Bayreuth alumnus becomes university president
Bayreuth alumnus Prof. Dr. Stefan Wehner will head the University of Koblenz, which will become independent on Jan. 1, 2023. In UBTaktuell, he looks back on his time at the University of Bayreuth.
Prof. Wehner, why did you decide to study physics in Bayreuth?
Wehner: The decision for the University of Bayreuth was set. On the one hand, I didn't want to leave Bayreuth because of my involvement in the Boy Scouts, and on the other hand, I wouldn't have been able to afford such carefree studies outside my hometown. For a long time I was undecided whether I should study law, chemistry or physics, but then I decided on physics because of the good compatibility of my studies with my voluntary work and I have not regretted it.
When you think back to your student days, what three buzzwords come to mind?
challenging problems - exciting research - good lecturers
You were born in Bayreuth. Do you still visit your hometown from time to time?
Yes, since my parents and my sister with her family live in Bayreuth, I no longer come to Bayreuth often, but at least irregularly. I also had scientific cooperations with Helmut Brand, Sander von Smaalen, Stefan Geimer and Andreas Schönleber for many years, which finally came to an end when I became vice president.
Who would you like to swap places with for a day?
With the Minister of Finance - in the hope of subsequently better equipped universities in the state in general and the universities of Koblenz in particular.
What piece of advice would you like to give students - whether at the University of Bayreuth or at your university?
Study what interests you, then the necessary commitment in your studies will be easier, but also look at the job market later, so that the motivation also remains a whole life.