The Peter P. Chen Award was presented to Bernhard Thalheim on 22 October 2008 for his research concerning the Entity-relationship model. Born in 1952 in Radebeul, Germany, Thalheim built an extensive career spanning engineering, computer science, and mathematics. He maintains a focus on the formalization of information systems and the theoretical foundations of conceptual modeling.
Academic Background
Thalheim completed his M.Sc. in mathematics and computer science at the Dresden University of Technology in 1975. He continued his studies at Lomonosov Moscow State University, earning his PhD in discrete mathematics in 1979. In 1985, he returned to the Dresden University of Technology to achieve his habilitation in theoretical computer science.
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His academic tenure includes positions at several institutions. He worked at TU Dresden from 1986 to 1989 and at the University of Rostock until 1993. Between 1993 and 2003, he served as a dean and full professor at the Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg. He later joined the University of Kiel. Internationally, he has held visiting professorships at Kuwait University, the University of Klagenfurt, the Alfréd Rényi Institute of Mathematics, and Massey University.
Contributions to Conceptual Modeling
Thalheim developed formalizations for conceptual modeling, including the Higher Order Extended ER model and dependency theories in relational databases. His practical frameworks include RADD, a tool for rapid application and database development, and VisualSQL. His research extends to multi-model engineering, the systematic creation of internet sites, and business process notation.
Professional Engagement
Beyond his teaching and research, Thalheim founded the German Chapter of DAMA. He serves on the editorial boards of journals such as Data and Knowledge Engineering. He also functions as an international Vice-Chair for the FoIKS conference steering committee and contributes to the advisory board of Dataport. In 2005, he was appointed Kolmogorov Professor h.c. at Lomonosov Moscow State University.
Fast facts
- Born: 1952, Radebeul, Germany
- Citizenship: Germany
- Field: Computer science, mathematics
- Academic degree: Doctor of Sciences
- Major Award: Peter P. Chen Award, 2008
- Primary research: Conceptual modeling
Questions readers ask
What is Bernhard Thalheim's primary field of study?
He is a computer scientist and mathematician known for his work in information systems engineering and conceptual modeling.
Where has he held academic positions?
He has held professorships at TU Dresden, the University of Rostock, Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg, and the University of Kiel, among other international institutions.
Achievements
- Held posts at TU Dresden, Kiel University and Brandenburg University of Technology Cottbus-Senftenberg
