Mascha Brost has a degree in mechanical engineering and a Master's in Integral Design. She works as a project manager at the Institute of Vehicle Concepts in Stuttgart, including the Schorndorf Real-World Laboratory research project.
When I was a child, I got on my bike and just went for a ride. While doing so, I dreamed of cities that were less dominated by car traffic and provided more space for people. Today, I'm interested in how others get exactly where they want to go – as comfortably and environmentally friendly as possible.
I started working at the Institute of Vehicle Concepts in Stuttgart five years ago conducting emission measurements of passenger cars using the institute's own roller dynamometer. These measurements contribute to, for example, a better understanding of the impact of hybrid vehicles on air quality. In the meantime, I have been working on alternative vehicle concepts – from electric vehicles that are more efficient, smaller and lighter than passenger cars to vehicles for public transport ‘on demand’.
Our research never focuses on technical aspects alone; we always consider the user requirements as well. Nowadays, for example, we are all well connected. Future transport services must adapt to the changing living conditions – public transport providers are already following suit and examining new mobility concepts together with us. Smartphones and apps contribute to making transport more efficient and user friendly.
My team comprises colleagues from a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, environmental science, social sciences, product design and economics. The many different minds guarantee a comprehensive approach, especially when, as is the case with us, women and men conduct research together.
In the Schorndorf Real-World Laboratory research project (German link), we immediately involved the citizens of Schorndorf, developed a demand-oriented bus system together with them and tested it over a period of nine months. For the users, this meant shorter walking distances, new direct connections and more flexibility. We collected plenty of data and gained a lot of experience during the project. Their evaluation provides us with new insights into the implementation of future-oriented mobility concepts for public transport.
Like Mascha Brost, all researchers at DLR pursue their tasks with curiosity and passion every day. They are free to focus all their energy on research and carry out pioneering work in the areas of aeronautics, space, energy, transport, security and digitalisation.
What do our female researchers in particular value at DLR?
Would you like to bring your expertise and innovative drive to DLR? You can find our current job advertisements here.
To institute
Appreciation and individual development: scientists at DLR can focus all their energy on research
Ready for takeoff: your pathway to DLR
Innovation is at its greatest when men and women carry out research together. A good example of this – DLR!