Dr. Lena Henning

Academic visit: August - September 2026

Dr. Lena Henning is a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Sport and Exercise Psychology at the University of Münster. Her research focuses on the psychosocial determinants of physical activity and the reciprocal relationships between physical activity and mental health in childhood and adolescence. A particular focus of her work is on the role of self-perceptions and how they are shaped by social interactions and different developmental contexts and, in turn, influence physical activity. In recognition of her research, she recently received the 2026 Early Career Award in Sport Science (Landesnachwuchspreis Sportwissenschaft) from the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

“I had the opportunity to spend three weeks as a visiting researcher with the Psychosocial Health and Physical Activity research group at the Department of Sport, Exercise and Health. What I particularly enjoyed about my stay were the many opportunities to connect with inspiring colleagues. I had the chance to gain insights into research projects of the group while also presenting and discussing findings from my own research projects. The many conversations and different perspectives on shared research interests were particularly valuable and sparked several new ideas for future research. A special thank you goes to Prof. Dr. Markus Gerber and the entire team for taking so much time for discussions and exchange, for supporting me throughout my stay, and for making me feel welcome from day one. The three weeks flew by, and I am heading home with many wonderful memories, new research ideas, and new connections with excellent researchers and great colleagues. I am very grateful for this enriching experience and all the more excited to already return to Basel next year!”