Professor Thomas Bein is affiliated with the Department of Chemistry at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU) , where he leads the Functional Nanosystems research group. His work focuses on synthesizing and characterizing nanostructured materials with applications in energy, catalysis, and biomedical delivery. Mesoporous nanoparticles for drug delivery Semiconductor nano-morphologies for photovoltaics Photoelectrochemical water splitting Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) Electroactive networks His research emphasizes atomic-scale control of material architectures using self-assembly, hydrogen bonding, and covalent interactions, enabling precise tuning of electronic, optical, and catalytic properties. A review of his recent publications reveals cutting-edge investigations into covalent organic frameworks (COFs), perovskite-inspired solar materials, and functional nanoparticle systems. Key trends include optimizing energy conversion efficiency, enhancing stability in optoelectronic devices, and exploring bio-compatible nanocarriers for targeted therapies. Professor Bein’s group actively contributes to interdisciplinary projects at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and biomedical engineering, with ongoing collaborations in solar energy, sustainable materials, and nanomedicine.
Professor David C. Dunand is a faculty member in the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Northwestern University , where he leads the Dunand Research Group . His work focuses on mechanical metallurgy of advanced metallic materials, including alloys, composites, and foams, with applications in energy-efficient transportation and biomaterials. He also investigates additive manufacturing techniques like laser powder-bed fusion and 3D ink extrusion. Research Interests: Physical and mechanical metallurgy of multiphase metals Additive manufacturing (ink extrusion, selective laser melting) Green/sustainable metal production In situ X-ray tomography for microstructure analysis Metallic foams and scaffolds Thermoelectric materials Recent Publications show expertise in redox cycling stability, precipitation strengthening, and hierarchical microstructures, with applications in batteries, shape-memory alloys, and high-entropy systems. Awards: TMS Fellow (2012) Structural Materials Division Distinguished Scientist/Engineering Award (2008) Fellow, ASM International (2007) Department Teacher of the Year (1998) He has held leadership roles including Co-Director of the Initiative for Sustainability and Energy at Northwestern (2008-2015) and Visiting Professor at École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (2000). The group operates a SISMA MYSINT 100 laser powder bed fusion machine and collaborates extensively.
Prof. Peter Müller-Buschbaum is a Full Professor and Head of the Chair of Functional Materials at the Physics Department of the Technical University of Munich (TUM). He has held this position since April 2018 and also served as Scientific Director of the Research Neutron Source Heinz Maier-Leibnitz (FRM-II) and the Heinz Maier-Leibnitz Center (MLZ) from 2018 to 2023. His leadership extends to multiple roles including Core Member of the Integrated Research Institute Munich Institute of Integrated Materials, Energy and Process Engineering (MEP) since 2021, and Head of the Renewable Energies Network (NRG) at MEP. Full Professor (W3), Head of the Chair of Functional Materials at TUM School of Natural Sciences (since 04/2018) Deputy Editor of "ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces" (since 01/2024) Supervising Professor "Electronics Laboratory" at TUM School of Natural Sciences (since 11/2023) Member of TUM Sustainability Board (since 05/2023) Core Member of MEP Institute (since 10/2021) Head of Renewable Energies Network at MEP (since 10/2021) Prof. Müller-Buschbaum's research spans energy materials for photovoltaics and battery technologies, smart responsive materials that adapt to environmental stimuli, and nanocomposite materials with tailored properties. His group employs advanced scattering techniques to characterize materials at the nanoscale, providing insights into structure-property relationships critical for developing next-generation energy technologies. His extensive publication record demonstrates particular expertise in perovskite solar cells, lithium-ion battery technologies, and polymer-based functional materials, with recent work focusing on improving device stability and efficiency while understanding fundamental degradation mechanisms. His publications reveal a strong emphasis on energy conversion and storage technologies, with particular attention to interfacial engineering in both photovoltaic and battery systems. The research shows sophisticated integration of materials synthesis, advanced characterization, and device engineering to address critical challenges in renewable energy technologies. His work bridges fundamental science with practical applications through collaborations with major international research facilities. Scientific Service and Recognition Member of the Council of the Cluster of Excellence "ORIGINS" (since 01/2019) Spokesperson of the Chemical Physics and Polymer Physics Association of DPG (03/2021-10/2022) Member of the European Spallation Source Scientific Advisory Panel (since 03/2011) German representative at the European Polymer Federation for polymer physics (since 03/2011) Chairman of the Keylab "TUM.solar" in the Bavarian research project "Solar Technologies Go Hybrid" (since 03/2012) Prof. Müller-Buschbaum actively contributes to academic community through editorial work, having served as Associate Editor (2012-2022), Executive Editor (2023), and currently Deputy Editor (2024-present) of "ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces". He maintains strong international collaborations with synchrotron and neutron facilities worldwide, reflecting his expertise in advanced materials characterization techniques essential for cutting-edge materials research.