(train passage over Tian Shan, Xinjiang, 2007)

"Don't expect perfection from geologists, they all have their faults!"

But I try my best and I like my job ...

Initially, I studied geosciences, so I might call myself a geologist. But somehow I found the applied subjects more interesting, and also the maths related courses were more fun. At some point, I came across natural hazards and what science can do to prevent disasters. I thought that this is for me, so I tackled a Master program in mountain risk engineering. Right away I found myself with unpreventable natural hazards – earthquakes and landslides, both of which I find scary and fascinating, especially when they happen together. Luckily, I got a PhD and three PostDocs in exactly that field. – Glückspilz!