Waldemar Herdt
Director
Waldemar Herdt brings a wealth of expertise in sustainable development, policy-making, and international cooperation to his role as Director of CIRAS. A distinguished Agricultural Engineer with highest honors, Waldemar has dedicated his career to advancing innovative farming technologies and sustainable agricultural practices, which align with CIRAS’s mission of interdisciplinary innovation and global impact.
Key Contributions and Expertise:
Sustainable Agricultural Development: Waldemar’s academic and professional foundation in agricultural engineering enables him to integrate sustainable solutions into CIRAS’s research initiatives, particularly in sectors like environmental management and regenerative practices.
Legislative Expertise: As a former Member of the German Parliament (Bundestag), Waldemar gained extensive experience in legislative processes, policy-making, and governance. His ability to navigate complex political systems adds a critical dimension to CIRAS’s global initiatives.
International Leadership: Currently serving on multiple international committees, Waldemar contributes to the development of global policies that foster cooperation between public and private sectors. His insights into political and economic affairs enhance CIRAS’s ability to create impactful, scalable solutions.
Innovative Problem-Solving: With a career focused on addressing global challenges through sustainable practices, Waldemar is committed to advancing interdisciplinary approaches that drive long-term societal and environmental benefits.
Impact at CIRAS:
Waldemar’s deep understanding of policy and governance, combined with his leadership in sustainability, positions CIRAS as a global leader in research and development. His extensive international network and collaborative approach ensure that CIRAS builds strong partnerships with governments, organizations, and industries worldwide.
As Director, Waldemar guides CIRAS’s efforts across its 12 key sectors, ensuring that each initiative contributes to a sustainable and equitable future. His expertise in bridging the gap between public and private sectors empowers CIRAS to address pressing global challenges with innovative, practical solutions.
Through his leadership, CIRAS strengthens its role as a hub for transformative research and collaboration, driving progress in sustainability, technology, and global cooperation. Waldemar’s commitment to fostering international understanding and his strategic vision align with CIRAS’s mission to create a better future for humanity and the planet.
Sandra Bünger
Vice Director
Sandra Bünger brings a wealth of expertise in media strategy, public relations, and corporate communications to her role as Vice Director of CIRAS. A highly skilled Network and PR specialist, Alexandra operates at the intersection of strategic planning, journalism, and international relations, ensuring CIRAS’s initiatives are effectively positioned and communicated on a global scale.
Key Contributions and Expertise:
Media Strategy and Public Relations: Sandra’s extensive experience in PR and media sectors enables her to craft compelling narratives and strategic campaigns that enhance CIRAS’s global visibility and influence.
Global Network: With an extensive international contact portfolio in media and PR across key markets, Sandra fosters connections that strengthen CIRAS’s global partnerships and collaborative efforts.
Communications Leadership: Her background in journalism and corporate communications allows her to bridge the gap between business and political spheres, ensuring clear, impactful messaging for CIRAS’s interdisciplinary projects.
Advisory Expertise: Alexandra holds multiple advisory positions where she connects business leaders and policymakers, driving initiatives that align with CIRAS’s mission of global innovation and sustainable development.
Impact at CIRAS:
As Vice Director, Sandra plays a pivotal role in shaping CIRAS’s communication strategies and fostering international collaboration. Her leadership ensures that CIRAS’s vision and achievements resonate with diverse audiences, from policymakers to global innovators.
By leveraging her extensive network and expertise, Sandra strengthens CIRAS’s position as a leading global hub for interdisciplinary research and innovation. Her ability to connect business and political spheres enhances CIRAS’s ability to drive meaningful change, ensuring its initiatives contribute to a sustainable and equitable future.
Through her visionary leadership, Sandra empowers CIRAS to build lasting global relationships, amplify its mission, and make a transformative impact on the world stage.
Lothar Hartmann
Head of Technology & Finance
Lothar Hartmann brings over 35 years of unparalleled expertise in technology, finance, and sustainable innovation to CIRAS. His distinguished career spans multiple industries, including banking, insurance, automotive, and renewable energy, as well as leadership in large-scale global IT projects.
As Head of Technology & Finance, Lothar oversees the strategic integration of cutting-edge technologies across CIRAS’s 12 key sectors, particularly in renewable energy, IT architecture, and advanced systems management. His work aligns with CIRAS’s mission to foster interdisciplinary innovation and global collaboration.
