Speeches

Invited Panel – Winter School “Promotion – der nächste Schritt?”

Hamburg Research Academy (HRA) 

 In February 2026, Dr. Ya-Qing Zhan is invited as a panelist in the Winter School for first-generation female academics interested in pursuing a doctorate, organized by Pro Exzellenzia lead in cooperation with the Hamburg Research Academy (HRA).

As part of a moderated discussion, she shared insights into her academic journey, from studying in Taiwan to completing her doctorate in geography at Universität Hamburg, and reflected on career transitions between academia and municipal climate management. The exchange offered participants practical perspectives on navigating doctoral studies, building interdisciplinary profiles, and shaping individual career paths. The conversation fostered an open and encouraging dialogue on academic challenges, personal development, and opportunities beyond the university context.

Event: Podiumsgespräch im Rahmen der Winter School „Promotion – der nächste Schritt?“
Date: February 5, 2026
Location: Hamburg Research Academy (HRA), Hamburg, Germany
Co-Panelists: Dr. Yvonne Robel
Moderation: Saskia Pfeiffer (HRA); Dr. Nina Feltz (Pro Exzellenzia lead)
Language: German

Photo Credit: Alexandra Varenhold  

Invited Speech – Annual Curry Dinner of the Ostasiatischer Verein Bremen

In October 2025, Dr. Ya-Qing Zhan was invited as a speaker to the traditional Curryessen celebrating the 125th anniversary of the Ostasiatischer Verein Bremen.

Her talk explored Taiwan’s modern history and present-day society through the perspective of three generations, highlighting how education, culture, and political conditions have shaped different forms of identity over time.

By weaving together family history, literary research, and academic training in geography and cultural studies, she offered personal insights into Taiwan’s colonial past, democratization, and contemporary challenges. The talk sparked engaged discussions among the participants and contributed to a lively exchange on culture, identity, and international understanding.

Speech Topic: Taiwan across Generations: Cultural Identity and Democratic Transformation

Location: Atlantic Grand Hotel, Bremen, Germany

Language: German

Photo Credit: Michael Rudolph