Ulrich Büker
"In grateful remembrance of a remarkable legacy"
The Department of Computer Science and Automation (IAT) and the Institute Industrial IT (inIT) at TH OWL mourn the loss of Professor Ulrich Büker, who passed away on 27 October 2026 at the age of 61 following a prolonged illness. We have lost an accomplished scientist, a valued colleague and, above all, a wonderful person.
For many years, Ulrich Büker played a key role in shaping the research and development of the Department of Computer Science and Automation. He also served on the inIT Board of Directors from 2022 and became Deputy Director of the institute in 2024. Through his research group, "Intelligent Systems", he brought his many years of industry experience into academia and numerous research projects. His research focused on autonomous driving and the development of intelligent mobility solutions. Together with his research group, he made significant contributions to the NeMo.bil project, which received the German Mobility Award in 2024.
Even during his illness, Ulrich remained closely connected to our department, the institute and, above all, his team.
Ulrich was a calm, warm-hearted and caring person who was always a pleasure to be around. He was an attentive listener, always friendly, open and approachable. We will miss working with him, the many good conversations, his genuine interest in others and the calm, unassuming manner that made him such a valued part of everyday life at our department and institute.
Beyond science, travelling and photography were among his greatest passions. He particularly loved spending time in nature, whether in Scotland, Norway or the snow-covered mountains of Italy. Wherever he went, he had his camera with him and an eye for remarkable landscapes, beautiful light and the small and great wonders of nature.
His photographs, which he compiled into self-designed wall calendars each year, have become a familiar sight throughout our institute and department. They will continue to have a special place there, reminding us of him.
We are grateful for the time we shared, for everything Ulrich contributed to our department and institute, both professionally and personally, and for the many encounters and memories that will stay with us.
Our thoughts are with his family and everyone who was close to him. We extend our deepest sympathy to them during this difficult time.
Ulrich will be deeply missed. As a colleague, as a supervisor and, above all, as a person.
The Dean’s Office and all members of the Department of Computer Science and Automation, together with the Director and the entire team of inIT
“Beauty is often closer than we think. To me, Ostwestfalen-Lippe is full of special places and moments that I love to capture with my camera, preferably in the early morning hours or in the evening light.”
– Ulrich Büker, Natural Treasures of Ostwestfalen-Lippe 2026