Key Contributions and Expertise:
Technology and Innovation Leadership: Lothar has spearheaded global IT projects, managing system and network architecture, IT security, software development, and server consolidation for leading blue-chip companies.
Pioneering Digital Infrastructure: At the Max Planck Institute of Plasma Physics, he played a pivotal role in developing the global IT infrastructure for Project ITER, a milestone in scientific research.
Early Internet Development: Collaborated with CERN and NASA to implement the first version of the World Wide Web, revolutionizing how humanity connects and shares information.
Renewable Energy Expertise: Designed and developed large-scale photovoltaic plants across Europe, driving advancements in sustainable energy solutions.
High-Performance Computing: Built supercomputers and data centers with IBM, launching some of the largest global IT initiatives to date.
Impact at CIRAS:
Lothar’s comprehensive experience in advanced systems and sustainable development empowers CIRAS to lead transformative research and innovation. His expertise directly supports CIRAS’s focus on renewable energy, smart infrastructure, and digital transformation, helping the organization deliver impactful, future-ready solutions.
Through his leadership, CIRAS continues to bridge the gap between technology and sustainability, driving global progress in line with its mission to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
Thorsten Schmitt
Head of Operation
Thorsten Schmitt brings over 35 years of expertise in IT operations, innovative technology solutions, and secure infrastructure to CIRAS. With a diverse background spanning machine fitting, reactor operations, and computer science, Thorsten combines practical technical knowledge with a visionary approach to technology and data security.
As Head of Operations, Thorsten oversees the seamless execution of CIRAS’s global initiatives, ensuring that interdisciplinary projects are supported by robust, secure, and efficient IT systems. His leadership in operational strategy aligns with CIRAS’s mission to advance cutting-edge research and foster sustainable, secure innovation.
Key Contributions and Expertise:
Pioneering IT Security: As the founder of Free Media Networks Ltd., Thorsten developed a secure “parallel internet” that emphasizes user privacy and data security, addressing critical challenges in modern digital ecosystems.
Advanced Network Infrastructure: Thorsten’s extensive experience in designing and managing network infrastructures ensures the scalability and security of IT solutions for organizations of all sizes.
Software Development Expertise: He has led innovative projects in software development, creating user-centric applications that prioritize functionality, security, and adaptability.
Livestreaming and Media Technologies: Thorsten has a proven track record in livestreaming solutions, empowering businesses to reach global audiences through cutting-edge digital platforms.
Diverse Technical Foundation: His early career in machine fitting and reactor operations provided him with a deep understanding of complex systems, which he applies to CIRAS’s interdisciplinary research initiatives.
Impact at CIRAS:
Thorsten’s leadership ensures that CIRAS operates with a focus on technological resilience, operational excellence, and data security. His commitment to building innovative, privacy-focused IT infrastructure supports CIRAS’s efforts to advance research across 12 key sectors, including digital transformation, smart infrastructure, and decentralized systems.
Through his operational expertise, CIRAS benefits from secure and efficient project execution, enabling the organization to maintain its role as a global leader in innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. Thorsten’s vision for user-centric, secure technology solutions aligns perfectly with CIRAS’s mission to drive transformative change and build a sustainable, connected future.
Patrick Wettmann
Head of IT – Technology
Patrick Wettmann brings a wealth of expertise in mechanical engineering, IoT systems, and advanced IT solutions to CIRAS. With a career spanning decades, Patrick combines technical proficiency in system programming, blockchain development, and cybersecurity to drive CIRAS’s technological innovation and digital transformation initiatives.
As Head of IT, Patrick oversees the design, implementation, and management of CIRAS’s IT infrastructure, ensuring its robustness, security, and adaptability to the organization’s interdisciplinary research goals. His leadership fosters the integration of cutting-edge technologies with CIRAS’s mission to advance sustainable, global innovation.
Key Contributions and Expertise:
Mechanical Engineering and System Programming: Patrick’s specialization in SPS and CNC programming allows him to develop highly efficient and innovative IoT systems tailored to industry-specific needs.
Proficiency in Programming Languages: Mastery in programming languages such as C, C++, Python, PHP, and Java underpins his ability to develop versatile and scalable software solutions.
Web 3.0 and Blockchain Expertise: Patrick’s deep understanding of Web 3.0 and blockchain technology positions CIRAS at the forefront of decentralized systems and secure digital environments.
Cybersecurity Leadership: With extensive experience as a system and network administrator, Patrick focuses on creating secure IT infrastructures that safeguard CIRAS’s critical operations and data.
