Marian Moldenhauer studied technical mathematics at the Technical University of Berlin and earned his doctorate in mathematics at the Free University of Berlin in 2021. Currently, he works as a scientific advisor for the project sponsor VDI/VDE-IT.

Did you get a doctorate? Why? Why not?

Yes, I earned my doctorate. After studying, I wanted to apply the knowledge I had gained directly. Additionally, during my doctoral studies, I could determine for myself whether I wanted to pursue this path as a postdoc after graduation, go to school, or work as a lecturer, or do something else in the business world.

If so, in retrospect, did it make sense for you to pursue a doctorate?

For me personally, it made sense to get a doctorate because I learned how to concentrate on specialized topics, develop new methods and applications, test them, and find and correct errors. This goes hand in hand with the soft skills of perseverance and the quick overview of technical topics for me.

What knowledge or skills did you acquire in your studies that you didn't think you'd ever need?

I think it's good that you question things critically despite your own or others' knowledge. On the one hand, one can strengthen one's own position in this way, on the other hand it is important to recognize that one did not necessarily always know or considered all the facts, facts, and truths. This, in turn, leads to a certain down-to-earth quality that allows one to speak with different people on an equal footing.

What would you have liked to do or learn during your studies?

International experience is important and highly recommended. Personally, I think I would have benefited from one or two internships. As I am interested in languages, I was very disappointed at the TU Berlin at the beginning of my studies that I couldn't take Spanish as a graded minor. A latex and matlab course were good for me in that regard. I also wish I had learned Python and C in addition to Java.

Why did you decide on your current career?

The temporary project job was too uncertain and a too big stress factor for me. Therefore, I wanted to get out of the direct science business. On the other hand, I was and still am connected to science. I wanted to contribute to the fact that good science can be done, that the legal and administrative requirements are met, but on the other hand also enable scientists to focus primarily on their research and not on bureaucracy for the sake of bureaucracy. Therefore, a pragmatic and binding approach is important to me, which is also highly appreciated.

At the same time, this job allows me to stay on top of things and follow what is currently being researched in various projects in Germany and Europe. That is and remains exciting!

What recommendations do you have for students who want to complete their studies in a timely manner?

If you were able to handle the study content, homework, and final papers well - or if you have supervisors (professors, lecturers, tutors, etc.) who suggest it to you, then consider a doctorate. Since this means a lot of work and effort, don't do this while working a job.

If you are sure you will leave the university after graduation, do internships at one or two companies beforehand to get a first impression and form an informed opinion about which direction you can continue in. This personal opinion will impress in job interviews and should increase your confidence.