Change in the scientific leadership of CIPSEM

Starting on April 1, 2025, the scientific leadership of the Centre for International Postgraduate Studies of Environmental Management (CIPSEM) at TUD Dresden University of Technology (TUD) will transition from Prof. Dr. Uta Berger to Prof. Dr. Karsten Kalbitz. Uta Berger has held this position since 2013 and has significantly contributed to the program's development during her tenure. The CIPSEM team extends its heartfelt thanks for her many years of dedication and warmly welcomes Karsten Kalbitz in his new role.

A decade of pioneering scientific leadership

Prof. Dr. Uta Berger, Professor of Forest Biometrics and System Analysis, has focused her research on the functioning of ecological systems and biodiversity under changing environmental conditions. Under her leadership, CIPSEM was recognized as an international beacon of TUD and further established as a leading institution for environmental education.

Among Prof. Dr. Berger’s most notable achievements was the structural and academic transformation of CIPSEM in 2014, following its return to TUD after a short period at Dresden International University (2012–2013). This transition coincided with an almost complete renewal of the CIPSEM team, making it a particularly complex phase. Her efforts ensured a successful realignment of the course program while strengthening CIPSEM’s institutional ties to both TUD and the Faculty of Environmental Sciences. In recognition of her exceptional contributions, she was awarded the Golden Badge of Honor from TUD in 2022.

© Christin Nitsche / CIPSEM

Dr. Anna Görner, Managing Director of CIPSEM, emphasizes:
"In challenging times, Prof. Dr. Uta Berger has always been a reliable support for CIPSEM. During my parental leave, we faced a dual challenge: the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated a rapid shift to online courses, while our team was also undergoing a significant transition, with several members leaving and new ones arriving. In this context, Prof. Dr. Uta Berger's personal commitment and tireless dedication were instrumental in ensuring CIPSEM's success, demonstrating her exceptional professional and human qualities."

New perspectives with Prof. Dr. Karsten Kalbitz

© K. Lassig

Prof. Dr. Karsten Kalbitz, Professor of Soil Resources and Land Use at the Faculty of Environmental Sciences, will succeed Uta Berger. As a "Highly Cited Researcher," he is one of the most influential scientists in his field. Since 2014, he has been heading the Chair of Soil Resources and Land Use at TUD. He has been conducting research, in particular, on the dynamics of organic substances in soils and waters, as well as their impact on biogeochemical processes in a changing environment.

With his exceptional expertise, Karsten Kalbitz brings a fresh perspective to the scientific leadership of CIPSEM. He will contribute to the program's ongoing development not only as a highly respected member of the Faculty of Environmental Sciences but also as an internationally recognized researcher. Together with Uta Berger and the CIPSEM team, he has already worked on concepts to advance the UNEP/UNESCO/BMUV training courses to ensure their international relevance and effectiveness in the long term.
 

Forward-looking development

© CIPSEM

A key initiative for the coming years is further developing the UNEP/UNESCO/BMUV post-graduate training courses (2025-2027). The objective is to align the programs with the current global environmental and sustainability challenges. This will include updating the course module descriptions, refining and enhancing innovative teaching methods and strengthening the international alumni network.

The 50th anniversary of the program in 2027 presents a special opportunity to reflect on past successes and develop a vision for the future. CIPSEM will continue to serve as a central platform for international knowledge exchange and the qualification of environmental professionals from the Global South.

CIPSEM sincerely thanks Uta Berger for her dedication and looks forward to collaborating with Karsten Kalbitz to continue the successful work and introduce new ideas.