Prof. Cristian A. Strassert is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Münster, leading the Strassert Lab focused on Coordination Chemistry and Functional Imaging. His research integrates synthesis, characterization, and application of luminescent materials, with particular emphasis on transition metal complexes (Pt, Re, Zn) for biomedical and optoelectronic applications. Key areas include photophysics, aggregation-induced emission, and hybrid materials for sensing and imaging. Affiliations: CeNTech, CiMIC, SoN Research Centers. Collaborations: Global partnerships with institutions like BAM, University of Bielefeld, Tsinghua University, and Ramon Llull University. Research interests span luminescent probes, nanomaterials, and functional polymers, with over 150 interdisciplinary publications. Notable achievements include the Goldener Brendel Award 2021 from the Chemistry Student Council. Publications emphasize design of phosphorescent Pt(II) complexes for bioimaging, photocytotoxicity studies, and hybrid nanomaterials. His work bridges chemistry with biomedical and materials science, driving innovations in optical sensors and therapeutic agents.
Cornelius Faber is a University Professor in the Department of Radiology at the University of Münster, Germany, where he leads the Experimental Nuclear Magnetic Resonance research group. His work focuses on developing and implementing novel MRI techniques that extend the boundaries of magnetic resonance imaging in terms of spatial and temporal resolution, sensitivity, and specificity for physiological, structural, and molecular changes. He actively participates in the "Cells in Motion" interdisciplinary research initiative at the university. Professor Faber's research spans multiple critical areas in medical imaging and biomedical science. His primary expertise lies in MRI cell tracking , enabling visualization of cellular dynamics in vivo. He has made significant contributions to infection imaging , developing methods to detect and characterize microbial infections using MRI. His work on MR methodology development has advanced quantitative imaging techniques, while his research on multimodal integration in MR and MRI contrast mechanisms has provided deeper insights into molecular and cellular processes. His research bridges physics, engineering, and biomedical applications, with particular relevance to inflammation, cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Analysis of Professor Faber's extensive publication record reveals a clear evolution from fundamental MRI technique development toward increasingly sophisticated applications in disease models. His recent work demonstrates a strong trend toward multimodal imaging approaches that combine MRI with complementary techniques such as mass spectrometry, optical imaging, and PET. This integration creates comprehensive diagnostic platforms that provide both anatomical and molecular information. A notable pattern is the focus on cellular dynamics, particularly immune cell behavior in inflammatory conditions and tumor microenvironments, with applications spanning neuroscience, oncology, and cardiology. Professor Faber leads a multidisciplinary research team of approximately 15 members, including scientists, doctoral students, technicians, and medical students. His laboratory is deeply integrated with the University of Münster's research infrastructure, particularly the Multiscale Imaging Centre. The group's work contributes significantly to advancing preclinical MRI methodologies while maintaining strong clinical relevance, with numerous publications in high-impact journals across medical imaging, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering disciplines.
Prof. Dr. Gil Westmeyer is a Professor of Neurobiological Engineering at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), holding joint appointments at the TUM School of Natural Sciences and TUM School of Medicine and Health. He serves as Director of the Institute for Synthetic Biomedicine at Helmholtz-Zentrum München and leads the Chair of Neurobiological Engineering at TUM. His research program bridges molecular engineering, neuroimaging, and synthetic biology to develop next-generation tools for understanding and manipulating cellular networks. Westmeyer's educational background includes medical and philosophical studies in Munich, doctoral work on the molecular basis of Alzheimer's disease under Professor Christian Haass, clinical training at Harvard Medical School, and postdoctoral research with Professor Alan Jasanoff at MIT. His laboratory focuses on creating genetically encoded molecular sensors and actuators that enable non-invasive imaging and remote control of cellular processes across multiple scales. His research spans three primary domains: molecular sensors for multimodal imaging (from electron microscopy to whole-organism optoacoustics), molecular actuators for spatiotemporal control of cellular processes, and neurobehavioral imaging in freely behaving model organisms. The lab's work integrates synthetic biology, nanotechnology, and advanced imaging techniques to create tools that map dynamic signaling processes and manipulate cellular functions with unprecedented precision. Westmeyer's publication record demonstrates consistent innovation in molecular engineering, with recent work focusing on genetically encoded barcodes for electron microscopy, intron-encoded reporting systems, multiplexed optoacoustic imaging, and magnetically responsive cellular compartments. His publications in high-impact journals like Nature Methods, Cell, and Nature Biotechnology reflect the significance of his contributions to molecular imaging and engineering. ERC Proof of Concept 'inteRNAlizer' (2023) ERC Consolidator Grant 'EMcapsulins' (2019) ERC Starting Grant 'MagnetoGenetics' (2013) Helmholtz Young Investigator's Group (2011) Westmeyer actively mentors students and researchers through multiple teaching positions at TUM, including courses in biological chemistry, genetic machine development (iGEM), mammalian cell technology, and neuro-recording methods. His laboratory develops technologies with clear translational potential for future neurotherapies and regenerative medicine applications, particularly through the creation of imaging-controlled cellular interventions. The lab maintains strong collaborations across disciplines and institutions, with research that contributes to multiple UN Sustainable Development Goals related to health and wellbeing.
