DO YOU HAVE A ROLE MODEL OR LIFE MOTTO?

I have no particular role model. However, I always try to remain open to new people and their ideas to be inspired again and again.

What was your most powerful learning moment?

I once had organized a scientific workshop, to which I invited colleagues from all around the world. In our presentations we asked eachother so many questions that none of us were within the specified time to fully present his research project. Besides a very intense and instructive experience, the friendships that emerged have lasted ever since.

WHAT CAN YOU NOT LAUGH ABOUT?

I cannot laugh when someone makes fun of the weak.

What was the last beautiful thing you bought?

I invited my wife to a great weekend in a wonderful hotel.

What is that one book that will stay with you forever?

I find it fundamentally difficult to give books away, which is why I have some books in several editions on my book shelf. For one example, I would never give away the book “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho.

WHEN DO YOU FEEL ALIVE?

I feel most alive whenever I get into a “flow” state, completely focused on the task I am performing. That may be the case, for example, in teaching or when giving speeches. Earlier in life, I often felt alive when I was on stage and performing music.

WHAT DO YOU BELIEVE IN?

I believe in staying open to signs and grabbing opportunities with both hands.

What is your peaceful place?

My garden.

What was your last good deed?

I donated blood. 

What was your last dream abaout?

Unfortunately, I don’t remember very much from my dreams.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC?

Most of all I like melancholy guitar music. My favorite bands are The Church and Swervedriver.

BEGINNING OR FINISHING? WHICH IS HARDER?

I find it harder to stop.