Stefan Dörsch received his PhD in mechanical engineering in 2003 from the Technical University of Berlin, in which he already dealt with dry friction in brake systems. After several positions as project engineer and team-leader in the testing area, he became responsible for the Center of Competence for brake systems, couplings and door-systems within DB Systemtechnik, the engineering company of Deutsche Bahn. He is member of DMG (society of railway engineers) and VDI. He represents Deutsche Bahn in several committees within the International Union of Railways and international standardisation groups.