Professor Thomas Bein is affiliated with the Department of Chemistry at Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU) , where he leads the Functional Nanosystems research group. His work focuses on synthesizing and characterizing nanostructured materials with applications in energy, catalysis, and biomedical delivery. Mesoporous nanoparticles for drug delivery Semiconductor nano-morphologies for photovoltaics Photoelectrochemical water splitting Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) Electroactive networks His research emphasizes atomic-scale control of material architectures using self-assembly, hydrogen bonding, and covalent interactions, enabling precise tuning of electronic, optical, and catalytic properties. A review of his recent publications reveals cutting-edge investigations into covalent organic frameworks (COFs), perovskite-inspired solar materials, and functional nanoparticle systems. Key trends include optimizing energy conversion efficiency, enhancing stability in optoelectronic devices, and exploring bio-compatible nanocarriers for targeted therapies. Professor Bein’s group actively contributes to interdisciplinary projects at the intersection of chemistry, physics, and biomedical engineering, with ongoing collaborations in solar energy, sustainable materials, and nanomedicine.
Christoph Keplinger serves as Managing Director of the Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS) in Stuttgart, Germany, leading the Robotic Materials Department since 2020 and assuming overall institute leadership in 2023. He holds dual academic appointments as Honorary Professor at the University of Stuttgart and Eminent Visiting Professor of Soft Robotics at the University of Colorado Boulder, establishing him as a pivotal figure in bridging fundamental materials science with advanced robotics. His interdisciplinary approach integrates physics, chemistry, and engineering to pioneer breakthroughs in soft robotic systems. Keplinger's academic foundation includes a PhD in Soft Matter Physics from Johannes Kepler University Linz, Austria, followed by postdoctoral research at Harvard University focusing on mechanics and chemistry of soft materials. This unique background enabled his transition into robotics innovation, particularly in electrohydraulic actuation systems. His research program centers on three synergistic pillars: (I) soft robotics development through novel actuator technologies like HASEL artificial muscles; (II) energy capture mechanisms using soft materials; and (III) functional polymers engineered for robotic applications. This work produces transformative hardware that mimics biological functionality, with significant implications for human-robot interaction, medical devices, and sustainable robotics systems. His group employs cutting-edge materials synthesis and characterization techniques to create lifelike robotic components. Analysis of recent publications reveals dominant trends in wearable haptic interfaces, electrohydraulic actuation systems, and tremor-suppression technologies. The research consistently leverages HASEL (Hydraulically Amplified Self-healing Electrostatic) technology to achieve muscle-like performance in soft actuators, with applications spanning from fingertip haptic feedback to underwater manipulation systems. This trajectory demonstrates a clear progression from fundamental material properties toward practical implementations in medical rehabilitation and human augmentation. His exceptional contributions have earned prestigious recognition: 2017 Packard Fellowship for Science and Engineering, awarded for high-impact interdisciplinary research 2021 Alexander von Humboldt Professorship (declined to remain at MPI-IS), Germany's most valuable international research award 2013 EAPromising European Researcher Award from the European Scientific Network for Artificial Muscles As principal investigator, Keplinger leads a dynamic interdisciplinary research group while securing competitive funding for frontier projects. His entrepreneurial vision materialized in 2018 through co-founding Artimus Robotics, where he serves as Chief Science Officer to commercialize HASEL technology. This dual commitment to academic research and industry translation exemplifies his dedication to real-world impact, particularly in creating biodegradable and sustainable soft robotic solutions. The Robotic Materials Department operates state-of-the-art facilities for materials fabrication, robotic integration, and haptic interface development. The team maintains strong collaborations across MPI-IS departments and external institutions including the University of Colorado Boulder, fostering innovation in sustainable robotics through initiatives like biodegradable electrohydraulic actuators. Current projects focus on wearable tremor suppression systems, electrohydraulic locomotion platforms, and energy-autonomous soft robots that address critical challenges in medical rehabilitation and human augmentation.
