Hannes Taubenböck wins the ‘Owl of Wisdom’ award

A different way to experience science: that’s what around 200 guests were able to experience at the 13th Applied Science Slam at Hochschule München. Researchers from HM and two external guests presented their topics on stage in ten-minute slots. The focus was on illustrative examples, creative presentations and a deliberately entertaining format. In the end, it was the audience’s applause alone that decided the outcome.

From satellite data to invisible greenhouse gases
Prof. Dr. Hannes Taubenböck from the University of Würzburg, who also conducts research at the German Aerospace Centre (DLR), kicked off the event. Using satellite data, he demonstrated how remote sensing can shed light on social issues at the intersection of global inequality, urban development and ethical responsibility.

Dennis Gref from the TUM School of Life Sciences then explained how, under certain conditions, fertiliser in the soil can produce N₂O (nitrous oxide): a gas that is not only significant as a greenhouse gas but can also cause long-term problems in the atmosphere. In a quick crash course, he explained why microorganisms in the soil play a key role in this process and what field research actually involves: measuring, mapping, comparing, and measuring again.

“Metaslamming” and renewable energy
HM Professor Christian Holler from the Department of Applied Sciences and Mechatronics then turned the spotlight on the development of renewable energy. With a twinkle in his eye, he highlighted how international forecasts by institutions and expert panels have repeatedly underestimated the development of renewable energy over the decades – particularly with regard to market growth and the rapid fall in the price of renewable energy. HM student Michael Spitschan from the

Department of Computer Science and Mathematics brought the event to a close. In his presentation “Metaslamming”, he analysed past Applied Science Slams and derived “success factors” from them. His findings were pragmatic: if you want to win, it’s best not to go over time. And a doctorate seems to pay off not only scientifically but also with the audience.

Loud applause and an energy experiment
HM professors Georg Eggers and Michael Sachs hosted the evening with humorous commentary and musical accompaniment. The programme was complemented by musician and cabaret artist Verena Richter. During the interval, the guests got involved themselves: outside the lecture theatre, they could pedal Dominik Niederlechner’s Espresso Energy Bike and thus power an espresso machine using muscle power.

Audience crowns slam champion
As usual, the final decision rested with the audience: Hannes Taubenböck received the most applause and was awarded the ‘Owl of Wisdom’, which is produced on the HM C-Lab’s 3D printer. Drinks and a great atmosphere were provided by the Friends of Hochschule München e.V., who regularly support HM events.

Lisa Miethke