Heike Riel Takes Office as President of the German Physical Society

On 1 April 2026, Dr. Heike Riel, IBM Fellow, Head of Science & Technology at IBM Research and NCCR SPIN Vice Director, took over as President of the German Physical Society (DPG). Deutsche Physikalische Gesellschaft

Since the DPG was founded in 1845, Riel is only the second woman to head the organization, following Johanna Stachel, who served as DPG President from 2012 to 2014.

With the guiding principle "Progress arises from the courage to cross boundaries", Riel begins her term with the aim of strengthening physics in the long term and raising its profile — encompassing both fundamental research and applied physics.

She has also placed a strong emphasis on engaging the next generation: attracting young scientists, particularly women, is a central priority for her presidency.

The NCCR SPIN community congratulates Dr. Riel on this well-deserved appointment and looks forward to her leadership in the German and international physics community.