Apr 13, 2026
Handing over the baton in Urban Water Management: Ceremonial colloquium for Prof. Peter Krebs and welcoming Prof. Korbinian Kätzl
Dresden, 27 March 2026 - The Department of Hydro Sciences at TU Dresden honored the many years of service of Prof. Dr. Peter Krebs with a festive colloquium in the Dülfer Hall of the Alte Mensa. Around 160 guests, including close colleagues, long-time companions, former and current doctoral students, students and friends, came together to pay tribute to his impressive scientific career and personal commitment.
From Switzerland to Dresden: an academic home
What began over 28 years ago with the appointment of the Swiss scientist to the Chair of Urban Water Management at TU Dresden developed into a formative era for the entire Department. Peter Krebs not only enriched the university with his academic excellence, but also made TU Dresden his academic home for almost three decades.
A farewell full of recognition and retrospection
The afternoon's program offered a multifaceted journey through the Krebs era at the Institute of Urban and Industrial Water Management. In various presentations and personal greetings, not only the professional milestones in urban water management were highlighted, but above all his role as a mentor and inspiring teacher. The mixture of scientific discourse and heartfelt anecdotes gave the event a very special atmosphere.
Diplomacy and international commitment
In the ceremonial speeches, it became clear that his influence extended far beyond the field of urban water management. Particularly in his roles as department spokesperson and as Dean of the Faculty, Prof. Krebs demonstrated exceptional stature. With great diplomatic skill, he drove strategic developments forward - for example through his significant support for TU Dresden's CIPSEM or his contributions to the development of the United Nations University (UNU-FLORES).
Handing over the baton: a new chapter for the chair
The colloquium also marked a significant transition: a new chapter was opened with the warm welcome of Prof. Korbinian Kätzl to the Chair of Urban Water Management. His appointment provides important impetus for the future direction of the subject area at TU Dresden. The event thus combined the ceremonial recognition of his many years of service in research and teaching with an optimistic outlook for future developments.
Joint conclusion
After the official part of the colloquium, there was an opportunity for personal exchange at a reception. In lively discussions, old memories were refreshed and new plans were made. The impressive attendance of 160 people underlines the enormous esteem in which Prof. Krebs is held far beyond the university's borders.
The Department of Hydro Sciences would like to thank Prof. Peter Krebs from the bottom of its heart for his work, his ideas and his tireless commitment. We wish him all the best for the new phase of his life!
At the same time, we extend a warm welcome to Prof. Korbinian Kätzl and look forward to continuing the successful work at the Chair together and setting new accents.