Dr. Patrick Vogel is a Habilitation candidate and researcher in the Magnetic Particle Imaging (MPI) group at the University of Würzburg's Faculty of Physics and Astronomy, Department of Experimental Physics V. His work focuses on advancing MPI technology for clinical applications, including imaging safety assessments, interventional procedures, and nanoparticle-based diagnostics. He contributes to the development of portable MPI scanners and hybrid imaging systems, collaborating with the AG Behr research group. His research spans magnetic particle spectroscopy, vascular imaging, and biomaterial characterization. Vogel has pioneered studies on MPI-guided endovascular interventions and the application of MPI in perfusion models. His work bridges physics, biomedical engineering, and clinical practice, with a focus on translating MPI into real-world medical diagnostics and surgery support. Key projects include the design of human-sized MPI scanners, safety evaluations of medical implants, and the use of synthetic tracers like Synomag®. He collaborates with interdisciplinary teams to address challenges in vascular imaging, nanoparticle behavior analysis, and real-time imaging systems.
Prof. Dr. Igor Potemkin is an Associated Researcher at Moscow State University, leading a group focused on theoretical studies and computer simulations of polymer self-organization, particularly in complex architectures like arborescent, comb, and gel-like polymers. His work intersects polymer physics, soft matter, and materials science, with collaborations at the DWI and other institutions. Research emphasizes micelle/gel formation, polyelectrolyte interactions, and applications in drug delivery and biomimetic systems. Education details are not explicitly stated in the text, but his academic trajectory is evident through his extensive publication record and project leadership. Key research interests include microgel behavior, interfacial phenomena, and nanoscale structure-property relationships. Notable projects include studies on amphiphilic microgels, ionic liquids, and gradient copolymers. His research group has explored over 100 publications, focusing on topics like microgel self-assembly, polyelectrolyte complexes, and molecular motor design. Collaborations span institutions worldwide, with a strong emphasis on computational modeling and experimental validation. The team includes postgraduates and students involved in projects such as 'Functional Microgels and Microgel Systems' (SFB-985) and Helmholtz-RSCF initiatives. Scientific contributions include advancements in polymer thin films, nanoparticle-stabilized colloids, and the development of novel biomaterials. His work bridges theoretical predictions with practical applications in nanotechnology and biomedical engineering.
Dr. Wiltrud Lederle serves as a research group leader at the Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging within the Medical Faculty of RWTH Aachen University. She earned her PhD from the University of Hohenheim following doctoral work at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) in Heidelberg, and conducted postdoctoral research at DKFZ from 2003 to 2008 before joining RWTH Aachen University in 2008. She completed her habilitation at the Medical Faculty of RWTH Aachen University in 2019, establishing her qualification for a professorship in the German academic system. Dr. Lederle's research program centers on understanding tumor-microenvironment interactions through advanced imaging techniques. Her laboratory investigates: The influence of the microenvironment on tumor progression and metastasis Mechanisms of tumor angiogenesis and immune responses Stromal activation during tumor development Non-invasive imaging of stromal remodeling in tissue repair and organ inflammation Development of innovative imaging technologies for cancer research She employs multiple imaging modalities including molecular ultrasound, photoacoustic imaging, MRI, and optical techniques to visualize biological processes in real-time. Her work spans multiple disease areas including colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and various liver conditions, with particular emphasis on angiogenesis, immune responses, and stromal interactions. A significant trend in her recent publications involves developing and validating novel imaging biomarkers for monitoring therapeutic responses and investigating combination therapies targeting both tumor cells and their supportive microenvironment. Dr. Lederle leads the research group 'Tumor Progression and Metastasis' at RWTH Aachen University with continuous funding from major German research agencies including the German Research Foundation (DFG) and the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), as well as through industrial partnerships. Her collaborative research program demonstrates strong translational potential, bridging basic science with clinical applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment monitoring.
