Ann-Kathrin Schmitz holds a bachelor's degree in Geography from the University of Bonn. She is currently in the final stages of completing her master's degree in Geography with a specialization in Water in Global Change, also from the University of Bonn. She is passionate about climate change adaptation, disaster risk management, and future scenario development.

Previously, Ann-Kathrin has actively engaged in diverse work experiences through internships and student research assistant positions, significantly strengthening her interdisciplinary knowledge base. Notably, she completed an internship with the Friedrich-Ebert Foundation in Accra, gaining unique insights into Ghana's policy development. Among other things, she worked with a consultancy firm, where she contributed to the development of climate change adaptation concepts for municipalities in Germany. These experiences have equipped Ann-Kathrin with practical skills and a nuanced understanding of complex issues.

Ann-Kathrin is at the moment supporting the organization of the Expert Meeting on AI and Climate Change, where she is working closely with Sönke Kreft.