Prof. Dr. Oliver Reiser is a full Professor at the Institute of Organic Chemistry within the Faculty of Chemistry and Pharmacy at the University of Regensburg. His research group focuses on cutting-edge developments in organic synthesis, particularly in the areas of photocatalysis and visible light chemistry. He leads the Collaborative Research Centre CRC 325 on "Assembly Controlled Chemical Photocatalysis," which aims to develop new frontiers in photocatalysis for organic synthesis through designed control of catalyst-substrate interactions. University of Hamburg (PhD, 1989) IBM Research Center (Postdoc) Harvard University (Postdoc) University of Göttingen (Habilitation, 1995) Prof. Reiser's research spans multiple interconnected fields with a strong emphasis on sustainable chemistry. His group extensively utilizes modern techniques for organic synthesis including flow reactors, microwaves, and high-pressure systems. The primary research thrusts include catalysis (both metal and organocatalysts), unnatural amino acids and peptide foldamers, and natural product synthesis. His work on visible light photocatalysis has been particularly influential, with numerous publications in high-impact journals like Angewandte Chemie and Nature Catalysis. The group's research integrates experimental, spectroscopic, and computational techniques to analyze catalyst-substrate interactions for more rational design of photochemical reactions. Analysis of Prof. Reiser's recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong focus on copper-based photocatalysis, sustainable chemistry using earth-abundant metals, and innovative approaches to heterocycle synthesis. His work demonstrates a clear trend toward developing more efficient and environmentally friendly catalytic processes, with particular emphasis on visible light activation, catalyst immobilization for recyclability, and applications in medicinal chemistry. The research spans from fundamental mechanistic studies to practical applications in synthesis. German Academic Scholarship Foundation Minerva Foundation NATO Fellowship German Research Foundation Support Karl Winnacker Foundation Prof. Reiser has supervised numerous doctoral students, with recent PhD theses focusing on copper photoredox catalysis, magnetic nanoparticle-supported catalysts, and the synthesis of bioactive compounds. His research is supported by multiple collaborative projects, including the Collaborative Research Centre CRC 325, and involves extensive national and international collaborations with institutions such as the University of Kansas, the National Institute of Chemistry in Pune, the Institut Chimie de Coordination du CNRS in Toulouse, and the University of Zaragoza. The group maintains strong ties with pharmaceutical research through collaborations with Prof. A. Beck-Sickinger in Leipzig on neuropeptide ligands. The research group operates well-equipped laboratories with capabilities for advanced organic synthesis and characterization. They have developed specialized expertise in flow chemistry, high-pressure techniques, and magnetic nanoparticle-based catalyst systems. The CRC 325 initiative has provided significant infrastructure for collaborative research in photocatalysis, bringing together multiple research groups with complementary expertise in organic synthesis, spectroscopy, and computational chemistry.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Thomas Zwick is a full professor and director of the Institute of High Frequency Engineering and Electronics (IHE) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). He holds a Dipl.-Ing. (M.S.E.E.) and Dr.-Ing. (Ph.D.E.E.) from the University of Karlsruhe. His career includes roles at IBM Research (2001–2004), Siemens AG (2004–2007 managing automotive radar teams), and KIT since 2007. He leads research in high-frequency technologies, antennas, radar systems, and wireless communications. Research interests include radio wave propagation, antenna design, automotive radar architectures, and millimeter-wave systems. He has authored/co-authored over 400 papers, 20 patents, and received IEEE Fellow status (2018), honorary doctorate from Budapest University (2022), and membership in the Heidelberg Academy and acatech. His work emphasizes integrating sensing and communication systems, 3D-printed RF components, and high-frequency measurement techniques. Teaching focuses on high-frequency engineering, electronic circuits, and radar systems. He oversees the IHE’s laboratories, including the Microwave Engineering Lab and Student Innovation Lab. Recent work explores sub-THz communication, RIS-aided ISAC systems, and beamforming for reduced EMF exposure in urban scenarios.
Antonello Monti is a Professor and Director of the Institute for Automation of Complex Power Systems at RWTH Aachen University. His research focuses on modern power systems, including smart grid technologies, hybrid AC-DC grids, and quantum computing applications in energy systems. Recent publications demonstrate innovations in grid resilience, EV charging optimization, quantum-assisted power system planning, and advanced simulation techniques. His team develops open-source tools like JuliaGrid for power system analysis and validates concepts through real-time testing platforms. Research addresses energy transition challenges including renewable integration, grid modernization, cyber-physical security, and next-generation optimization methods combining quantum computing with traditional power engineering approaches.