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Stephan Staudacher is the Director of the Institute of Aircraft Propulsion at the University of Stuttgart. His work focuses on aircraft propulsion systems, gas turbine performance, and turbomachinery design. He holds a professorship in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering and Aerospace, leading research in advanced engine technologies, erosion effects, and fault detection algorithms. Research interests include engine reliability, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and experimental validation of propulsion systems. His publications emphasize topics like neural network applications for fault detection, ice crystal icing simulations, and particle transport in additive manufacturing processes. Recent studies highlight the optimization of composite-cycle engines and assessment of mission severity caused by erosion. Key contributions include advancements in engine condition monitoring, transient performance analysis, and the development of Stuttgart University’s Altitude Test Facility (ATF). His work bridges theoretical models with industrial applications, addressing challenges in both civil and military aviation propulsion systems.
Anna C. Balazs is Distinguished Professor and John A. Swanson Chair of Engineering in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh, with an adjunct appointment in Chemistry and visiting professorships at Scripps Research Institute, UT-Austin and Oxford University. In 2025 she receives the €10,000 Gutenberg Research Award from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz (JGU) for her pioneering theoretical work on smart soft materials. She earned an A.B. in Physics from Bryn Mawr College (1975) and a Ph.D. in Materials Science from MIT (1981), followed by post-doctoral research at Brandeis, MIT and UMass. Research interests span theoretical and computational soft-matter physics, focusing on: Statistical-mechanical modelling of polymer blends and composites Self-oscillating and chemo-responsive hydrogels Active matter, enzyme-powered swimmers and self-propelling sheets Self-healing, shape-morphing and bio-inspired materials Computer simulation of colloidal and interfacial phenomena Recent publications (2023-2025) demonstrate a clear trend toward integrating chemistry, fluid mechanics and elasticity to create life-like, autonomous soft machines. Key contributions include: Harnessing enzyme pumps to drive macroscopic sheet locomotion Designing chemically communicating micro-post arrays Creating dissipative materials with programmable, hierarchical 3-D architectures Scientific awards include: Gutenberg Research Award 2025 Polymer Physics Prize, American Physical Society SF Boys-A. Rahman Award, Royal Society of Chemistry Langmuir Lectureship Award, American Chemical Society Election to the U.S. National Academy of Sciences (2021) She serves on the Advisory Board of the DOE-BES Materials Council and on editorial boards for Langmuir , Soft Matter and Polymer Reviews . Her group collaborates closely with experimental teams world-wide, including the DFG-NSF “Confine” partnership with JGU and the CoM2Life Cluster of Excellence initiative.
Jens von Wolfersdorf is a Professor at the University of Stuttgart's Faculty of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering. His research focuses on advanced thermal management systems for high-speed aerospace applications, particularly in the areas of heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and combustion. He specializes in experimental and numerical methods for analyzing complex flows in rotating and stationary cooling channels, transpiration cooling for rocket engines, and turbulence modeling. His work integrates cutting-edge techniques such as thermochromic liquid crystal (TLC) measurements, particle image velocimetry (PIV), and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to validate novel cooling configurations. Key projects include the COOREFLEX-Turbo initiative and contributions to the European ATLLAS-II program for high-speed vehicle materials. Recent studies emphasize rotational heat transfer effects in two-pass cooling channels, additive manufacturing of ribbed cooling structures, and validation of coupled FEM-CFD frameworks. His research addresses challenges in aerospace thermal protection, turbine blade cooling, and scramjet combustor efficiency. Publications span over 15 years, with a focus on transient heat transfer, flow visualization, and material characterization for transpiration-cooled systems. Collaborations involve experimental facilities for high-speed flows and advanced thermal measurement systems.
