In 2025, five early-career researchers began their doctoral projects at HTW Dresden with the support of the ESF Plus doctoral scholarship. In this interview, scholarship recipient Xuemin Yang, supervised by Prof. Dr. rer. nat. Michael Katzberg (Faculty of Agriculture, Environment and Chemistry), shares insights into her academic journey and career path.

Would you please tell me something about yourself and your doctoral project.   

My name is Xuemin Yang, I’m from Shanghai, China. Now I’m a first year PhD student working with Professor Katzberg. I got my Master’s degree in 2013 and I have worked for over 10 years. 

How did you come up with the idea of pursuing a doctorate and what motivated you? 

I have worked for 10 years and I always find myself busy and working late into the night leaving little time for reflection. Over time I realized that I need to deepen my knowledge and to improve myself further. Additionally, during a discussion with my friend about the green issue of electronic waste, I learned about the relevant research being conducted at HTW Dresden. I was drawn to the institution because of it‘s focus on application oriented, interdisciplinary research, its strong networks of companies and research institutions. So, I was thrilled to have opportunity to pursue my PhD at HTW in cooperation with the TU Dresden. 

Which resources and networks help you in your research?

My research is supported by a variety of resources and networks. First, HTW Dresden provides access to extensive databases as well as a rich library collection and it frequently organizes lectures and seminars offering the possibility to interact with experts and peers in my field. Also, the collaborative program between HTW Dresden and TU Dresden provides a broader network. My supervisor offers me professional advice. My prior work experience also helps me solve problems.

How does a typical day during your research look like?

A typical day balances my responsibilities as a researcher and a mother, because I have a four years old son. As a mother I dedicate time daily for caring for my child, including taking him to and from kindergarden and communicating with him, playing with him and helping him learning. As a researcher, I spend time conducting my experiments and reviewing literature at the University. Also, I need to discuss my research with my supervisor. At the end of the day, I needed to summarize the problems that I encountered and explore potential solutions.

What would you have liked to know earlier or before starting the PhD?

Before starting I had a few concerns. HTW Dresden is a prestigious University. I've been worried about potential gaps in understanding due to my limited German proficiency and culture differences. Another concern was balancing my responsibility as a mother effectively. Most importantly, I was anxious about tackling my research and the complexity of my research, because it's a global issue.

Do you already know what you plan to do afterwards?

I don't have a concrete plan yet. I wish to use my knowledge to for sustainable development. After my four-year PhD, my family and I want to stay here, as my child enjoys the environment and the food here. Dresden is a quiet place with many friendly people and advanced research capabilities. I hope to contribute to Sachsen and I'm very grateful to ESF for this PhD opportunity.

About the ESF PLUS doctoral programme

The EU and the Free State of Saxony use the ESF Plus programme to fund projects in areas such as doctoral studies. The aim of the ESF doctoral scholarships is to harness the individual educational potential of academic professionals — especially women — by enhancing their skills in support of a stable, green, sustainable, and digital economy in the Free State of Saxony.
Eligible projects include state innovation doctorates, industrial doctorates, projects aimed at reconciling family life and academic careers, as well as combinations of industrial doctorates with family-career reconciliation. These projects may last up to four years.
Each basic scholarship is funded with €1,700.00 per month.