Exhibition highlights the achievements of women’s empowerment

Spotlight on female scientists and their achievements

How can targeted support bring about lasting change in the academic world? The ‘FEM*Lights @ BTU’ exhibition provides clear answers to this question. Photos, statistics, personal accounts and real-life examples demonstrate how the Professorinnenprogramm III supports female academics at the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg (BTU) in their career paths, whilst simultaneously driving structural change within the university.

The posters provide an insight into the range of measures implemented – from raising the profile of female role models, through mentoring, networking and career programmes, to supporting young STEM talent, strengthening debating and committee skills, and building sustainable women’s networks.

Lasting impact of the Female Professors Programme III

After more than five years, the Women Professors Programme III at the BTU came to an end on 30 June 2026. However, the results achieved will have an impact far beyond the project’s duration:

• The proportion of female professors rose from 21 to 31 per cent.
• 32 STEM scholarships for women were awarded.
• A data-driven gender monitoring system was established.
• Mentoring, networking and career support programmes were set up and made a permanent feature.
• Female researchers at the BTU gained greater visibility both nationally and internationally.

Closing event sent a clear message

As early as 25 June 2026, the BTU celebrated the successful completion of the Third Programme for Women Professors with the ‘FEM*Lights’ event on campus. Together with Brandenburg’s Minister for Science, Manja Schüle, BTU President Gesine Grande and numerous participants from the worlds of academia, politics and society, the progress achieved and its significance for the university’s future were celebrated.

Federal-state programme with a lasting impact

The Women Professors Programme III was funded by the federal and state governments and aimed to strengthen gender equality in science and research in the long term. At the BTU, the programme was implemented under the leadership of Birgit Hendrischke at the Central Equality Office.

Exhibition at a glance

**FEM*Lights @ BTU – Poster exhibition
Dates: 5 to 31 August 2026
Venue: Information, Communication and Media Centre (IKMZ), ground floor, BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg
Admission: free during regular opening hours.