Dr. Axel Lubk is a Group Leader at the Institute for Solid State Research (IFW Dresden) , specializing in advanced electron microscopy techniques for materials science. His research spans four key areas: (1) TEM method development (high-resolution imaging, tomography, holography, and in-situ techniques), (2) charge particle optics and scattering theory , (3) magnetic nanotextures (domain walls, skyrmions), and (4) plasmonics (mode hybridization in heterogeneous structures and semiconductor heterostructures). Dr. Lubk’s work focuses on three-dimensional magnetic texture analysis using electron holography and tomography, particularly in systems like skyrmion tubes , FeGe , and Cr2O3 thin films . He has pioneered techniques for vector-field electron tomography and phase retrieval under varying boundary conditions, advancing nanoscale magnetic imaging. His recent studies include plasmonic properties in AgAu nanosphere chains , thermoelectric multilayer systems , and topological insulators like NiRh2Sb and TaTMTe4 . Dr. Lubk has published extensively in high-impact journals such as Nature Communications and Advanced Materials , with a focus on TEM instrumentation and quantitative analysis . He frequently presents at international conferences like the International Microscopy Congress and European School of Magnetism , emphasizing applications in spintronics , quantum materials , and nanostructured systems . His contributions to holographic vector-field electron tomography and machine learning for spectrum-image data have set new standards in electron microscopy.
Dr. Barak Ratzker is a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials , affiliated with the Microstructure Physics and Alloy Design department. His work focuses on the sustainable synthesis of materials, particularly through hydrogen-based reduction pathways and advanced sintering techniques like spark plasma sintering (SPS) and hot isostatic pressing (HIP). His research spans transparent ceramics, MAX/MXene phases, and alloy design. Key research areas include: Hydrogen reduction of oxides for sustainable metallurgy Pressure-assisted sintering (SPS/HIP) of transparent ceramics Microstructure engineering in refractory materials Development of MXene-based composites for electronics Thermodynamic and kinetic analysis of solid-state reactions His recent publications highlight trends in: Environmentally conscious processing of ferromanganese oxides High-pressure synthesis of MAX phases and MXenes Optimization of optical and mechanical properties in ceramics Dynamic deformation behavior under extreme conditions Biological material interactions (e.g., crusticul-chitin systems)
Eva Blasco is an Associated Group Leader at the Functional Polymeric Materials Research Unit under the Institute of Nanotechnology at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), with affiliations to the University of Heidelberg. Her work bridges 3D printing , polymer chemistry , and nanophotonics , focusing on light-driven material design. Her research centers on photochemically activated 3D printing inks , light-stabilized dynamic materials , and multi-photon lithography . She explores how two-color light absorption , alkoxyamine chemistry , and visible light post-processing enable adaptable microstructures. Key trends include 4D printing , biodegradable inks , and temperature/light-responsive systems . Blasco's publications highlight collaborations with institutions like KIT, University of Heidelberg, and international teams. Her work spans photonic metamaterials , bio-inspired 3D scaffolds , and subtractive laser lithography , often involving interdisciplinary applications of light in material science.