Örs Legeza is a physicist and scientific advisor at the Wigner Research Centre for Physics of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences in Budapest, leading the Strongly Correlated Systems Research Group. He holds a visiting professorship at Philipps University Marburg, Germany, and has held fellowships at institutions like ETH Zurich and LMU Munich. His research focuses on developing tensor network state (TNS) methods for strongly correlated quantum systems, with applications in condensed matter physics, quantum chemistry, and nuclear structure calculations. Education: PhD from Budapest University of Technology and Economics (1997). He has collaborated with European institutions such as FAU Erlangen-Nuremberg and has been an Alexander von Humboldt awardee. His work bridges quantum information theory and computational mathematics to advance simulations of complex quantum systems. Research interests include quantum phase transitions, magnetic properties in solids, and ultracold atomic systems. His methods push computational boundaries for larger systems, integrating techniques like density matrix renormalization group (DMRG) and matrix product states (MPS). Notable awards include the 2021 Academy Prize and 2018 Humboldt Research Award. Recent articles explore quantum crystal imaging, tensor network algorithms, and nuclear structure calculations. His work emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches to quantum many-body problems.
Prof. Dr. Aliaksandr Bandarenka is a Professor at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) in the TUM School of Natural Sciences , leading the Assistant Professorship of Physics of Energy Conversion and Storage . His research focuses on electrochemical surface science and energy materials development. Education: PhD in Chemistry from Belarusian State University (2005) Key Collaborations: Ruhr University Bochum, University of Twente, Technical University of Denmark Prof. Bandarenka's research explores: Design of electrocatalytic materials via bottom-up approaches Characterization of electrified interfaces Development of sustainable energy conversion/storage systems Surface structure-activity relationships in catalysis Recent article trends (2024) include: ORR electrocatalyst optimization using ZIF-8 templating Advanced impedance spectroscopy for battery/electrolyzer diagnostics Mesoporous oxide materials for energy applications Surface structure effects on double layer capacitance Scientific Recognition: Ernst Haage-Prize (2016) Hans-Jürgen Engell Award (2013) He teaches graduate courses on: Electrified interfaces Energy materials science Electrocatalysis fundamentals Hands-on experiments in battery technology
Hartmut Michel is a Scientific Member and Director at the Max Planck Institute of Biophysics in Frankfurt, Germany, where he leads the Department of Molecular Membrane Biology. He has held this position since 1987 and has also served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Frankfurt since 1989. Michel received his PhD in Biochemistry from the University of Wuerzburg in 1977 and completed postdoctoral work there before joining the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry as a research associate. Michel's research focuses on membrane proteins, particularly in the areas of structural biology, biochemistry, photosynthesis, and respiratory complexes. His work has centered on understanding the structure and function of membrane proteins, especially cytochrome c oxidase and photosynthetic reaction centers. He pioneered techniques for membrane protein crystallization and has made significant contributions to understanding electron transfer processes and proton pumping mechanisms in respiratory enzymes. His publication record spans over four decades, with recent work focusing on cryo-EM structural analysis of membrane proteins including cytochrome bd oxidases, ABC transporters, and photosynthetic complexes. The research demonstrates a consistent trajectory from fundamental structural studies toward understanding functional mechanisms and applications in areas like antibiotic development and bioenergetics. Scientific Awards 1986 Leibniz Prize of the German Research Foundation 1988 Otto Bayer Prize (with Johann Deisenhofer) 1988 Nobel Prize in Chemistry (with Johann Deisenhofer and Robert Huber) 2008 Keilin Medal of the British Biochemical Society Honorary doctorates from the Universities of Wuerzburg and Bologna Michel has maintained an active research program with numerous collaborations across Europe and internationally. His laboratory has developed innovative approaches for membrane protein expression, purification, and structural characterization. The team has made significant contributions to understanding the structure-function relationships in respiratory chain components and photosynthetic apparatus. His department at the Max Planck Institute serves as a leading center for membrane protein research, with specialized facilities for protein crystallization, cryo-electron microscopy, and functional characterization of membrane proteins. The research has implications for understanding fundamental biological energy conversion processes and developing new therapeutic approaches targeting membrane proteins.
