With over 270 degree programs, FAU is among the 15 largest and leading universities for research in Germany. Over 6,000 employees and more than 39,000 students promote a culture of innovation, diversity and passion.
Get to know our newly-appointed professors who are driving forward research with their fresh ideas and creative approaches. Find out more about the people behind our research projects and their career paths, visions, and motivation for a successful academic future.
Prof. Dr. Wiebke Sondermann – Professorship for Inflammatory Dermatology
She has always wanted to run a marathon – Prof. Dr. Sondermann introduces herself.
What is your main area of research?
My main area of research lies in translational and interdisciplinary research into inflammatory skin diseases. My research interests center on investigating the brain-skin axis as well as the experimental investigation of the influence of chronic inflammatory dermatoses such as psoriasis and systemic anti-inflammatory therapies on the progression of malignant diseases such as malignant melanoma.
Why did you choose this topic?
The focus of my research is based on the central challenges in the clinical care of patients with inflammatory skin diseases, for whom psychological influencing factors and relevant co-morbitities such as cancer play a decisive role. My aim is to create close links between clinical questions and experimental research in order to transfer new findings directly into improved patient care tailored towards individuals’ needs.
Where were you before coming to FAU?
Before coming to FAU, I worked at the Department of Dermatology at Essen University Hospital for 14 years. That’s where I completed all my medical training to become a specialist in dermatological and venereal diseases and started my scientific career.
Where did you study and what subjects?
I studied medicine from 2005 to 2011 at the University of Münster.
Which events and activities would you like to take part in in Erlangen and the surroundings?
I’m looking forward to taking part in some outdoor pursuits in and around Erlangen and to testing the local restaurants. I’m also looking forward to Bergkirchweih.
What is your most useful tool as a professor?
As a dermatologist, I always carry sunscreen with an SPF of 50+ with me everywhere I go.
What did you want to be when you were growing up?
As a child, I wanted to work with old people one day. In my final years at high school, I was torn between law and medicine. The decision to study medicine, and especially dermatology later on, was definitely the right one and I haven’t regretted it for one second.
Do you have a role model? If so, did they influence your academic or professional career?
There have been and still are many people in my academic and professional career who have inspired me and from whom I have learned a great deal. I’m particularly impressed by leaders and managers who become successful because of hard work and determination and give priority to fairness instead of competition.
Have you got any hidden talents?
My friends have given me the nickname “the manager” on trips away with them because I am very good at organizing and planning things, both at work and in my private life.
Is there something you’ve always wanted to do?
To run a marathon.