Thomas Fuhrmann-Lieker serves as Associate Professor in the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences at the University of Kassel, where he leads the Physical Chemistry of Nanomaterials research group. His laboratory is located at Heinrich-Plett-Str. 40, 34132 Kassel in Space IBC, room 3111, with contact information th.fuhrmann@uni-kassel.de and +49 561 804-4720. He maintains an active research program with multiple PhD students, postdoctoral researchers, and specialized projects across nanomaterials science. Professor Fuhrmann-Lieker's research focuses on self-organization and photonics of soft matter , applying physicochemical principles to create optical functions in soft materials. His work spans two primary domains: organic optoelectronic materials and hybrid biological materials . In organic optoelectronics, his group develops molecular glasses for vacuum vapor deposition, with expertise in spiro-type compounds for organic lasing. Current projects investigate random lasers generated from mechanically stressed films that form surface corrugations (wrinkles), achieving stimulated emission even in everyday materials like copy paper. His team also explores 3D-nanofabrication using azo materials responsive to polarized light, creating complex structures from flat layer systems. In biological materials research, Professor Fuhrmann-Lieker studies diatoms (single-celled algae with ornamental silica cell walls) as natural photonic crystals. His work examines biomineralization processes, particularly the role of highly phosphorylated proteins in silica formation, and explores connections between diatom reproduction mechanisms and pattern formation within the "Biological clocks" graduate program. Additional research investigates renewable biopolymers for biomedical applications including drug delivery systems and bone tissue regeneration. His laboratory maintains active projects in five specialized areas: Renewable Biopolymers, Photolithography, Biomineralization Processes, Wrinkled Amorphous Films, and Biological Clocks. Analysis of Professor Fuhrmann-Lieker's publication record reveals a consistent trajectory in molecular photonics and biomineralization research. His most recent work (2019-2020) focuses on random lasing in wrinkled organic glasses and paper-based photonics, demonstrating practical applications of fundamental principles. Earlier publications establish his pioneering work on diatoms as photonic crystals (2004) and molecular glasses for optoelectronic applications (1999-2015). The research shows strong interdisciplinary connections between chemistry, physics, biology, and materials science, with applications spanning optoelectronics to biomedical engineering. Professor Fuhrmann-Lieker supervises a diverse research team including postdoctoral researcher Dr. Marilia Horn (biopolymers and nanopharmacy), PhD students Lukas Wolfram (wrinkled amorphous films), Jonas Ziebarth (biological clocks), Benedikt Mohr (biomineralization processes), Sekvan Bagatur (3D-nanofabrication), and visiting PhD student Eduardo Milan (renewable resources). His former PhD students include Nicolai Hoinka (random lasers in paper) and Michael Grimann (phase separation in molecular glasses, 2018). The research group participates in interdisciplinary initiatives including the PhosMOrg consortium for biomimetic approaches to silica formation.
Dr. Florian Mathies is a researcher specializing in material science and optoelectronics, focusing on perovskite and organic materials for photovoltaic and light-emitting devices. His work emphasizes inkjet printing technology for creating high-quality thin films and optimizing manufacturing processes. Collaborating with international teams, he has contributed to advancements in perovskite solar cells and LEDs, particularly in crystallization dynamics, gas flow-assisted drying, and environmental sustainability of materials. His research bridges fundamental chemistry with applied engineering, addressing challenges in energy efficiency and scalable production. Research interests include perovskite solar cell optimization, ink formulation for additive manufacturing, and in-situ spectroscopic analysis of material formation processes. He has pioneered gas flow-assisted vacuum drying techniques and explored novel material compositions like triple-cation perovskites. Key contributions include a FAIR-compliant open-access database for perovskite solar cells and studies on SnO₂ electron transport layers. Publications span 2013 to 2025, with over 30 peer-reviewed articles in journals like Nature Energy , ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces , and Energy Technology . His work frequently addresses scalability, cost reduction, and environmental impact in photovoltaic systems.
Prof. Dr. Stephen Schrettl holds a professorship in the TUM School of Life Sciences at Technische Universität München , focusing on functional materials for food packaging . His research emphasizes mechanochromic materials, polymer chemistry, and supramolecular systems. Key areas include strain-sensing polymers, self-healing materials, and adaptive nanocomposites. His work spans interdisciplinary topics like mechanoresponsive polymers , smart coatings , and nanomaterial fabrication . Recent studies highlight advancements in mechanochromic inclusions, reversible crosslinking mechanisms, and microphase-separated metallosupramolecular polymers. He has contributed to applications in automotive materials, biomedical devices, and environmental sensors. Publications from 2024–2020 showcase innovations in straining-induced fluorescence , liquid crystal-driven nanoparticle assembly , and platinum nanocomposite synthesis . His research bridges fundamental polymer science with industrial applications, particularly in materials that integrate mechanical and optical functionalities.
