Beginning in 1971, Kristina Reiss pursued mathematics at Heidelberg University, eventually completing her doctoral degree in 1980. Her dissertation, titled Eine allgemeinere Kennzeichnung der sporadischen einfachen Gruppe von Rudvalis, focused on the complexities of group theory. This foundational academic work was completed under the supervision of Zvonimir Janko, setting the trajectory for a long career in mathematics education.
Early Career and Research
Following her doctorate, Reiss held a research position at the Karlsruhe University of Education, where she remained from 1980 until 1991. Her transition to teaching in applied environments began in 1991 at the University of Applied Sciences Stuttgart. Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, she maintained a broad geographical presence within German academia, including roles at the University of Flensburg starting in 1992, followed by the University of Oldenburg from 1997 to 2002.
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In 2002, she moved to the University of Augsburg, remaining there until 2005. That year, she transitioned to LMU Munich to serve as a professor of mathematics and computer science education. Her career reached a significant milestone in 2009 when she accepted the Heinz Nixdorf Chair of Mathematics Education at the Technical University of Munich. She held this professorship until 2021, concurrently serving as the dean of the TUM School of Education from 2014 to 2021.
Institutional Recognition and PISA
Beyond her specific departmental duties, Reiss took on national roles in educational assessment. She served as the director of the PISA study in Germany between 2014 and 2021. Her standing in the academic community was further solidified when she joined Acatech, the German Academy of Science and Engineering, in 2011. Additionally, the federal government recognized her professional service by awarding her the Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany.
Fast facts
- Born: 1952
- Education: Heidelberg University
- Heinz Nixdorf Chair of Mathematics Education: 2009-2021
- Director of PISA study in Germany: 2014-2021
- Member of Acatech: Since 2011
- Award: Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany
Questions readers ask
What was the subject of Kristina Reiss's doctoral dissertation?
Her dissertation concerned group theory and was titled Eine allgemeinere Kennzeichnung der sporadischen einfachen Gruppe von Rudvalis.
Did Reiss hold any administrative roles at the Technical University of Munich?
Yes, she served as the dean of the TUM School of Education from 2014 until 2021.
Achievements
- Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany
- Held posts at University of Oldenburg, Technical University of Munich and Technical University of Munich
