In terms of international experience, Schneider is an old hand for the new position. He completed his doctorate degree in England and has traveled extensively around the globe. He has been Professor at the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering since 1993 and was instrumental in establishing the international, double-degree Master's program of Process Engineering (MPE) in cooperation with the University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn/Poland, a commitment he will continue in his position as MPE Program Director.

As the new head of the International Center, Schneider is taking the baton from Professor Lothar Schüssele, who for the past 20 years has been the driving force behind the University's international development.