Dr. Pierre Picchetti is a Junior Research Group Leader and Liebig Fellow at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) 's Institute of Nanotechnology , leading the Cluster-Based Materials research unit focused on Multifunctional Nanomaterials for Healthcare Applications . His work spans advanced nanosensor development, supramolecular chemistry, and targeted drug delivery systems. Institution: Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) Unit: Cluster-Based Materials - Multifunctional Nanomaterials for Healthcare Applications Contact: pierre.picchetti@kit.edu | Phone: +49 721 608-28933 Dr. Picchetti's research integrates Nanotechnology , Supramolecular Chemistry , and Biomedical Engineering to create innovative solutions for food safety , drug delivery , and medical diagnostics . Key methodologies include Surface Enhanced Raman Scattering (SERS) , indicator displacement assays , and stimuli-responsive nanocarriers . Recent publications highlight 2025 breakthroughs in nanosensor design for food contaminants and plant-based detection systems , alongside 2024 advancements in polymersome-encapsulated chemosensors and light-triggered drug release platforms. His SERS-based mycotoxin sensors and cucurbit[7]uril assays demonstrate precision in complex biological environments. Scientific Awards: Liebig Fellow Current projects emphasize biofluid-applicable sensors , gold nanoparticle anticancer therapies , and environmentally responsive nanomaterials , reflecting his commitment to translating nanoscience into real-world applications.
Ioana Slabu, Professor at the Institute for Applied Medical Engineering (RWTH Aachen University), leads advancements in medical nanotechnology. Her work focuses on magnetic nanoparticles for diagnostics and therapy, particularly in MRI visualization of implants, magnetic hyperthermia for cancer treatment, and magnetic particle imaging (MPI) applications. Her research integrates multimodal imaging techniques mathematical modeling of magnetic fields biocompatible material design functionalized nanoparticle surfaces for applications in cardiovascular, pancreatic, and gastrointestinal diseases. Key publication trends include iron oxide nanoparticles for mesh implant tracking , 3D-printed tumor models for magnetic targeting, and millifluidic manufacturing of standardized nanoparticles. She also explores machine learning for nanoparticle synthesis optimization. As thesis advisor, she mentors doctoral candidates in biomedical engineering while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams at RWTH Aachen University's AMET institute, including partnerships with clinicians, physicists, and material scientists. Her leadership extends to developing hybrid stents with magnetic properties for tumor ablation and biodegradable polymer fibers with embedded nanoparticles for controlled drug delivery systems.
Dr. Roger Molto Pallares serves as a junior group leader (equivalent to Assistant Professor) at the Institute for Experimental Molecular Imaging (ExMI) within RWTH Aachen University's Faculty of Medicine, where he directs the "Biohybrid Nanomedical Materials" research group focused on developing bio-inspired nanomaterials for diagnostics and therapeutics since 2021. Education: PhD in Materials Science, University College London (UK), 2017 His research integrates nanomedicine , molecular imaging , and nanotechnology to engineer advanced diagnostic and therapeutic platforms. Key innovations include polymeric microbubbles with controlled microporosity for enhanced ultrasound imaging, gold nanostars for photoacoustic applications, and hybrid contrast agents combining metal phthalocyanines with microbubbles. His work addresses critical challenges in drug delivery precision, multimodal imaging sensitivity, and nanotoxicology assessment through omics approaches, with strong translational emphasis on cancer theranostics. Analysis of his 2020-2024 publications reveals a dominant trend toward multimodal theranostic platforms that merge ultrasound, photoacoustic, and molecular imaging techniques with engineered nanomaterials. The research consistently emphasizes structure-function optimization at the nanoscale—whether through microporosity engineering in microbubbles, surface modification of gold nanostars, or hybrid material design—to simultaneously enhance diagnostic capabilities and therapeutic efficacy while rigorously evaluating biocompatibility. Scientific Awards: Vulcanus in Japan fellowship RWTH JPI Fellowship Umbrella Award JNB Rising Star Award 2025 Dr. Pallares serves on the leadership committee of the Molecular Imaging in Nanotechnology and Theranostics (MINT) Interest Group within the World Molecular Imaging Society (WMIS). His research group operates with significant institutional support, evidenced by his junior group leader appointment and multiple competitive fellowships. Current projects include developing targeted alpha therapy platforms and advancing biohybrid nanomaterials for clinical translation. The "Biohybrid Nanomedical Materials" research group (established 2021) functions within ExMI's advanced imaging infrastructure at University Hospital Aachen. The team combines materials science, molecular biology, and imaging expertise to create next-generation nanoplatforms, with active collaborations spanning Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Northwestern University, and international consortia focused on nanomedicine standardization and safety assessment.
