Our researchers are unique. Here they introduce themselves and show their very personal side behind the scientific work.
Julia Marie Vehmeyer:
"I completed my bachelor's degree in industrial engineering at Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences. I particularly appreciated the strong practical relevance there. I moved to Paderborn University for my Master's degree. Alongside my studies, I worked as a student trainee in product management at DMG MORI Digital because the practical relevance was important to me.
When I was looking for a sustainability topic for my Master's thesis, I came across the Heinz Nixdorf Institute and the ZirkuPro project. The project was about developing a system for holistic, circular product development. I wrote my Master's thesis on circular value creation systems in this context and then continued to work in the specialist group.
Today I am doing my doctorate in the field of circular economy. In my doctoral dissertation, I am investigating partnerships and collaboration in circular value creation networks. In the CircuPEM project, I am also looking at how value creation in PEM electrolysis can be organised in a more circular way.
What particularly excites me about my research is the economic lever. The circular economy is not a purely moral argument. Even if my personal motivation is intrinsic, it can be shown in a well-founded way that more sustainable solutions can bring economic benefits. It is precisely this connection that makes it possible not only to convince companies, but also to initiate real change.
My day-to-day work consists of research, interviews, teamwork and publications. I particularly enjoy working in workshops with industry partners, because this is where research and practice come together directly. I also really appreciate conferences, as the professional exchange opens up new perspectives and you can explore new places at the same time.
In my free time, my favourite thing to do is go skiing in the mountains, even though this is unfortunately rarely possible from Paderborn. I'm also an avid concert-goer and my favourite music is metalcore, especially Parkway Drive and I Prevail."
