Prof. Dr. Burkhard Schmidt (born 1977) joined the team of the Marketing & Human Resources Management Department as Professor of Business Psychology at the beginning of September. The business graduate and organizational psychologist (TU Dortmund University) completed his doctorate in psychology at TU Dortmund University and subsequently headed a working group at the University of Heidelberg. Most recently, he was responsible for the business psychology degree programs at Fresenius University of Applied Sciences in Heidelberg. Schmidt has also been working as a freelance consultant, coach and supervisor since 2008.
Prof. Dr. Burkhard Schmidt introduces himself in this interview:
You have been a professor at HWG LU since 09.09.24. Have you had a good start?
Yes, I had a fantastic start as a professor at HWG LU. The students and colleagues are incredibly friendly and helpful. I'm really looking forward to the coming semesters and the exciting projects we'll be tackling together.
What tasks does your new position involve?
In my new position as Professor of Business Psychology at HWG LU, I have a variety of exciting tasks: I teach various courses in the field of business psychology, such as psychological foundations, consumer behavior and much more. I conduct research projects to gain new insights in business psychology and share them in scientific publications. My publications can also be viewed on Researchgate(https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Burkhard-Schmidt-4). Of course, I also supervise students in their final theses and support them as a mentor.
I also maintain and cultivate contacts with companies and other universities in order to promote cooperation and strengthen the practical relevance of education.
What do you find particularly appealing about your new position?
What particularly appeals to me about my new position as Professor of Business Psychology is the opportunity to combine knowledge and practice. It is incredibly exciting to accompany students on their academic path and give them practical insights into business psychology.
I am also looking forward to initiating my own research projects and gaining new insights that can enrich both science and practice. Collaborating with dedicated colleagues and exchanging ideas with the business world are also aspects that I value highly.
And, of course, it is a great pleasure to work in such a dynamic and inspiring environment as HWG LU.
What do you see as a particular challenge?
I see a particular challenge in finding a balance between education, research and administrative tasks. It is important to do justice to all areas and at the same time teach innovative and practical content.
What are your next goals?
My first goals are:
- Establishing exciting and interactive teaching methods to support students in the best possible way.
- Building a strong network with companies and other universities to strengthen the practical relevance.
- Initiating research projects that address current topics in business psychology and contribute to the further development of the subject area.
- Promoting students through individual supervision and support with their academic and professional goals.
What did you do professionally before you took up your post in Ludwigshafen?
I was a professor at a private university for the past 9 years and was responsible for the (business) psychology degree programs.
Why did you choose HWG LU?
The position at HWG LU offers me the opportunity to develop both professionally and personally and to take on new challenges. This is particularly appealing as I can work in an innovative and dynamic environment that allows me to continuously expand my skills and gain new perspectives. The close collaboration with committed students and colleagues as well as the numerous opportunities for cooperation with companies in the economically strong Ludwigshafen region also contribute to my professional and personal development.
Thank you very much!
(Interview: PE/Hoko)
