Awarding of the 1st GFZ Trainee Award

The GFZ Trainee Award 2026 goes to Karla Hettwer and Benedict Seidel.

Karla Hettwer, who is completing her apprenticeship as an office administration assistant in the GFZ’s administrative departments and executive board divisions, and Benedict Seidel, who is undertaking his apprenticeship as a physics laboratory assistant in Section 4.3 Geoenergy, have been awarded the first GFZ Trainee Award in recognition of their excellent performance and high level of commitment. The prize is being awarded for the first time by the GFZ Friends, the association of friends and supporters of the GFZ, and comes with a cash prize of 500 euros, a certificate of honour and a one-year honorary membership of the GFZ Friends.

Karla Hettwer has distinguished herself through her excellent performance and her dedicated support in the central administrative departments and in the areas overseen by the GFZ Executive Board. Her commitment contributes significantly to the smooth running of the institute and the quality of its administration.

Benedict Seidel was honoured for his outstanding achievements during his training as a physics laboratory assistant in Section 4.3 Geoenergy. He impressed with his in-depth technical understanding and great commitment to providing practical research support within the Geoenergy Section.

The introduction of the award underlines the GFZ’s values: quality, transparency and the targeted promotion of young talent. The award winners impressed in particular through their willingness to perform and their integration into the GFZ’s scientific and administrative processes. By launching this award for the first time, the Friends of the GFZ are sending an important signal regarding the recognition of vocational training at the GFZ.

Congratulations to Karla Hettwer and Benedict Seidel!