Department of Speculative Transformation (DST)
The Department of Speculative Transformation serves as a cutting-edge research hub dedicated to exploring the possibilities of technology, infrastructure, and society in the future. It stands out in Germany for its distinctive approach, combining expertise from various fields such as engineering, mathematics, natural sciences, humanities, social sciences, construction, environmental sciences, and medicine. By leveraging this interdisciplinary collaboration, the center tackles pressing societal issues that arise at the crossroads of people, technology, society, and the environment.
In addition to addressing current challenges, our department also places great emphasis on fostering speculative intersectional practices. These practices aim to cultivate sustainability, diversity, and social responsibility in the design and development of new technologies. Through our research, we aim to promote forward-thinking and imaginative approaches that aspire to a future where technology and its collaborative development serves as a driver for change that positively impacts the entire planet.
The team was formed in October 2022, comprising individuals from the five schools of the Technische University of Dresden: Engineering Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Mathematics and Natural Sciences, and Medicine.
The current board is composed of Prof. Jens Krzwyinski (Director, Engineering Sciences, Technical Design), Prof. Orit Halpern (Co-Director, Humanities and Social Sciences), Prof. Travis Waller (Civil and Environmental Engineering), Prof. Sven Engesser (Rector's Office), Prof. Nadine Bergner (CIDS) and Prof. Axel Voigt (Mathematics/Natural Sciences).
The Department of Speculative Transformation (DST) is associated with the COSMO Science Forum at the Kulturpalast in Dresden. This partnership allows DST to use the space for a variety of inspiring and diverse events, interesting exhibitions, and interactive workshops.
Contact persons
Research Coordination: Robert Fischer ()
Organizational Coordination: Maria Matthes ()
Interdisciplinary Navigator, Social Sciences: Michaela Büsse ()
Public Relations: Teresa Kamphausen ()
Coordination COSMO: Katharina Porepp ()