Degree in Law, Cologne University. Former Research Assistant, Seminar für Staatsphilosophie und Rechtspolitik, Cologne University. 1991-93, practical legal training, Regional Court of Cologne. Since 1994, has held a seat in the German Bundestag. 1994-98, Spokesperson, Young Group, CDU/CSU parliamentary group; 1998-2005, Spokesperson for human rights and humanitarian assistance, CDU/CSU parliamentary group, Bundestag. 2001-09, chaired the CDU in the Rhine district of Neuss. 2005-08, Legal Counsel to the CDU/CSU parliamentary group; 2006-08, Spokesperson, CDU/CSU parliamentary group in the First Committee of Inquiry; 2009, Minister of State to the Federal Chancellor, with a portfolio comprising the coordination between the Federal Government and the 16 Laender, cutting red tape, and liaising with the Parliament. October 2009 - December 2013, CDU Secretary-General. Since December 2013, Federal Minister of Health.