Matthias Kuhl is a Professor at the Institute of Microsystems Technology (IMTEK) at the University of Freiburg since April 2022. He leads research projects focused on neural probes, biomedical implants, and integrated microelectronic systems. His work includes developing low-power neural interfaces, stress sensors, and energy-efficient circuits for medical applications. Research Interests Neural probes with electronic depth control Implantable biomedical devices CMOS integrated sensors and actuators Energy harvesting for autonomous systems Microfabrication and 3D-printed electronics Key Projects Advanced EDC: Intracortical neural probes with electronic depth control ComBiNE: Bidirectional neural exchange components SEAM-WiT: Implantable neural probe transceivers Multi-material 3D-printed electronics His recent publications emphasize low-power neural front-ends, stress sensor integration, and biomedical system design. He advises numerous graduate students on topics ranging from CMOS circuit design to biohybrid systems. Labs & Teams He leads the Professur für Mikroelektronik lab, specializing in microelectronic systems for biomedical and industrial applications. Collaborates with orthodontic, neurobiology, and materials science groups.
Prof. Dr. Roland Zengerle serves as Full Professor for Application Development at the Institute of Microsystems Technology within the Faculty of Engineering at Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg, concurrently holding the position of Director at Hahn-Schickard Institute for Microanalysis Systems in Freiburg. His academic leadership spans microsystems engineering with a focus on translational research bridging fundamental science and clinical applications. Zengerle's research expertise centers on Microfluidics, Lab-on-a-Chip systems, Bio-MEMS, Electrochemical Energy Systems, and Tomographic Reconstruction of Mesoporous Materials. He pioneers hybrid manufacturing techniques integrating molten metal printing with polymer processing to develop point-of-care diagnostic platforms and advanced energy systems. Current projects include UTI-Diag for urinary tract infection diagnosis and PhotonMed, a 32-million-euro medical technology initiative where his MEMS Applications Laboratory develops centrifugal microfluidic solutions. Analysis of his recent publications reveals a dominant trend toward multi-technology integration: centrifugal microfluidics combined with 3D bioprinting for organoid-based drug testing, molten metal printing for flexible electronics, and bead-based immunoassays for infectious disease detection. The work demonstrates strong clinical translation focus, particularly in cancer diagnostics (circulating tumor cell isolation), infectious disease testing (TB diagnostics), and regenerative medicine (spheroid/organoid handling). His laboratory has secured significant funding for high-impact projects including: UTI-Diag: Molecular diagnostics for urinary tract infections PhotonMed: Medical technology innovation consortium livMatS: Living, Adaptive and Energy-autonomous Materials Systems Zengerle actively mentors researchers through Freiburg's Master Lab program and Writer's Studio initiative while promoting young talent via Bootcamp training. His group maintains strategic alliances with Hahn-Schickard spin-offs and industry partners, leveraging university cleanroom facilities and specialized service centers for microfabrication. The MEMS Applications Laboratory operates as a hub for interdisciplinary innovation, combining microfabrication expertise with clinical insights to develop commercializable diagnostic solutions. Current infrastructure supports centrifugal microfluidic cartridge development, 3D-bioprinting of tissue models, and electrochemical sensor integration, with ongoing work focused on automating complex biological workflows for point-of-care applications.
Prof. Dr. Uli Lemmer is a Professor at the Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (ETIT) at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). His research focuses on optoelectronics, thermoelectric materials, and printed electronics, with a strong emphasis on energy harvesting, nanotechnology, and photonics. He leads the Lichttechnisches Institut (LTI) and is affiliated with the Institute of Applied Physics. His work spans innovations in laser systems, flexible electronics, and bio-inspired materials. Office: Building 30.34, Room 223; Phone: +49 721 608-42530; Email: uli.lemmer@kit.edu. Research interests include the development of advanced materials for solar cells, thermoelectric generators, and sensor technologies. He pioneers methods like aerosol-jet printing and inkjet printing for scalable production of electronic devices. His group explores biomimetic structures (e.g., snake scale nanopores) and terahertz systems, pushing boundaries in both fundamental science and applied engineering. Recent publications highlight breakthroughs in printed thermoelectric modules, perovskite-based photovoltaics, and high-frequency antennas. His work integrates cutting-edge fabrication techniques with material science to address challenges in renewable energy, sensor networks, and flexible electronics. Prof. Lemmer collaborates internationally on projects like EU-funded energy initiatives and partners with industry for technology transfer. His lab specializes in additive manufacturing, optical systems, and nanoscale device engineering, aiming to bridge the gap between academic research and industrial applications.
