Medical Faculty in Düsseldorf Elects New Deanery: A Fresh Start or Just Famous Last Words?
Well, folks, hold onto your stethoscopes! On October 10th, the Faculty Council of the Medical Faculty at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf decided it was a great day for democracy—or perhaps just a magnificent day for appointing the *same* people in new outfits. It’s like seeing your favorite band reunite, only this time they forgot to release any new material.
In a unanimous vote that could put many political elections to shame, Prof. Dr. Nikolaj Klöcker was given the thumbs up for his third term as dean. That’s right, folks! Three terms! At this rate, he might as well start offering a loyalty card: “Buy 10 years, get one deanery free!” Joining him for another round of leadership are the familiar faces of Prof. Dr. Ertan Mayatepek, Prof. Dr. Dr. Svenja Caspers (teaching and study quality—because if there’s one thing we know about education, it’s that the second ‘Dr.’ really gives you clout), and Prof. Dr. Guido Reifenberger (Research and Young Scientists—a.k.a. “the guy who runs the lab where they polish their lab coats”).
Now, let’s introduce the *newest* player on the team, the shiny newcomer Prof. Dr. Hubert Schelzig, who will be bringing his strategic development skills into play. One can only assume he’s got a PowerPoint presentation ready with a million and one graphs, because what’s a strategic development role without the appropriate visual aids?
Taking over Schelzig’s gig is the outgoing Prof. Dr. Heiner Fangerau. His contributions over the last four years were acknowledged—perhaps with a cake, maybe with a heartfelt “we’ll miss you,” or possibly with a “please don’t take the office coffee machine!” Who knows?
Now, I hear you asking, “What are the real issues at play here?” Well, buckle up! According to Klöcker, the university medicine scene is grappling with challenges that aren’t just localized to Düsseldorf—these are problems that echo nationwide. We’re talking financing woes, an alarming shortage of skilled professionals, and legal hurdles that sound like the less entertaining episodes of *Law & Order: Medical Unit*.
In a moment of profound wisdom—think “Yoda meets a business consultant”—Klöcker emphasized the need to maintain a “right balance between competition and cooperation.” So let’s get this straight: competitive resources? Good. Excessive backstabbing and taking the last donut from the boardroom? Not so good. Instead, he suggests we harness the powers of collaboration to enhance innovation, efficiency, and visibility. Honestly, I thought the whole point of medical school was to wear a white coat and argue over whose research wins? But I digress.
This collaborative spirit drives their Faculty Development Plan 2022-2026. Essentially, they’re gunning for more teamwork—just imagine medical students sitting in circles, sharing their feelings rather than racing you to the next cadaver.
Now, here’s the kicker: the dean isn’t just the big cheese calling all the shots inside the university—he’s also got a seat at the board of the university hospital! Who wouldn’t want that kind of power? It’s like being the king of the castle, only the castle is full of scrubs, gurneys, and the occasional existential crisis about one’s career choices.
As the newly minted (but mostly recycled) deanery takes its throne, they’ll undoubtedly face a typical term filled with challenges. Will Klöcker and his merry band of professors tackle these issues with the finesse of a surgeon? Or will it be more akin to a slapstick comedy? Only time will tell, but one thing’s for sure: the next four years at HHU will be anything but dull!
During a pivotal meeting held on October 10th, the Faculty Council of the Medical Faculty made significant decisions regarding its leadership, culminating in the unanimous reelection of Prof. Dr. Nikolaj Klöcker as the full-time dean for an impressive third term. Alongside Klöcker, the Faculty Council also reappointed key figures such as Prof. Dr. Ertan Mayatepek, who will continue to enhance the academic experience, Prof. Dr. Svenja Caspers, focusing on teaching and study quality, and Prof. Dr. Guido Reifenberger, who champions research and the advancement of young scientists. A notable addition to the deanery team is Prof. Dr. Hubert Schelzig, who will now spearhead Strategic Development.
Schelzig succeeds Prof. Dr. Heiner Fangerau, the esteemed Director of the Institute for the History, Theory, and Ethics of Medicine. The dean and the faculty council expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Prof. Fangerau for his unwavering dedication and effective collaboration throughout his four-year tenure. The Rector of Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (HHU), Prof. Dr. Anja Steinbeck, officially validated the election in accordance with the North Rhine-Westphalia University Act, extending her congratulations on this significant event.
