Johann Michler

Johann Michler is Head of the Laboratory of Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures at Empa, part of the division 200 - Advanced Materials and Surfaces. He is also a lecturer at EPFL, teaching since 2005. His research is centered on understanding the mechanical behavior of materials across different length scales, with particular emphasis on nanostructured and thin film systems.

His research interests include the development of advanced in-situ mechanical testing methodologies using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and Raman spectroscopy. He also investigates novel synthesis techniques such as electrochemical deposition and physical vapor deposition for creating functional metallic and semiconductor materials. His work bridges fundamental mechanics with practical applications in micro- and nanotechnology.

Johann Michler has contributed to over 300 publications and has played a key role in organizing international scientific conferences. He is also a co-founder of two start-up companies, demonstrating translational impact of his research. His work involves close collaboration across disciplines, leveraging techniques in microchemical analysis, nanopatterning, and thin film deposition.

He received his diploma in Materials Science from the University of Erlangen-Nürnberg (1995) and earned his PhD from EPFL (2000). Fluent in German, English, and French, he leads a dynamic research group at Empa focused on innovation in materials mechanics and nanostructures.