TU Dresden has a new chancellor: Jan Gerken, an economist and science manager, will transfer from the University of Stuttgart to TU Dresden on May 1. On March 14, the State Cabinet approved his appointment by the Saxon State Ministry for Science, Culture and Tourism (SMWK).

Jan Gerken has been entrusted with a high degree of responsibility in administrative leadership positions at institutions of higher education in Germany for many years. Since 2018, he has served as Chancellor of the University of Stuttgart. He previously held this position at the University of Erfurt.

Prof. Ursula M. Staudinger, Rector of TUD, is certain that "with Jan Gerken, we have gained a Chancellor for TU Dresden who brings precisely the right expertise in the areas of digitalization of administration, building activity and innovative vigor that a University of Excellence needs for the 21^st century. His professional expertise and personal poise make him an outstanding fit for us. The entire Extended University Executive Board looks forward to working together with him."

"I eagerly await the new challenge and actively shaping TU Dresden's path into the future," Jan Gerken agrees. "Holding true to the credo of continuing tried-and-tested traditions, exploring opportunities and boldly seeking new paths, as chancellor I would like to contribute my experience in the professional university management at TU Dresden." In view of the permanent pressure to change, it is crucial that large institutions demonstrate their readiness to adapt. "Our goal is to help shape upcoming innovations," explains the future chancellor. "I want to inspire and encourage people at TU Dresden to join us on this mission."

Jan Gerken, born in Aachen in 1966, studied economics at Leibniz Universität Hannover specializing in information systems, finance and statistics. After graduating, he was initially responsible for strategic university planning and controlling at Leibnitz Universität Hannover. He then transferred to Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf, where he was Head of the Management division and the Development Planning department. From 2012, he served as Permanent Deputy Chancellor, responsible for the continued development of the central university administration and finances, before accepting a position at the University of Erfurt.   

Dr. Undine Krätzig will remain entrusted with the management of affairs until the new Chancellor takes office. Rector Prof. Ursula Staudinger expresses her deepest gratitude to Undine Krätzig for her service as Acting Chancellor, stating, "TUD is once again deeply indebted to our colleague Dr. Krätzig. With her years of experience, including having previously served as Acting Chancellor in earlier years, she brought the perfect expertise to keep the TUD administration safely on track since July 2022."

In July 2022, the previous Chancellor Dr. Andreas Handschuh accepted a position as State Secretary at the Saxon State Ministry for Science, Culture and Tourism (SMWK). The Rector then convened an Appointment Committee to fill the position.

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