Kevin Schneider is a Laboratory Fellow at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), a Research Professor at Washington State University (WSU), and an Affiliate Associate Professor at the University of Washington. As manager of PNNL's Office of Electricity Subsector, he leads business development, client relations, and strategic investments in R&D for the grid sector, overseeing portfolios in component design, system modeling, hierarchical controls, secure communications, and energy storage. Dr. Schneider is internationally recognized for his expertise in power system analysis, planning, and operations. His research focuses on improving grid reliability and system flexibility by harnessing advanced grid concepts at the edge of power systems, including microgrids, energy storage, electric vehicles, distributed energy resources, and smart home appliances. At WSU, he is a researcher for the WSU and PNNL Advanced Grid Institute (AGI), implementing layered control architectures to enhance operational flexibility of critical power systems. His work spans multiple disciplines within electrical engineering and power systems, with strong emphasis on practical applications for grid modernization, particularly in grid resilience, microgrid operations, and integration of distributed energy resources. Dr. Schneider is a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), where he has served in multiple technical leadership roles. His scientific contributions have been recognized with significant awards: Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PCASE), 2019 Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Dr. Schneider earned his B.S. in Physics and M.S. and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering from the University of Washington. He is a licensed Professional Engineer in Washington State. His research has resulted in numerous patents related to power grid technologies, including several focused on voltage and frequency stability of distribution systems. His work has substantial implications for grid modernization efforts and the development of more resilient power systems in the face of climate change and other challenges.
Prof. Laura Na Liu is a Professor and Director at the 2nd Physics Institute, University of Stuttgart, with a dual affiliation at the Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research. Her research bridges nanophotonics, DNA nanotechnology, and plasmonics, focusing on dynamic systems for biomedical applications, optical metamaterials, and synthetic biology. Key contributions include DNA-templated plasmonic architectures, reconfigurable metasurfaces, and synthetic cell components using DNA nanotechnology. Academic training includes advanced work in physics and materials science, with a career spanning leading institutions. Research interests emphasize the interplay between nanoscale structures and optical/chemical functionalities. Recent publications highlight innovations in programmable nanomaterials, real-time molecular tracking, and high-performance holography systems. Her work integrates experimental and theoretical approaches, addressing challenges in biophotonics, nanoelectronics, and smart materials. Awards and recognitions are listed in institutional records, while her lab actively collaborates with industry on applied photonics solutions.
Florian Hausen is a Professor for Applied Interface Electrochemistry at RWTH Aachen University and leads the scanning probe microscopy focused group at the Fundamentals of Electrochemistry (IET-1) department within Forschungszentrum Jülich . His work bridges electrochemistry, nanotechnology, and materials science, with a focus on energy storage systems. Education : Studied Chemistry at the University of Bonn PhD in Physics from Saarland University Hausen's research interests center on in-situ/operando scanning probe techniques to study interfaces in energy materials, including solid-state batteries , proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers , and ionic liquids . His group explores: Correlative microscopy (AFM, SEM, EPR) for multi-scale analysis Mechanical properties under electrochemical load Tribology of materials in battery systems Interphases in lithium, zinc, and silicon-based energy technologies The article trends reflect his expertise in: Nanoscale electrochemical characterization of battery and electrolyzer components Material degradation under dynamic cycling and electrochemical stress Correlation of electrical, mechanical, and chemical properties in energy systems Technique development for operando studies and data reproducibility His work contributes to understanding and improving: Lithium plating and SEI formation Nanomechanical stability of electrolyzer anodes and cathodes Carbon nanofiber properties for battery electrodes Doping effects in ceramic solid electrolytes
Dr. Barak Ratzker is a researcher at the Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials , affiliated with the Microstructure Physics and Alloy Design department. His work focuses on the sustainable synthesis of materials, particularly through hydrogen-based reduction pathways and advanced sintering techniques like spark plasma sintering (SPS) and hot isostatic pressing (HIP). His research spans transparent ceramics, MAX/MXene phases, and alloy design. Key research areas include: Hydrogen reduction of oxides for sustainable metallurgy Pressure-assisted sintering (SPS/HIP) of transparent ceramics Microstructure engineering in refractory materials Development of MXene-based composites for electronics Thermodynamic and kinetic analysis of solid-state reactions His recent publications highlight trends in: Environmentally conscious processing of ferromanganese oxides High-pressure synthesis of MAX phases and MXenes Optimization of optical and mechanical properties in ceramics Dynamic deformation behavior under extreme conditions Biological material interactions (e.g., crusticul-chitin systems)
