Melanie Brand studied sociology with a focus on cultural sociology at the University of Konstanz. Her interests lie in practice-oriented research and in supporting processes of reflection and development. She is experienced in the planning, funding and realization of research projects as well as in developing and offering training and further education formats. Her ethnographic doctoral project “Breaking the Cycle of Violence” focuses on domestic violence counseling and interventions in South Africa. As an anti-discrimination counselor, she also brings a diversity-sensitive perspective to the design of Citizen Science education and training programs. Melanie Brand joined our team in October 2023 and is in charge of developing the CAS (Certificate of Advanced Studies) in Citizen Science and Public Engagement.