Professor Jane Jiang is a distinguished academic at the University of Huddersfield , affiliated with the School of Computing and Engineering and the Department of Engineering . She specializes in surface metrology, precision engineering, and advanced manufacturing technologies. Her work focuses on optimizing measurement techniques for additive manufacturing, X-ray computed tomography, and optical systems. Research Interests Her research spans surface texture analysis , 3D vision systems , and metrology for smart manufacturing . She develops novel methods for characterizing complex surfaces using techniques like phase measuring deflectometry and chromatic confocal sensors. Her contributions bridge engineering and materials science, emphasizing practical applications in aerospace, biomedical, and industrial sectors. Recent Contributions Her 2025 work includes advancements in freeform optics design, vibration-resistant microscopy, and neural network-based surface characterization. Her studies on XCT measurement for additive manufacturing parts address critical challenges in precision and data analysis. Affiliations & Projects She leads the Centre for Precision Technologies and actively collaborates on EU-funded projects. She organized the 1st International Conference on Metrology and Standard (2024) and contributes to interdisciplinary initiatives in bio-engineering and advanced materials. Grants & Teams Her team includes researchers like Shan Lou and Paul Scott , focusing on metrology for medical implants and aerospace components. She supervises PhD students exploring AI-driven surface specification and manufacturing process optimization.
Dr. Ji-Guang Zhang is a Laboratory Fellow at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) in the Energy Processes & Materials Division. He holds a PhD in experimental condensed matter physics from the University of Kentucky, an MS in theoretical physics from Dalian University of Technology, and a BS in applied physics from the same institution. As a principal investigator for the Department of Energy's Vehicle Technologies Office, he leads research on advanced energy storage systems. His research focuses on developing next-generation battery technologies, including lithium-metal batteries, lithium-ion batteries, solid-state electrolytes, and thin-film batteries. Key areas involve electrolyte design (e.g., localized high-concentration electrolytes), interface engineering, and materials optimization for enhanced stability and performance under extreme conditions. His work bridges electrochemistry, materials science, and solid-state physics to address fundamental and applied challenges in energy storage. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on electrolyte innovation, lithium metal anode stabilization, and high-voltage battery systems. Trends include novel electrolyte formulations (e.g., fluorinated ethers), advanced characterization techniques (cryo-TEM), and 3D electrode architectures to suppress dendrite growth and extend battery lifespan. Scientific Awards: National Innovator of the Year Award (DOE/NAI, 2024) Fellow, National Academy of Inventors (2024) Distinguished Achievement Award (Vehicle Technologies Office, 2022) R&D 100 Awards (2010, 2012) Top 1% Highly Cited Researcher (Clarivate, multiple years) Dr. Zhang holds 41 U.S. patents and has secured DOE grants for lithium battery research. He advises postdoctoral researchers and collaborators at PNNL’s battery laboratories, focusing on projects such as anode-free configurations and high-energy-density systems. His team specializes in materials synthesis, in situ diagnostics, and battery prototyping.
Hongmin Zhu is a Professor at the Department of Frontier Metallurgical Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University. His research focuses on sustainable metallurgical processes using molten salt electrolysis for metal extraction and recycling. Research Interests Dr. Zhu specializes in electrochemical approaches for Aluminum scrap upcycling Titanium extraction from ores Intermetallic compound synthesis Rare earth metal recovery His work bridges fundamental electrochemistry with industrial-scale sustainable material processing. Article Trends Recent publications analyze molten salt electrolysis for: High-purity aluminum production Titanium alloy powder synthesis Carbon film morphology control Rare earth chloride formation Stainless steel recycling efficiency These studies emphasize cost reduction and environmental impact through innovative metallurgical engineering.
