Prof. Dr. Michael Nitsche receives honorary doctorate

Prof. Dr. Michael Nitsche, Scientific Director of the Leibniz Research Centre for Working Environment and Human Factors (IfADo), was awarded an honorary doctorate for his research work by the University of Hasselt (Belgium) on May 28. He researches non-invasive brain stimulation and thus contributes to the question of how an aging society can be kept as healthy and active as possible.

“With the honorary doctorate, our faculty would like to recognize a scientific pioneer who has made an important contribution to the field of rehabilitation science with his findings in neuroscience,” explained Prof. Raf Meesen, Dean of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Sciences at Hasselt University.

Non-invasive brain stimulation uses electrodes to stimulate or suppress certain regions of the brain. This method is used to research and improve neuronal plasticity and cognitive processes in the human brain. Prof. Nitsche was one of “the first to systematically scrutinize the mechanisms of action of this intervention and explore the technical, medical, and ethical conditions of safe cognitive enhancement in humans by rigorously grounding enhancement techniques in knowledge about the neuroscience and psychology of the human brain,” Prof. Meesen emphasized in his laudatory speech. As a result, Nitsche's research has reshaped therapeutic strategies for neurological rehabilitation.

Prof. Meesen justified the award of the honorary doctorate as follows: "Nitsche's work is particularly valuable. It supports our commitment to helping older people live independently for longer, which not only improves their quality of life, but also contributes to the economy and reduces the burden of care on families. The award of an honorary doctorate recognizes Nitsche's scientific achievements and his commitment to the power of science and international cooperation for the benefit of society and its people."