Ruth Cardinaels

Ruth Cardinaels is a part-time Full Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e) and a Professor in Chemical Engineering at KU Leuven. She is affiliated with the Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS) and leads research in the Processing and Performance group.

Her academic background includes a PhD and Master's in Chemical Engineering from KU Leuven, both completed Summa Cum Laude. She conducted postdoctoral research at Princeton University and holds teaching credentials in natural sciences.

Cardinaels' research focuses on designing multiphasic functional materials through microstructure engineering. She specializes in:

• Rheological and dielectric characterization of polymers, nanocomposites, and food materials
• In-situ flow analysis using rheo-optical techniques
• Development of experimental methods for real-time process monitoring

Her publications demonstrate consistent focus on soft matter dynamics, with recent work emphasizing additive manufacturing processes and nanomaterial interfaces. Research frequently intersects polymer physics, fluid mechanics, and material innovation.

Awards & Grants:

• ERC Starting Grant (2020)
• Mercator Fellowship, German Research Foundation (2022)
• Distinguished Young Rheologist Award (2015)

She currently teaches Rheology and mentors researchers in the Processing and Performance laboratory, which develops advanced characterization techniques for complex fluids.