes and centres of intensive scientific collaboration.

A particular milestone is the research facility Polymer Nanostructures, initiated by Professor Schmidt, which serves as a central element of Bayreuth’s polymer research. “The planning, construction, and move into this building – the first interdisciplinary laboratory centre for polymer research – stands out in my memory as one of the greatest undertakings,” said Professor Schmidt.

Academically, Schmidt reflects on the development of the university’s key research area in polymer and colloid science: “That was a formative time – for me personally, for polymer research, and for the university. It was both exciting and pioneering to build and shape this profile area together with my colleagues.”

Professor Schmidt has also set benchmarks in supporting young researchers. As spokesperson for the elite degree programme Macromolecular Science within the Elite Network of Bavaria since 2004, he created attractive opportunities for highly talented students and doctoral researchers. His role as Vice President for Research gave him broad insights across faculties, which culminated in the founding and leadership (2009–2023) of the University of Bayreuth Graduate School – an institution supporting all doctoral candidates and reflecting his strong commitment to structured doctoral training and early-career researchers. “Interdisciplinary collaboration has always brought me great joy,” said Schmidt. “It’s something very special to have the chance to meet people from all disciplines, to learn about their fields and scientific approaches.”

Professor Schmidt has been active not only in numerous research collaborations but also in academic governance and science policy. He served as Vice President for Teaching and Students (1997–1998), and later for Research and Early Career Researchers (2009–2015), where he played a key role in shaping the university’s strategic research development. His influence has extended beyond the university as well, contributing to the advancement of the scientific system through national and international committees.

With his scientific foresight, strategic thinking, and tireless commitment, Professor Dr Hans-Werner Schmidt has left a lasting mark on both the University of Bayreuth and the field of macromolecular chemistry. His appointment as Emeritus of Honour recognises his exceptional contributions – as a researcher, teacher, leader, and mentor.