Max Planck Institute for Sustainable MaterialsGermany
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.
Marc Hodes is Professor in Mechanical Engineering and Mathematics at Tufts University. With a PhD from MIT, his research focuses on heat transfer phenomena with applications in electronics cooling, supercritical fluids, and thermoelectric systems. He directs the graduate program in Mechanical Engineering. Education: BS, University of Pittsburgh (1990) MS, University of Minnesota (1994) PhD, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1998) Research Areas: Thermal management of electronics through microchannel cooling and liquid metal technologies; Apparent slip phenomena in microstructured surfaces; Mass transfer in supercritical CO 2 systems for aerogel processing; Thermoelectric module optimization for precision temperature control. Awards & Honors: NSF REU Fellowship (1989) E.T.S. Walton Visitorship Award Best Associate Editor, ASME Journal of Heat Transfer (2023) Research Leadership: Principal investigator on multiple NSF grants including projects on aerogel manufacturing, dropwise condensation, and analysis of convection in slip flows. Industry collaborations include Google, DARPA, and Bell Labs.
Prof. Dr. Sven Höfling is the Head of Chair and leader of the '2D Materials' Group at the Department of Technical Physics, University of Würzburg. His research focuses on semiconductor nanostructures, photonic systems, and quantum materials, with expertise in low-dimensional systems and light-matter interactions. He leads projects in the Cluster of Excellence ct.qmat and collaborates on EU, DFG, and industry-funded initiatives in quantum technology and nanophotonics. Affiliations: Chair of Technical Physics, University of Würzburg Address: Am Hubland, P1 Building (Room AU26), 97074 Würzburg, Germany Research highlights include topological polariton lasers, quantum dot photonics, and mid-infrared optoelectronics. His work spans experimental physics with strong ties to theoretical models, emphasizing applications in quantum computing and optoelectronic devices. Recent advances include room-temperature polariton lasers and strain-tunable single-photon sources. Key projects include the Würzburg-Wroclaw Nanophotonics Center and collaborations with KAIST-JMU on quantum technology. His lab employs advanced fabrication techniques like circular Bragg gratings and resonant tunneling diodes.
Prof. Dr. Uli Lemmer is a Professor at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (ETIT) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). His research focuses on optoelectronics, thermoelectric materials, and printed electronics, with a strong emphasis on energy harvesting, nanotechnology, and photonics. He leads the Lichttechnisches Institut (LTI) and is affiliated with the Institute of Applied Physics. His work spans innovations in laser systems, flexible electronics, and bio-inspired materials. Office: Building 30.34, Room 223; Phone: +49 721 608-42530; Email: uli.lemmer@kit.edu. Research interests include the development of advanced materials for solar cells, thermoelectric generators, and sensor technologies. He pioneers methods like aerosol-jet printing and inkjet printing for scalable production of electronic devices. His group explores biomimetic structures (e.g., snake scale nanopores) and terahertz systems, pushing boundaries in both fundamental science and applied engineering. Recent publications highlight breakthroughs in printed thermoelectric modules, perovskite-based photovoltaics, and high-frequency antennas. His work integrates cutting-edge fabrication techniques with material science to address challenges in renewable energy, sensor networks, and flexible electronics. Prof. Lemmer collaborates internationally on projects like EU-funded energy initiatives and partners with industry for technology transfer. His lab specializes in additive manufacturing, optical systems, and nanoscale device engineering, aiming to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial applications.
