Groundbreaking research doesn’t just happen in isolation – it lives from bridging the gap between different disciplines, high-level strategy, and day-to-day laboratory work . Bringing all these pieces together takes strong leadership and clear communication. Meet Evelyn Muschter, one of our Junior Research Group Leaders at CeTI.
CeTI: Evelyn, what does the title “Junior Research Group Leader” actually mean in the context of an Excellence Cluster?
Evelyn: A Junior Research Group Leader is both a researcher and a leader. It’s not just about publishing papers, it’s about taking charge of your own research vision, building a team, and pushing boundaries. You’re in the driver’s seat: managing projects, mentoring early-career researchers, and shaping the direction of your work. It’s a mix of freedom and responsibility, with plenty of learning along the way, but that’s what makes it exciting.
CeTI: What is your specific role within that structure?
Evelyn: As a Junior Research Group Leader, my role is about creating connections between people, ideas, and disciplines. I lead the Human Perception and Action in Technology (HPAT) group at CeTI, where we explore how humans interact with technology in ways that are intuitive, accessible, and meaningful. Beyond advancing research, I focus on building a team, mentoring young scientists, and fostering an environment where ideas can thrive. Within CeTI, my work bridges human perception with cutting-edge technologies by integrating perspectives from neuroscience, engineering, and design. Leadership, for me, is about showing up with purpose, sharing knowledge openly, and creating space for collaboration that drives meaningful progress.
CeTI: You lead the “Human Perception and Action in Technology” research area. What impact does it have for CeTI?
Evelyn: Within CeTI, my role as a Junior Research Group Leader and Area Human Leader is central to bridging the gap between human perception and cutting-edge technology. CeTI’s mission is to advance the tactile internet with humans in the loop, and my work ensures that these technologies are designed with human needs, behaviors, and limitations in mind. I’m here to make sure we’re not just innovating for the sake of technology but for the people who will interact with it. As an area leader, my role is about connection. It’s about linking the vision of the research cluster to the everyday work of researchers while building bridges between disciplines. It’s about ensuring ideas flow, people feel supported, and the work stays aligned with something bigger than the individual projects. I approach this by balancing strategy with hands-on coordination.
CeTI: What are your core tasks on a day-to-day basis?
Evelyn: My role is about balancing leadership, research, and collaboration. I define the research agenda for my group, oversee projects, and mentor team members to help them grow as independent researchers. Beyond managing resources and ensuring ethical standards, I work closely with colleagues across disciplines, particularly within CeTI, to integrate diverse expertise into our work. My focus is on creating impactful research that bridges human perception and technology while fostering an environment where creativity and collaboration thrive.
CeTI: What is the personal “added value” of this position for you?
Evelyn: The value of my role lies in its ability to hold the center. It’s about connecting people, ideas, and disciplines in a deliberate way. I don’t gatekeep knowledge; I share it. My focus is on breaking down silos, fostering collaboration, and keeping things real. It’s not about following rules—it’s about rewriting them to create something meaningful.
