Erik Schäffer

Prof. Erik Schäffer is a Professor of Cellular Nanoscience at the Universität Tübingen, leading the Cellular Nanoscience group at the ZMBP (Center for Molecular Biology). His research focuses on understanding molecular machines such as kinesin motors and membrane proteins using advanced microscopy techniques like optical tweezers and light-sheet microscopy. He holds a Dr. rer. nat. from the Universities of Konstanz and Groningen, and a physics background from TU Stuttgart and UMass Amherst.

Research interests include: mechanics of molecular motors, single-molecule force measurements, membrane protein dynamics, and active matter systems. Key projects involve developing high-resolution optical tweezers, studying torque generation in kinesins, and exploring DNA repair mechanisms.

Notable achievements include the 2016 Preis für mutige Wissenschaft award. His group comprises postdocs, PhD students, and M.Sc. researchers working on topics like microtubule dynamics, nanomotor design, and lipid bilayer mechanics. Collaborations span institutions globally, including MPI-CBG Dresden and the University of Pennsylvania.