Josbert Metselaar, also known as Bart, is a part-time Associate Professor of Advanced Drug Delivery at the University of Twente since 2012 and a part-time Group Leader at RWTH Aachen University since 2015. He holds a PharmD from Utrecht University and a PhD in Pharmaceutics and Immunology (2003). His research focuses on liposomal and polymeric nanomedicines for inflammation and cancer, particularly hematological and solid tumors. His recent publications highlight advancements in Polymeric micelle formulation Tumor-targeted drug delivery Clinical translation of nanomedicines Immune system interactions with nanoparticles He has received major company awards and secured grants from DRG and BMBF. While no student advisees are listed, his work involves collaborations with institutions like Enceladus Pharmaceuticals BV and RWTH Aachen University.
Prof. Dr. Florian Grüner is Full Professor (W3) of Physics at the University of Hamburg, heading the Accelerator Physics Group within the Faculty of Mathematics, Informatics and Natural Sciences. He is also affiliated with the Center for Free-Electron Laser Science (CFEL) and serves as Principal Investigator in the Cluster of Excellence "Quantum Universe". Education: 1994–2000: Physics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Diplom (with distinction) 2003: Ph.D. in Physics, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (summa cum laude) Research Focus: His research spans two major areas: laser-plasma acceleration and biomedical imaging . The group pioneers techniques for laser-wakefield acceleration and develops novel X-ray fluorescence imaging (XFI) methods for medical applications. Notably, they achieved the first in-vivo immune cell tracking using XFI, overcoming limitations due to Compton scattering in large objects. Awards & Honors: 2023 Innovation Award on Synchrotron Radiation Multiple lecture prizes (2013–2019) for excellence in teaching 2004–2005 DFG Postdoc Scholarship Doctorate and diploma with highest honors Leadership & Service: Since 2019, he serves as Ombudsperson at Universität Hamburg and is a member of the Academic Senate. He previously held roles including Managing Director of the Institute of Experimental Physics (2013–2016) and Deputy Scientific Director of the University College (2013–2014). Collaborations & Funding: His group actively collaborates with the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf and participates in major initiatives like the Extreme Light Infrastructure (ELI) and DFG Transregio TR 18. They welcome students for bachelor’s/master’s theses and doctoral projects in accelerator physics and biomedical imaging.
Academic Profile Prof. Michael Bau is a Professor of Geosciences at Jacobs University Bremen, leading the Resource and Environmental Studies research group since 2003. He holds academic management roles including Chair of the President's Committee on Research (2019) and Faculty Speaker (2014–2017). His research focuses on biogeochemistry of Earth's surface environments, critical metals, and astrobiology. Education 1998 Habilitation (venia legendi) in Geochemistry, Free University Berlin 1991 PhD (Dr. rer. nat.) in Geochemistry, Hahn-Meitner-Institute/Berlin 1988 Diploma in Geology, RWTH Aachen Research Interests Dr. Bau's work examines trace element cycling in marine/terrestrial systems, critical metals for enabling technologies, and the evolution of Earth's biogeochemical cycles. His lab uses cutting-edge techniques to trace rare earth elements (REE) in environments ranging from Arctic glaciers to deep-sea sediments. Key Achievements Recipient of Hawley Medal (2012) for groundbreaking REE studies in hydrothermal veins 2010 Geochemical Society of Japan award for Ce fractionation research in ferromanganese crusts Pioneer in using REE as tracers for anthropogenic contaminants (e.g., gadolinium from MRI contrast agents) Professional Activities Serves on editorial boards of Chemie der Erde and Scientific Reports , and coordinates international projects on critical mineral resources. Active in policy advising for sustainable resource management.
