Dr Tobias Hecker is a Professor of Clinical Psychology and Violence Research at the Department of Psychology and the Deputy Scientific Director of the Institute for Interdisciplinary Research on Conflict and Violence at Bielefeld University, Germany. His research focuses on drivers, consequences and the prevention of violence against children and children and adolscents' mental health, particularly in low- and middle-income settings. Dr Hecker has co-developed the preventative intervention Interaction Competencies with Children (ICC), with arms for Teachers (ICC-T), for Parents (ICC-P) and for Caregivers in institutional care settings (ICC-C). His work bridges clinical psychology, developmental psychopathology, public health, and child protection. He has extensive experience in interdisciplinary and cross-cultural research collaborations, including projects in sub-Saharan Africa. Through his research, teaching, supervision, and international partnerships, Dr Hecker contributes to advancing evidence-based strategies for preventing violence against children and improving mental health and wellbeing among vulnerable populations.