Hardware and Software Integration: His ability to manage complex systems ensures seamless operation across hardware and software platforms, supporting CIRAS’s research and development initiatives.
Impact at CIRAS:
Patrick’s expertise is instrumental in ensuring CIRAS operates with state-of-the-art IT systems that enable secure, efficient, and innovative research across 12 key sectors. His leadership in cybersecurity and blockchain development is particularly vital in advancing CIRAS’s initiatives in decentralized governance, smart infrastructure, and digital transformation.
Through his strategic management of IT infrastructure, Patrick ensures CIRAS remains a global leader in technological excellence, enabling interdisciplinary collaboration and transformative solutions for the challenges of the 21st century. His technical versatility and forward-thinking approach align with CIRAS’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and global impact.
Daniel Mantey
Director of Media
Daniel Mantey is a seasoned PR and media expert specializing in the development of impactful communication strategies and audience engagement concepts. With extensive experience in producing diverse media formats and leading international PR campaigns, Daniel brings a unique blend of expertise in media production, political analysis, and journalism to his role as Director of Media at CIRAS.
Key Contributions and Expertise:
Strategic Media Communications: Daniel excels in crafting media communication strategies that amplify CIRAS’s mission and projects. His ability to design audience-centric campaigns ensures that CIRAS’s initiatives reach and resonate with global audiences.
International PR Campaigns: With a proven track record in managing international PR initiatives, Daniel has successfully elevated brands and projects across diverse markets, leveraging his understanding of cultural nuances and global media trends.
Media Production Excellence: Daniel’s expertise spans various media formats, from digital content to broadcast productions, ensuring that CIRAS’s communication efforts are dynamic, engaging, and high-quality.
Political Journalism and Analysis: As an active political journalist, Daniel brings a sharp analytical lens to his work, enabling him to position CIRAS’s projects within relevant socio-political contexts. His experience in journalism enhances CIRAS’s ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity and impact.
Impact at CIRAS:
Daniel’s leadership ensures that CIRAS’s media presence is strategically aligned with its interdisciplinary research and development goals. By bridging the worlds of media production and political analysis, he creates communication strategies that not only inform but also inspire action and collaboration.
His global experience in media and PR allows CIRAS to connect with stakeholders across international markets, fostering partnerships and enhancing the organization’s global visibility. Daniel’s ability to adapt media strategies to diverse audiences ensures that CIRAS’s initiatives remain relevant and impactful on the world stage.
Through his innovative approach to media and communication, Daniel strengthens CIRAS’s position as a global leader in interdisciplinary innovation and collaboration, driving transformative change across its 12 key sectors. His dedication to excellence and strategic vision empowers CIRAS to engage and inspire a worldwide audience.
Elena Müller
Research Engineer
Elena Müller brings extensive expertise in engineering, research, and interdisciplinary applications to her role as Research Engineer at CIRAS. With a career spanning fields such as geomatics, industrial surveying, biotechnology, and plasma physics, Elena integrates her diverse experience to advance CIRAS’s research and innovation initiatives. Her technical proficiency and commitment to sustainable development align perfectly with CIRAS’s mission to drive transformative solutions across its 12 key sectors.
Key Contributions and Expertise:
Geomatics and Landscape Sciences: As a Laboratory Engineer in geomatics and geodesy at Hochschule Neubrandenburg, Elena specialized in surveying instruments and data analysis, contributing to advancements in land and spatial sciences.
Industrial Surveying and CAD: With experience as a lecturer in industrial surveying and CAD, she has educated future engineers while driving innovations in measurement technology and industrial applications.
Plasma Physics and Quality Assurance: At the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics, Elena played a key role in industrial surveying, work planning, and quality assurance, contributing to groundbreaking research in engineering and physics.
Biotechnology and Environmental Engineering: At Vermicon AG, she developed test systems for evaluating microorganisms in environmental, food, and medical technology using fluorescence microscopy, showcasing her ability to bridge biology and engineering.
Automotive Industry Sustainability: During her tenure at MINI, BMW (UK) Manufacturing Limited, she integrated environmentally protective measures into production processes, emphasizing sustainable industrial practices.
Medical Microbiology and Genetic Engineering: As a laboratory assistant in London, she conducted advanced genetic engineering techniques such as PFGE and PCR, contributing to medical diagnostics and research.