Professor Jana Zaumseil is a distinguished academic at Heidelberg University, holding the position of Professor for Applied Physical Chemistry at the Faculty of Chemistry and Earth Sciences since 2014. She also maintains a co-opted position with the Faculty of Physics and Astronomy since 2016. Currently serving as Executive Director of the Institute for Physical Chemistry and Spokesperson for the DFG Research Training Group GRK 2948, she leads the Zaumseil research group (also known as the Nanomaterials for Optoelectronics group) at Heidelberg University's Institute for Physical Chemistry. Her educational background includes a PhD in Physics from the University of Cambridge (2003-2007) with a Gates Cambridge Trust Scholarship, and a Diplom (equivalent to M.Sc.) in Chemistry from the University of Leipzig (1997-2022). Prior to her position at Heidelberg, she served as Professor for Nanoelectronics at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (2009-2014), and completed postdoctoral work at Argonne National Laboratory (2007-2009) following an internship at Bell Laboratories (2002-2003). Zaumseil's research program focuses on the optical and electronic properties of carbon-based nanomaterials, particularly single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and organic semiconductors. Her group specializes in processing, functionalization, characterization and application of these unconventional semiconductors for optoelectronic devices and sensors. They investigate charge transport and light-matter interaction using a wide range of experimental techniques including synthesis, optical spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, device fabrication, and electrical/optical device characterization. Their work bridges fundamental understanding with potential applications in sensing, imaging, circuits, and energy conversion. Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong trend toward defect engineering in carbon nanotubes, particularly creating and optimizing luminescent sp 3 defects for near-infrared applications. Her research increasingly integrates fundamental studies of charge transport with practical device applications, especially in neuromorphic computing, biosensors, and thermoelectrics. The interdisciplinary nature of her work is evident in the combination of chemistry, physics, and materials science approaches across her publication record. Dan Maydan Prize for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (2024) Jahrespreis der Universität Heidelberg (2023) ERC Consolidator Grant (2019) ERC Starting Grant (2012) Alfried-Krupp-Award for Young University Professors (2010) Professor Zaumseil has secured substantial research funding including multiple ERC grants and leads several major collaborative projects such as the ERC Advanced Grant SCALE-NT, Collaborative Research Center SFB 1249, Cluster of Excellence 3D Matter Made to Order, and Research Training Group GRK 2948. She has mentored numerous doctoral and master's students, with her group recently receiving recognition including a Student Poster Presentation Award for Niklas Herrmann. As Dean of the Faculty of Chemistry and Earth Science (2019-2021) and current Vice Dean (2021-), she has played significant leadership roles within the university structure. The Zaumseil research group operates within Heidelberg University's Institute for Physical Chemistry, utilizing advanced facilities for nanomaterial synthesis, optical spectroscopy, and device characterization. The group participates in several major collaborative initiatives including the Cluster of Excellence 3D Matter Made to Order and the Collaborative Research Center SFB 1249, reflecting its integration within Heidelberg's broader research ecosystem focused on molecular systems and materials science.
Prof. Dr. Jürgen König is a Professor at the University of Duisburg-Essen , contributing to projects within the Collaborative Research Centre 1242. His research focuses on Charge Carrier Dynamics in Nanostructures (Project A02) and Unifying Theoretical Description of Relaxation in Electron Systems (Project B07). Contact details include email: koenig@thp.uni-due.de . Research interests span Condensed Matter Physics , Quantum Transport , Nanostructures , and Electron Dynamics . His work often employs theoretical modeling of quantum systems, with recent publications analyzing phase transitions in 2D Ising systems Floquet engineering in superconductors nonlocal thermoelectric correlations Lee-Yang zero analysis of transport . Articles from 2017-2024 highlight expertise in quantum dot systems , spin dynamics , surface physics , and full counting statistics .
Prof. Dr. Nadine Buczek serves as Professor of Renewable Energies, Nanotechnology and Photonics at the Department of Applied Natural Sciences, Lübeck University of Applied Sciences (TH Lübeck), a position she has held since 2017. She leads the Energy Materials Laboratory and maintains active affiliations with the Climate and Environmental Protection Group, Materials for Storage and Renewable Energy Systems, and Photovoltaics Group. Her research centers on physical principles of renewable energy systems and photonics, with core expertise in solar technology, thermoelectrics, and nanoscale material engineering. She investigates spin wave phenomena in disordered magnetic materials and develops advanced fabrication techniques for silicon nanowires and superlattices using metal-assisted chemical etching, with applications in sustainable energy conversion and storage. Analysis of her 15 most recent publications (2012-2022) reveals consistent focus on condensed matter physics and nanomaterial engineering. Key trends include theoretical modeling of spin dynamics in alloys, structural characterization of etched semiconductor nanostructures, and optimization of nanofabrication processes for renewable energy applications. Her work bridges experimental nanotechnology with computational physics, primarily targeting semiconductor-based energy solutions. The Energy Materials Laboratory under her direction drives interdisciplinary research in photovoltaics and thermoelectric materials, collaborating closely with the Materials for Storage and Renewable Energy Systems group. Current projects emphasize scalable nanofabrication methods and fundamental studies of charge transport in nanostructured materials to advance next-generation renewable energy technologies.
