Biomagnetic Sensing

The transition from electric to magnetic measurements has several advantages in a variety of applications. If, e.g., electroencephalo- or electrocardiographic analysis are supported by their magnetic counterparts, the corresponding analyses might deliver much better results. However, it's not trivial to establish the corresponding magnetic systems. Further details can be found here.

CRC 1261

The general objectives of the Collaborative Research Centre 1261 "Magnetoelectric Sensors: From Composite Materials to Biomagnetic Diagnostics" are the research and development of different magnetoelectric sensor approaches with a special focus on high sensitivity at biomagnetic frequencies and their evaluation and utilization in medically or biologically relevant questions. Further details can be found here.

Outreach

We support interactive and engaging science communication and education on biomagnetic sensing. Together with CRC 1261 researchers, we develops and offer a wide range of outreach activities, like public lectures, interactive exhibitions, lab visits, visits to schools, student project days and many more. Further details can be found here.

Our Autumn Retreat in Leck

Only being a PhD student as of recent, this was my first CRC retreat, and I couldn’t have felt more welcomed by everyone. Over the course of two days, I had the opportunity to dive deep into the interdisciplinary work of the CRC and share insights from my own project ideas. As a new member, working in Scientific Outreach, it was inspiring to see how everyone’s research not only pushes the boundaries of biomagnetic sensing but also offers exciting possibilities for public engagement and educational outreach.

Day 1: September 19th, 2024

Welcome and Introduction

The day began with a warm welcome and introductions of new members, helping me immediately feel like part of the team. It was exciting to meet the brilliant minds and genuine people behind the CRC’s various projects.
Talk by Mark Ellrichmann

Prof. Mark Ellrichmann gave an insightful talk about the challenges in gastrointestinal surgeries and how our work in the CRC, especially within projects A8 and B12, could help overcome complications. His emphasis on the role of sensors to detect issues early was eye-opening and directly aligned with how we can communicate the impact of these technologies in outreach activities as their medical importance and impact make them promising for society.
Poster Sessions

The poster sessions were a vibrant and dynamic part of the retreat, showcasing the cutting-edge research across multiple CRC projects. It was an excellent opportunity for me to see the breadth of work happening and how it could intersect with our outreach efforts.
- Session I featured posters from projects A1, A2, A4, B1, B2, and Z1. These projects spanned from magnetoelectric sensors and composite materials to noise performance in biomagnetic sensors. I found the detailed explanations from colleagues like Moritz (B2) incredibly helpful in understanding how these technologies work at the fundamental level, which is crucial when we think about communicating this complexity to broader audiences. Z1 focused on sensor fabrication, providing a more hands-on look into the production process.
- Session II included posters from A6, A7, A8, B9, B10, and Z2. These projects tackled microstructures, electrically modulated sensors, and the design and modeling of sensor systems. I was particularly impressed by the work on B9, which aims to detect movement through biomagnetic fields, and B10’s applications in cardiology, showing how our sensors could be used in real-world medical diagnoses.
Overall, the poster sessions were not only informative but a real chance to engage with my colleagues' work, exchange ideas, and think about new ways to integrate their scientific achievements into our outreach initiatives. Seeing the breadth of work being done was both humbling and inspiring, and it offered a wealth of content and contexts that we can share with younger audiences to ignite their interest in STEM fields and STEM careers.
Science Visualization Workshop and Talk

A special highlight for me was the science visualization workshop by Susanne and Carolin. For someone involved in outreach, learning new ways to present complex ideas in an engaging, easy-to-understand format is essential, and this session provided just that. Seeing the SciComLab’s great work was both interesting and impressive.
Socializing and Activities

In between the content-heavy schedule, we also had time for some fun and socializing. The sports activities with Swantje were a great way to stretch from sitting most of the day. The socializing time after dinner in the evening gave us a chance to relax and chat in a more informal setting, playing some card games before nighttime. Everyone was incredibly welcoming, and I felt like I was part of the CRC from day one.

Day 2: September 20th, 2024

PI and IRTG Meetings

The morning kicked off with meetings for the PIs and IRTG members, which focused on solidifying cooperation agreements and ensuring smooth collaboration across projects. As a PhD student, I only took part in the IRTG meeting and, being motivated by my new work environment, I volunteered both as an IRTG board member and to organize next year’s summer school.
Poster Session III

During Poster Session III, I presented the SOP poster on career orientation for young people in STEM, sharing how the outreach program can bridge the gap between scientific research and young learners. I truly enjoyed engaging with everyone during this session, and the feedback and ideas I received were incredibly insightful. Many colleagues showed a genuine interest in how we can use our research to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers.

Projects like A9 and A10 (focused on SAW sensors and noise reduction) and B12 and B13 (gastrointestinal surgery sensors and 3D mapping) were part of this session, and it was exciting to see how these innovative technologies could be introduced to students, sparking curiosity and enthusiasm for science.
Reflections

This retreat was not only an invaluable introduction to the CRC’s ongoing work but also a testament to how welcoming and collaborative the environment is. I left Leck feeling inspired and confident that my role in outreach can play a meaningful part in connecting our cutting-edge research with the broader society, especially in fostering the next generation of STEM professionals.