Gerhard Wilde is a Professor at the Institute of Materials Physics, University of Münster, Germany. His research focuses on nanostructured materials and disordered systems, with a strong emphasis on atomic diffusion, grain boundary dynamics, and the mechanical behavior of advanced metallic alloys such as high-entropy alloys and bulk metallic glasses. His primary research interests include Materials Physics , Nanostructured Materials , Bulk Metallic Glasses , High-Entropy Alloys , Atomic Diffusion , and Severe Plastic Deformation . His work combines experimental techniques like transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and tracer diffusion measurements with theoretical modeling to understand fundamental material behaviors at the atomic scale. The most recent articles highlight a strong trend in studying diffusion mechanisms in complex alloys, structural relaxation in metallic glasses, and the development of advanced materials for energy applications. There is a consistent focus on interfacial phenomena, phase transformations, and the impact of non-equilibrium processing on material properties. Editor-in-Chief of the Beilstein Journal of Nanotechnology (since November 2022) Professor Wilde leads an active research group, supervising students and postdoctoral researchers. His work is supported by significant research grants and collaborations, particularly in the fields of diffusion, nanomaterials, and energy materials. He is involved in extensive national and international collaborations, as evidenced by his co-authorship with researchers from various institutions. His research group operates within the Institute of Materials Physics, equipped with advanced facilities for materials synthesis, characterization (including electron microscopy), and physical property measurements. The lab specializes in the preparation and analysis of nanoglasses, severely deformed materials, and high-entropy alloys.
Prof. Marcus Halik is a full professor at the Department of Materials Science and Engineering , Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nürnberg. His research focuses on Nanomaterials for Environmental Remediation , Self-Assembled Monolayers (SAMs) , and Hybrid Photovoltaic Systems . He leads the OMD (Organic Materials and Devices) lab and has pioneered magnetic nanoparticle-based water purification methods. Key Research Areas: Nanoparticle surface engineering for pollutant removal Organic-inorganic heterojunctions in solar cells Advanced gas sensor design using functionalized nanowires Low-voltage organic electronic devices Notable Techniques: Self-assembly of phosphonic acid monolayers Area-selective nanoparticle deposition Magnetic separation systems Molecular dynamics simulations for surface analysis His recent publications highlight magnetic water cleaning agents for PCBs and nanoplastics, ligand engineering for perovskite solar cell stability, and supramolecular antimicrobial coatings . While no explicit scientific awards are listed, his work has been cited over 47,000 times (ResearchGate metrics). Collaborations with leading institutions like University of Tokyo and Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne demonstrate his international impact.
DWI – Leibniz Institute for Interactive Materials, AachenGermany
Xiangyang Shi is a Professor at Donghua University's College of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Biotechnology and holds an Invited Chair in Nanotechnology at the University of Madeira. His primary academic affiliations demonstrate strong international collaboration between Chinese and Portuguese research institutions, with significant contributions to nanomedicine and materials science. His research focuses on dendrimer chemistry and nanomedicinal applications , particularly in cancer diagnosis and therapy. Additional research areas include nanofiber-based technology for bioscaffolding materials in tissue engineering, pharmaceutical applications, and environmental nanotechnology through immobilization of reactive nanoparticles. His work bridges chemistry, materials science, and biomedical engineering with strong translational potential. Analysis of his recent publications (2025) reveals a strong emphasis on combination cancer therapies integrating chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and imaging modalities. Key trends include development of metal-phenolic networks , stimuli-responsive nanogels , and dual-targeting nanovaccines for enhanced tumor treatment. His work increasingly focuses on disrupting tumor microenvironment mechanisms like hypoxia and adenosine pathways while enhancing immune checkpoint blockade. His research has been supported by significant grants including: DENDIMAGE - Development of Novel Dendrimer-Based Nanoparticles for Dual Mode Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Tumors (2013-2015) Self-assembled nanoparticles based on PEG-PLA-dendrimer building blocks for dual gene/drug delivery (2012-2015) These projects were funded by Fundação para a Ciência e a Tecnologia (Portugal). Professor Shi leads research activities centered around dendrimer-based nanoplatforms with strong international collaboration networks. His laboratory focuses on translating fundamental nanomaterial discoveries into therapeutic applications, particularly for cancer treatment and tissue engineering solutions. Current work emphasizes multimodal therapeutic approaches that combine imaging capabilities with targeted treatment modalities.