Prof. Anna Böhmer is a Professor of Experimental Physics (Solid State Physics) at Ruhr University Bochum. Her research focuses on quantum materials, particularly correlated electron systems, superconductivity, and nematicity. She holds a double diploma from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and École Polytechnique (France), and earned her PhD (summa cum laude) at KIT. Previously, she led the Helmholtz Young Investigators Group on strain-tuning correlated electronic phases at KIT and worked as a postdoc at Ames Laboratory, USA. Her work investigates electronic phases, magnetic orders, and their interplay with superconductivity using advanced experimental techniques. Education: Abitur (2005, Göttingen), Double diploma in Physics (KIT & École Polytechnique, 2011), PhD (KIT, 2014). Her research explores phase transitions in quantum materials, emphasizing iron-based superconductors and strain effects. Key topics include nematicity, charge density waves, and quantum criticality. Recent studies address thermoelectric efficiency near phase transitions and novel experimental methodologies for crystal growth. Scientific awards include her 'summa cum laude' doctoral distinction. Her research group actively explores material synthesis, phase diagrams, and electronic phenomena, with a focus on strain-induced phase tuning. Current projects investigate superconductor energy-gap symmetry and the role of nematicity in magnetic fluctuations.
Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials ResearchGermany
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.
Marcel Mayor is a Full Professor of Chemistry at the University of Basel and Research Unit Chair at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology's Institute of Nanotechnology. He leads the Synthetic Chemistry research unit, focusing on designing functional molecules for nanotechnology applications. His interdisciplinary work bridges synthetic chemistry, molecular electronics, and nanomaterials science. Mayor studied at the University of Bern (Diploma 1991, PhD 1995) and conducted postdoctoral research with Jean-Marie Lehn at Université Louis Pasteur. He became Maître de Conférence at Collège de France (1997-1998) before joining Forschungszentrum Karlsruhe (now KIT) in 1998. His research explores: Molecular electronics and single-molecule devices Carbon-based nanostructures and functional molecules Supramolecular systems for nanotechnology applications Advanced materials for optoelectronics and sensing Recent publications demonstrate innovations in molecular heat engines, single-molecule junctions, bio-conjugation chemistry, and stimuli-responsive materials. Research consistently integrates synthesis, nanofabrication, and physical characterization. Awards: Erwin Schrödinger Award (2004) for Molecules for future Nanoelectronics He directs laboratories at both the University of Basel and KIT, leading interdisciplinary teams in synthetic chemistry, molecular device fabrication, and nanoscale characterization. Current work focuses on quantum interference in molecular wires and chiral nanomaterials.
Max Planck Institute for Sustainable MaterialsGermany
Claudia Felser is a Professor and Director at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids , focusing on the design and multifunctional properties of Heusler compounds. Her work bridges computational materials science and experimental synthesis to create materials with tailored electronic, magnetic, and thermoelectric characteristics. Heusler compounds (over 1000 known members) Applications: thermoelectrics, topological insulators, magnetocaloric materials Approach: periodic table-based "Lego box" design and inverse design Recent publications highlight her exploration of electronic band structures and multifunctional properties in these materials. Her research has implications for sustainable energy technologies and quantum computing. The Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids in Dresden, Germany, serves as the hub for her interdisciplinary work, combining theory with experimental validation to discover new Heusler materials.
Dr. Mirko Nitschke is a senior researcher at the Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden (IPF), affiliated with the Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials Dresden. He has been instrumental in advancing polymer biomaterials science since joining the institute in 1996, focusing on plasma-based surface engineering and biocompatible material development for medical applications. His academic foundation includes: Graduate studies (1992-1996) at Chemnitz University of Technology, where he investigated FTIR Spectroscopic Investigation of Plasma Modified Polymer Surfaces Physics undergraduate degree (1987-1992) from Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena with thesis on Computer Simulation of Ion Trajectories in Solids Nitschke's research centers on plasma surface functionalization and polymer diagnostics to engineer biocompatible materials. His work bridges fundamental surface science with clinical applications, particularly in vascular stents, nerve regeneration, and corneal tissue engineering. Key innovations include thermo-responsive cell carriers and bioactive hydrogel coatings that respond to physiological cues. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a strong trajectory in advanced biomaterials characterization using ToF-SIMS and plasma techniques. His work increasingly integrates machine learning for spectral analysis while maintaining focus on medical device applications—particularly in cardiovascular and ophthalmic implants where surface-biology interactions dictate clinical success. As a core member of the Polymer Biomaterials Science Division, Nitschke collaborates extensively with clinical partners through the Max Bergmann Center's university-linked infrastructure. His laboratory specializes in plasma modification systems and surface analytics for next-generation biomaterials development.
Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Lippmann is a Senior Scientist at the Institute of Process Engineering and Environmental Technology, Chair of Hydrogen and Nuclear Energy at Technical University of Dresden. He has maintained continuous affiliation with TU Dresden since 1974, progressing from student to professorial status, with his current role beginning in 2021 after decades as Scientific Staff member. From 2017-2020, he served as Substitute Chair for Prof. Antonio Hurtado during Hurtado's tenure as Vice-Rector for University Development. His academic journey includes: 1974-1978: Studies of energy technology at Technical University of Dresden 1978-1983: Scientific assistant at Chair of Nuclear Energy Technology 1984: PhD on reactor containment stress analysis during cooling loss scenarios 1989: Post-doctoral thesis on pressurized-water reactor containment stress Lippmann's research bridges nuclear engineering with hydrogen technologies through innovative laser-based applications. His work spans reactor safety analysis, high-temperature ceramic materials, and nuclear-hydrogen system integration. He has pioneered laser joining techniques for silicon carbide ceramics in nuclear applications, developed laser decontamination systems for nuclear decommissioning, and conducted safety analyses of hydrogen systems coupled with nuclear power plants. His research integrates fundamental materials science with practical engineering solutions for next-generation energy systems. Analysis of his recent publications reveals three dominant research thrusts: nuclear-hydrogen integration (particularly PEM electrolysis coupled with nuclear plants), laser-based nuclear technologies (decontamination and ceramic joining), and advanced safety analysis of energy systems. His work demonstrates increasing focus on cross-sector energy integration while maintaining strong foundations in nuclear materials and safety engineering. Lippmann leads multiple significant research initiatives including TE-Cer (ceramic composites for thermo-electrical systems), F-Bridge (GEN IV fuel design), MANOLA (laser ablation systems), eJoin and CeraJoin (ceramic joining technologies), DELTA (integrated electrolyzer-hydrocarbon systems), LaDECO (laser decontamination), TE-K-SYSTEM (thermoelectric modules), and SYNKOPE-flex (energy carrier coupling). His laboratory at George-Bähr-Straße 3b in Dresden houses specialized equipment for laser processing, materials characterization, and thermal testing of nuclear components.
Heike Riel is a Rudolf Diesel Industry Fellow at the Technical University of Munich's Institute for Advanced Study (TUM-IAS), affiliated with IBM Research-Zurich. She leads the Materials Integration & Nanoscale Devices (MIND) group, focusing on III-V semiconductors, molecular electronics, and energy-efficient nanoelectronics. Her academic career includes a PhD from the University of Bayreuth (2003) and an MBA from Henley Business School (2011). Riel’s research bridges materials science and device engineering, emphasizing nanoscale integration and energy efficiency. **Research Interests:** She pioneers novel materials and device architectures for next-generation electronics, including steep-slope transistors and nanowire-based systems. Her work addresses challenges in semiconductor heterostructures, single-molecule junctions, and thermal management at the nanoscale. **Awards & Recognition:** Riel is an IBM Fellow (highest technical honor) and Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences member. Her innovations in nanowire devices and organic light-emitting diodes have earned global acclaim, including the MIT TR100 Young Innovator award (2003). **Key Contributions:** Her publications highlight breakthroughs in nanowire integration on silicon, tunable bandgap transitions, and molecular-scale electrical analysis. These advances underpin emerging technologies in energy-efficient computing and optoelectronics.
Dr. Uwe Pelz is a Researcher at the Chair of Microsystem Construction within the Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK) at the University of Freiburg. He serves as a Responsible Investigator for projects in the livMatS (Living, Adaptive and Energy-autonomous Materials Systems) cluster, focusing on thermoelectric energy harvesting and microsystem technologies. His work includes developing advanced materials for energy systems and microfabrication processes using printed circuit board (PCB) technologies. Key research areas include thermoelectric materials, 3D printing of phase change materials, and micro-thermoelectric generator (μTEG) fabrication. Pelz has contributed to projects like ThermoMetaS (thermoelectric metamaterial surfaces) and ThermoBatS (thermoelectric battery systems), funded by the DFG (German Research Foundation). His publications span topics such as paraffin-based photoresins for additive manufacturing, PCB-integrated micro-TEGs, and nano-scale material dispersions for energy harvesting. Pelz is actively involved in academic activities through livMatS, including organizing colloquia and contributing to outreach programs like IDEASfactory@FIT. His interdisciplinary approach bridges materials science, microengineering, and sustainable energy solutions.
