Mathias Ropohl

Prof. Dr. Mathias Ropohl is a University Professor for Chemistry Education at the Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, a position he has held since 2017. Previously, he served as a Junior Professor for Chemistry Education at the Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) in Kiel from 2013 to 2017. His academic career is grounded in both rigorous research and practical teaching experience, including prior roles as a secondary school teacher in chemistry and geography.

• Current Affiliation: Professor of Chemistry Education, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen
• Previous Roles: Junior Professor at IPN Kiel; Secondary School Teacher
• Education: Doctorate in Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen (2010); Teaching Certification in Chemistry and Geography

His research focuses on formative assessment in inquiry-based learning, media use in science education, and the optimization of learning opportunities for pre-service and in-service chemistry teachers. He employs empirical and design-based research methods to improve diagnostic practices, feedback mechanisms, and teacher training curricula. His work emphasizes coherence in science instruction and the integration of digital tools in education.

The 15 most recent publications reflect a strong trend in educational diagnostics, teacher feedback, inquiry learning, and curriculum design. Key themes include the use of digital learning ladders, adaptive learning tasks, conceptual strand maps, and strategies for inclusive science education. These works span journals and edited volumes in chemistry education, science teaching, and educational psychology, highlighting interdisciplinary and practical applications.

Scientific and Academic Service Contributions:

• Chair (since 2025) and board member (since 2023) of the Interdisciplinary Center for Educational Research (IZfB)
• Board member of the Center for Teacher Education (ZLB) since 2022
• Member of the Senate Commission for Teaching, Studies and Continuing Education (2021–2022)
• Deputy Chairman of the Examination Board for Chemistry/Biotechnology Teacher Training since 2019
• Member of the Faculty Council of the Faculty of Chemistry since 2018
• Strand Chair at ESERA (2018–2022), Member of NARST International Committee (2020–2022)

Ropohl actively leads and participates in national and international research projects such as CoSMaS, FLaME, FinChen, DECoSTE, PICoSTE, and OER@IPN. These projects focus on improving teacher education, developing formative assessment tools, and enhancing science instruction through coherence and technology. He supervises research teams and collaborates across institutions to bridge research and classroom practice.

He has no explicitly listed PhD or master’s students in the provided text but collaborates extensively with researchers and educators. His leadership in academic service and curriculum development underscores his role as a key figure in German and international science education communities.