Skip to main content Skip to primary navigation

Michelle Bendrich

R&D project manager
Hanau-Wolfgang, Germany
Automotive Catalysts
Working for Umicore since 2013
"I have met incredible people working at Umicore who have become inspirational role models, mentors, and friends."

Can you describe your role/position at Umicore?

I am part of the automotive catalyst simulation team at Umicore in Hanau, Germany. In my role, I develop and build state-of-the-art simulation models to predict the performance of Umicore’s automotive catalysts. These models are then being used in simulations, run by myself or others, to support our catalyst development as well as product development teams with their designs.

What do you like about your job?

I love that the models we develop and simulations we run can help make processes more efficient (i.e., fewer experiments are needed) and provide a better understanding on how to improve our catalyst and system designs, ultimately supporting our teams.

What do you like about working at Umicore?

I really enjoy working together with my colleagues in both the modelling team as well as the many different global departments. Overall, I have met incredible people working at Umicore who have become inspirational role models, mentors, and friends.

Why did you want to work at Umicore?

I actually came to Umicore to complete both my Master and Ph.D. research in cooperation with my university. The interesting tasks, awesome colleagues, and Umicore’s focus on sustainability convinced me to apply to join as a Manager.

What do you look forward to when you set off to work in the morning?

I look forward to seeing my colleagues and continuing to contribute to projects through my work.

What has been the highlight of your time at Umicore so far?

In addition to my work, I am an active organizing member of our Umicore Automotive Catalyst Learning Community and our Frauen@Umicore (Women@Umicore) Germany network. Here, I have had a lot of fun organizing events together with other active members in the communities. My personal favourite highlight was organizing a global diversity & inclusion event on “Privilege & Mindset: How do you create an inclusive organization?” with HeForShe UN Women Deutschland Ambassador Robert Franken. 

Any advice for newcomers?

Umicore believes that the diversity of thought leads to more innovation and improves the quality of its decisions. Therefore, feel free to express your ideas and thoughts early on to help shape our work.

Who is your female role model?

Throughout life’s journey, I have been lucky to have encountered many female role models that have inspired me in different ways. Part of that journey has included being inspired by many different women working at Umicore, such as through their ideas or leadership.