Matthias Wessling

Prof. Matthias Wessling is the current Vice-Rector for Translation and Transfer at RWTH Aachen University (since 2024). He holds the Chair of Chemical Process Engineering and has served in various leadership roles, including Vice-Rector for Research and Structure (2018–2024) and Vice Dean at the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering (2014–2018). His academic career spans professorships at RWTH Aachen, the University of Twente (Netherlands), and visiting roles at Stanford University. A renowned expert in membrane technology and electrochemical processes, he leads initiatives in energy, sustainability, and interdisciplinary research.

Educations:

• Doctorate (Dr.-Ing) in Membrane Technology, University of Twente (1994)
• Diplom in Chemical Engineering, TU Dortmund University and University of Cincinnati (1989)

Research Focus: Prof. Wessling specializes in membrane science, electrochemical systems, and process engineering. His work addresses challenges in CO2 conversion, water treatment, and energy-efficient separation technologies. Recent efforts include developing advanced gas diffusion electrodes, scalable electrochemical reactors, and sustainable material solutions.

Awards & Recognition:

• 2019 Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize
• 2016 ERC Advanced Grant (ConFluReM)
• 2010 Alexander von Humboldt Professorship

Grants & Projects: He spearheads major initiatives like the DFG Cluster of Excellence "Tailor-Made Fuels from Biomass" and collaborates on EU projects. His labs focus on translating research into industrial applications through RWTH’s infrastructure networks.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Chair of Chemical Process Engineering at RWTH, engaged in cutting-edge projects on membrane distillation, electro-Fenton processes, and additive manufacturing of porous materials.