Impact at CIRAS:
Elena’s diverse technical background and interdisciplinary expertise make her an invaluable asset to CIRAS. Her ability to merge engineering precision with sustainability and innovation supports CIRAS’s initiatives in smart infrastructure, environmental management, and advanced measurement technologies.
As a Research Engineer, Elena contributes to the development and implementation of cutting-edge technologies that address global challenges. Her experience in quality assurance, biotechnology, and industrial processes ensures that CIRAS’s projects are not only innovative but also practical and sustainable.
Through her work at CIRAS, Elena advances the organization’s mission to create holistic solutions for a better future, driving global impact across science, technology, and sustainability. Her commitment to excellence and interdisciplinary collaboration embodies CIRAS’s vision of transformative innovation.
Anastasia Andrejewna Smaga
Head of Legal, IRIAS / CIRAS
Anastasia Smaga serves as the Head of Legal at IRIAS / CIRAS, where she ensures the organization’s compliance with international laws, ethical standards, and governance practices. With over two decades of experience in legal security and compliance, she brings a strategic approach to managing legal frameworks, mitigating risks, and fostering ethical operations across CIRAS’s global initiatives.
Key Contributions:
Compliance Expertise: Developed proprietary methodologies for compliance risk identification and governance, ensuring CIRAS adheres to international legal standards.
Legal Security Leadership: Implements policies that safeguard CIRAS’s intellectual property, secure partnerships, and ensure regulatory adherence in all projects.
Global Partnership Facilitation: Leads legal negotiations and establishes frameworks for CIRAS’s international collaborations, bridging diverse regulatory environments.
Governance Oversight: Guides CIRAS’s internal and external operations to uphold transparency, accountability, and ethical practices.
Professional Background:
Member of the BRICS Business Cooperation Committee, driving compliance-focused collaborations and creative initiatives.
Founder of compliance and legal security systems utilized by multinational corporations.
Managing Director at UniLegal, providing strategic legal advice to international organizations.
Education and Certifications:
Master of Laws (with distinction), MGIMO University, Moscow.
Certified Compliance Manager and Risk Assessment Expert.
Fluent in English and French, with expertise in legal terminology.
Impact at CIRAS:
Anastasia’s leadership ensures that CIRAS operates with unwavering legal and ethical integrity, allowing the organization to pursue its mission of advancing international research and collaboration confidently. Her ability to harmonize compliance with innovative projects strengthens CIRAS’s credibility and positions it as a trusted global partner.
Cristian-Gabriel Afanasov
Head of Media at CIRAS
Expert in Film and Media Production | International Cinematic Strategy | Business Development in the Creative Industry
Key Contributions and Expertise:
Strategic Cinematic Storytelling: Cristian excels in integrating high-quality visual storytelling into CIRAS’s media initiatives, ensuring that research findings, educational content, and institutional messages reach a global audience with clarity and impact.
International Film Production & Media Consulting: With a wealth of experience in managing large-scale film productions, Cristian specializes in the strategic planning and execution of feature films, documentaries, and commercial media projects, bringing a results-driven approach to media development at CIRAS.
Media Law & Business Strategy: Leveraging his background in economic and corporate law, Cristian navigates the complexities of film financing, intellectual property rights, and international media collaborations, ensuring that CIRAS’s media projects align with legal and business best practices.
Innovative Content Development: Cristian is at the forefront of developing cutting-edge cinematic content that bridges the gap between creative expression and strategic communication. His expertise in visual production and location management ensures high-quality media output that resonates with diverse audiences.
Global Media Partnerships: Through his leadership at Bucovina Film Production and extensive international network, Cristian fosters strategic collaborations with production houses, distributors, and media stakeholders, expanding CIRAS’s influence in global cinematic and media landscapes.
Impact at CIRAS:
Cristian’s leadership at CIRAS ensures that media production is not only a tool for communication but also a powerful instrument for research dissemination, interdisciplinary engagement, and audience interaction. By incorporating film production expertise into CIRAS’s core activities, he enhances the organization’s ability to translate complex concepts into compelling visual narratives.
His ability to align media strategies with CIRAS’s interdisciplinary research strengthens its position as a thought leader in science, education, and innovation. Under Cristian’s guidance, CIRAS leverages the power of cinematic storytelling to drive social impact, foster global collaborations, and inspire transformative change across its key sectors.
Through his strategic vision, technical expertise, and deep industry knowledge, Cristian ensures that CIRAS remains at the cutting edge of media-driven research communication, elevating the organization’s visibility and influence on the international stage.