Klaus Kern

Prof. Klaus Kern is Director and Scientific Member at the Max-Planck-Institute for Solid State Research (Stuttgart, Germany) and Professor of Physics at EPFL (Switzerland). He also holds an honorary professorship at the University of Konstanz. His research focuses on nanoscale science, quantum technology, and atomic-scale microscopy. With a chemistry PhD from the University of Bonn and an honorary doctorate from Aalborg University, he has pioneered advancements in scanning tunneling microscopy (STM), molecular assemblies, and quantum phenomena. Over his career, he has supervised 100 PhD students and 60 postdocs, many of whom hold academic positions globally. His work spans over 700 publications, earning him prestigious awards like the Leibniz Prize (2008) and Van’t Hoff Prize (2016).

Research highlights include imaging glycans at the single-molecule level, probing electron dynamics in quantum systems, and developing bio-inspired nanocatalysts. His labs explore interfaces between physics, chemistry, and biology, aiming to control material properties at the atomic scale. Collaborations extend to institutions like Bell Labs and the University of Madrid, reflecting his interdisciplinary impact.

• Education: PhD in Chemistry (University of Bonn), Honorary Doctorate (Aalborg University)
• Awards: Gottfried-Wilhelm-Leibniz Prize (2008), Van’t Hoff Prize (2016)
• Key Themes: Nanoscale engineering, quantum control, surface science

Publications emphasize real-time imaging of atomic motion, plasmonic cavities, and molecular magnetism. His team’s STM innovations enable submolecular resolution, revolutionizing studies of biomolecules and quantum systems.