„Having got to hear of IMMS in one of Professor Sommer’s lectures, I did an internship there in 2010, working on industrial electronics and measurement technology. Then I wrote my BSc dissertation at Ilmenau University of Technology in Professor Sommer’s department, that of electronic circuits and systems, on computeraided optimisation of an operational amplifier. The subject of my dissertation had arisen in the SyEnA joint project (on synthesis-driven design of analogue circuits), in which IMMS was one of the partners. Afterwards I worked as a student research assistant at the TU and extended my knowledge on the subject.

Professor Sommer supervised my dissertation for the MSc, produced at Melexis, which I was successful in defending, and now I have been a researcher at IMMS since May 2012. My work is on the ‘GreenSense’ project. Pure research in this project is carried out with a view to future application. It therefore provides me with much opportunity for self-development, both professionally and methodologically. I am not limited to applying my knowledge of analogue circuitry and to making a contribution to the design of complex microchips. I have been given the opportunity to study for a PhD on the subject of ‘low-power electronics for self-powered smart sensor systems’ which will take the issues of the project as its basis.

The working environment at IMMS really motivates me to work at my creative optimum. The flexible hours have helped me to make the best use of the times when I can be at my most productive. Researching with an international team is exciting and stimulating, while the discussions with colleagues from such a wide variety of subject areas lead to solutions which are innovative and, at the same time, sound. IMMS, for me, is not only work; I have found real friends among my colleagues and feel that joining the Institute has been more than positive for me, deeply enriching both my private and my professional life.”