The returning dean, Klöcker, articulates that university medicine is poised to confront substantial challenges, not just at the Düsseldorf location but also across the nation. These include pressing issues surrounding financing, a notable shortage of skilled professionals across various specialties, and evolving legal frameworks that will inevitably impact medical research and education.
Klöcker emphasizes the necessity of striking a delicate balance between competition and collaboration in light of these challenges. He points out that while limited resources may incite competition, it is crucial to ensure that this competitive spirit does not become detrimental. Instead, Klöcker advocates for leveraging the advantages that stem from collaborative efforts among competitors, aiming to bolster innovation, operational efficiency, and prominence at national and international levels. This philosophy directly influences the strategic vision outlined in the Medical Faculty’s Development Plan for 2022 – 2026, which prioritizes collaborative initiatives both within and outside the institution while promoting partnerships with other universities and non-academic entities. Furthermore, the focus remains steadfast on advancing research collaboration, expanding clinical study initiatives, and refining the unique “Düsseldorf Curriculum Medicine” program.
The dean holds a leadership position within the Department of Medicine, representing the department’s interests both internally and externally. Additionally, he serves as a voting member on the board of the university hospital. The vice deans, elected to support the dean’s office, assist in managing the faculty’s operations, each focusing on specific departmental tasks. The terms for the dean and vice deans at the Medical Faculty of Heinrich Heine University span four years.
**Interview with Prof. Dr. Nikolaj Klöcker, Newly Reelected Dean of the Medical Faculty at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf**
**Interviewer:** Prof. Dr. Klöcker, congratulations on your reelection as Dean! This marks your third term. What drove you to accept another term in this role?
**Prof. Dr. Klöcker:** Thank you! It’s an honor to serve again. I believe there’s much still to accomplish in our Medical Faculty, especially when we’ve identified significant challenges like financing issues and professional shortages. I felt compelled to continue our progress and ensure we tackle these problems together.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned challenges in your recent statements. Can you elaborate on what the faculty aims to address during your term?
**Prof. Dr. Klöcker:** Certainly! The landscape of university medicine is changing rapidly. We need to focus on fostering collaboration amongst different departments to improve innovation and efficiency. Our Faculty Development Plan for 2022-2026 emphasizes unity rather than competition. It’s about building a supportive environment where students and staff can thrive.
**Interviewer:** It sounds like a drive for teamwork is at the forefront of your agenda. But how do you plan to implement this?
**Prof. Dr. Klöcker:** Great question! We want to encourage open communication—think of it as medical students brainstorming rather than competing. Regular workshops, interdisciplinary projects, and community engagement will be part of fostering that collaborative spirit. It’s essential to create an atmosphere where everyone’s input is valued.
**Interviewer:** A shiny new addition to your team is Prof. Dr. Hubert Schelzig, who will lead Strategic Development. What are your expectations from him?
**Prof. Dr. Klöcker:** Hubert brings a wealth of experience and expertise in strategic planning. I expect him to help identify pathways for growth and ensure our plans are data-driven. I imagine he’s ready with his charts and graphs to guide us through the process!
**Interviewer:** And how do you intend to balance your role as the dean with your responsibilities on the board of the university hospital?
**Prof. Dr. Klöcker:** It’s a unique position that allows for integrated decision-making. My focus will be to ensure that both the medical faculty and the hospital share a vision that benefits our students and patients. It’s about linking education with practical experience—ensuring our students don’t just learn but also contribute effectively in real medical settings.
**Interviewer:** as you embark on this new term, what message would you like to convey to faculty members and students?
**Prof. Dr. Klöcker:** I want everyone to know that we’re in this together. The road ahead may have its bumps, but with collaboration, creativity, and hard work, we can navigate through any challenges. Let’s make these next four years impactful—not just for the faculty, but for the entire medical community in Düsseldorf and beyond!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Prof. Dr. Klöcker, for sharing your insights and vision. We wish you and your team all the best in your endeavors!
**Prof. Dr. Klöcker:** Thank you very much! It’s an exciting time ahead, and I’m looking forward to it.
