PhD Representatives

In June, a PhD candidate representation was elected for the first time for each faculty at the University of Potsdam (UP)! In October 2026, this will replace the previous PoGS PhD representatives.

The representative body will then represent all PhD candidates at the UP, with one representative and one substitute member per faculty. For the first time, the PhD candidate representation will have the right to be consulted and to make proposals on all matters concerning PhD candidates in the organs and committees of the UP.

Pursuing a doctorate is an intense phase: you research, teach, write, organize – and often there is little room to make your own interests visible. That is precisely why a strong PhD representative body is needed at the University of Potsdam. Representatives that know your concerns, contribute your perspectives, and represent your interests where decisions are made.

Why should you get involved?

• Because good PhD conditions don't just happen by chance. They happen when people work for them.
• Because your voice matters. The PhD representatives bring your issues to the attention of key committees.
• Because diversity is crucial. Every doctorate is different—and this diversity should be reflected in the representation.
• Because commitment makes a difference. Whether it's supervision, funding, working conditions, or continuing education: those who have a say can change the framework conditions.

Together, we can achieve more.

The statutes may seem formal, but what they enable is vibrant: co-determination, visibility, diversity, and real change. Whether you run for office or vote, you are helping to ensure that the interests of all PhD candidates are heard and taken seriously in order to make the doctorate phase at the University of Potsdam a little better.
 

The full list of the PhD representatives for each faculty at the University of Potsdam can be found below. The newly elected representatives will take office on October 01, 2026.

Law Faculty: Melcher Max Abramowski, substitute member: Tilman Lorenz Gohlke

Faculty of Arts and Humanities: Sören Barkey, substitute member: Jack Verschoyle

Faculty of Human Sciences and the Faculty of Health Sciences: Carolin Dreinemann, substitute member: Katharina Küper

Faculty of Economics and Social Sciences: Niklas Peters, substitute member: Anna Celine Maerz 

Faculty of Science: Josie König, substitute member: Surendra Giri

Faculty of Digital Engineering: Willy Scheibel; substitute member: Marcel Garus