The IHK University Prize for Business is awarded annually to bachelor's, master's, and doctoral theses that stand out for their scientific quality and economic benefit. Among the 2025 prize winners is Alexander Weidenbrück, who researched patches for bioimpedance measurement at Lohmann in Neuwied as part of his bachelor's thesis at Koblenz University of Applied Sciences. The term “patches” or “wearables” refers to smart plasters with integrated sensors that are stuck directly onto the skin. A receiver is used to measure and monitor bodily functions – something that is already possible to some extent with apps today. Bioimpedance is used to determine the electrical resistance of the human body, which provides information about the composition of body tissue.
From craftsmanship to science
Alexander Weidenbrück, 30, is currently studying for a master's degree in applied physics at the RheinAhrCampus in Remagen and already has a bachelor's degree in medical technology. His professional roots lie in craftsmanship, as he completed an apprenticeship as an automotive mechatronics technician and worked in this field for several years before returning to education. He sees his professional future in the field of applied physics or medical technology but can also imagine working in related fields and taking on new challenges.
The university award is a special honor for him: "I am delighted to receive this award and to be working with Lohmann. The project has laid the foundations for my scientific development and career. I am very grateful for that. It is something very special for me that the knowledge gained in this collaboration between science and practice will flow into future product developments. This was additional motivation for me to put my heart and soul into this project."
A remarkable success
”We are delighted that Alexander Weidenbrück's work has received special recognition in the form of the University Award," says Dr. Carsten Herzhoff, CTO of Lohmann, adding: “The entire Lohmann team congratulates him on this remarkable achievement. His findings not only benefit science but also contribute to rapid and efficient product development at Lohmann. This award also demonstrates the importance of Lohmann's close cooperation with colleges, universities, and research institutes, and we greatly appreciate that Alexander Weidenbrück will continue to work for us as a student trainee.”
Important contribution to technology transfer
The results of the bachelor's thesis on “Development, design, and characterization of a patch for bioimpedance measurement” were incorporated into the development of the EBIS patch. They helped bring new technologies to mass production readiness via existing roll-to-roll processes, i.e., existing production capabilities.
Science and industry – a living partnership at Lohmann
For Lohmann, the close integration of science and practice has been a reality for many years. This gives students and researchers the opportunity to further develop and deepen their theoretical knowledge in the context of practical projects. At the same time, Lohmann benefits from new ideas, fresh approaches, and direct proximity to current scientific developments.
Careers begin with curiosity – and a strong partner
Lohmann also uses this close exchange to position itself early on as an innovative and attractive employer, especially for students from technical disciplines such as electrical engineering and process engineering. This not only strengthens the company's innovative power in the long term, but also further expands its technological lead.
Award ceremony strengthens bridge between research and industry
The award will be presented on September 30, 2025, and is of central importance to the Koblenz IHK (Chamber of Industry and Commerce) in promoting cooperation between companies, universities, and research institutes in the region.
Further information on the IHK University Prize for Business can be found at: https://www.ihk.de/koblenz/interessenvertretung/hochschulpreis-der-wirtschaft-5675158
