معرفی
Prof. Dr. Ralf Zimmermann is a full Professor of Analytical Chemistry at the University of Rostock, where he holds the Chair of Analytical Chemistry and leads the Department of Technical and Analytical Chemistry within the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences. He is also the Head of the Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre (JMSC), a major collaborative initiative between the University of Rostock and the Helmholtz Zentrum München. His research spans instrumental analytical chemistry, environmental analysis, and biomedical applications of mass spectrometry.
His research interests focus on instrumental analytical chemistry, particularly mass spectrometry and photoionization techniques. He investigates complex molecular systems in environmental, biological, and industrial contexts, including aerosols, petroleum, and coffee roasting processes. A key area of his work is the health effects of aerosols, where he uses advanced mass spectrometry to link particle composition with biological impacts. His group actively develops novel ionization methods and analytical workflows for comprehensive molecular analysis.
The key publications reflect a strong trend in high-resolution analytical techniques applied to complex mixtures, especially airborne particulate matter and combustion emissions. His work integrates GCxGC-TOFMS, laser-based ionization, and VUV single-photon ionization to achieve detailed molecular characterization. These studies have significantly contributed to source apportionment, environmental monitoring, and health risk assessment.
- GCxGC Scientific Achievement Award (2023)
- Honorary Doctorate from the University of Eastern Finland (2022)
Prof. Zimmermann actively mentors PhD and Master’s students, with multiple successful doctoral defenses in areas such as petroleum analysis, aerosol characterization, and synthetic cannabinoid profiling. He leads several major research projects including AeroHealth, EU FT-ICR MS, and SAARUS, which involve international collaboration and substantial external funding. His group regularly participates in measurement campaigns and collaborates with partners across Europe.
He leads the Joint Mass Spectrometry Centre (JMSC), a cooperation between the University of Rostock and Helmholtz Zentrum München, which integrates advanced mass spectrometry platforms for environmental and biomedical research. The group hosts regular seminars, short courses, and workshops, including the joint MS seminar and events under the EU FT-ICR MS project, fostering a dynamic research environment.
