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.
Prof. Alexander Holleitner leads the Chair of Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials at the Department of Physics, Technical University of Munich , under the Walter Schottky Institute. His research focuses on ultrafast optoelectronics, quantum optoelectronics, and excitonic systems in nanoscale circuits. Research Directions : Ultrafast optoelectronics, quantum optoelectronics, excitonic systems, THz time-domain spectroscopy, and nanofabrication of mixed organic/inorganic systems. Publications : Recent work spans hyperbolic polaritons, interlayer excitons, graphene nano-gap dynamics, and defect engineering in 2D materials. Collaborations include interdisciplinary projects with groups studying semiconductor heterostructures and quantum technologies. His lab welcomes students and researchers interested in experimental physics, quantum electronics, and nanofabrication.
Prof. Dr.-Ing. Andreas Thiede is a faculty member at the University of Paderborn , affiliated with the Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Computer Science and Mathematics and the Institute of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology . He serves as director of the High-frequency electronics (HFE) research group. Research Interests: High-frequency electronics and optoelectronics Quantum dots and exciton qubits Nonlinear photonics and ultrafast control Semiconductor device engineering Key Projects: Participates in TRR 142: Tailor-Made Nonlinear Photonics , focusing on functional structures for quantum and ultrafast systems. Teaching Roles: Analog CMOS circuits (does not apply) Analog CMOS ICs (cancelled) Contact Details: Email: andreas.thiede@uni-paderborn.de Phone: +49 5251 60-3040 Office: Pohlweg 47-49, 33098 Paderborn Space: P1.402.1
Rupert Huber is a Professor at the Department of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg, where he has held a chair since 2010. His research focuses on ultrafast quantum phenomena, terahertz science, and lightwave electronics, with a strong emphasis on nanoscale imaging and quantum materials. He leads the Huber group, which has launched the ERC project 'Orbital Cinema' and produced numerous high-impact publications in journals like Nature and Nano Letters . Chair for Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Regensburg (2010–present) Emmy Noether Group Leader, University of Konstanz (2007–2010) Alexander von Humboldt Fellow, UC Berkeley/Lawrence Berkeley National Lab (2004–2006) His research explores terahertz spectroscopy , quantum materials , and ultrafast nanoscopy , often combining experimental innovation with theoretical insights. Recent work includes groundbreaking studies on exciton dynamics in van der Waals magnets and subcycle imaging of electron wave motion. The group’s publications frequently appear as coverstories in Nature Photonics and Nano Letters . Huber has received prestigious awards such as the Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Prize (2019) , ERC Starting Grant (2012) , and OSA Fellowship (2018) . He has supervised numerous Ph.D. and Master’s students, including recent awardees like Joshua Mornhinweg (faculty dissertation prize, 2024) and Josef Riepl (best tutor award, 2024).
Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse SpectroscopyGermany
Prof. Stefan Eisebitt is a Director at the Max-Born-Institut für Nichtlineare Optik und Kurzzeitspektroskopie and holds a Professorship in Experimental Physics at the Technische Universität Berlin. His research focuses on ultrafast magnetization dynamics, nanoscale structure analysis, and novel imaging techniques using coherent XUV/X-ray spectroscopy. He leads the Transient Electronic Structure and Nanoscience group and is involved in cutting-edge projects involving femtosecond laser-driven X-ray sources and spintronic materials. Education and Career: He obtained his Diplom (1992) and Ph.D. (1996) from Cologne University, followed by postdoctoral research at the University of British Columbia and Forschungszentrum Jülich. He became a Privatdozent at Humboldt-Universität Berlin (2005) and held professorships at TU Berlin (2008–2015) and Lund University (2012–2015) before his current role since 2015. He leads the Functional Nanomaterials joint research group between Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin and TU Berlin. Research Interests: His work spans transient electronic structure, ultrafast optical manipulation of magnetization, nanoscale material characterization, and advanced coherent imaging methods. Key techniques include XUV/X-ray spectroscopy, laser-driven plasma sources, and femtosecond time-resolved studies. Professional Roles: He chairs the Physikalische Gesellschaft zu Berlin and the Elettra Scientific Advisory Council. He has held leadership roles in the European XFEL Scientific Advisory Committee and the Komitee für Forschung mit Synchrotronstrahlung (KFS). His lab develops state-of-the-art setups for ultrafast X-ray scattering and holography.
F. Ömer Ilday is a distinguished physicist and Alexander von Humboldt Professor at Ruhr University Bochum since July 2023, holding a joint appointment in the Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology and Faculty of Physics and Astronomy. His pioneering work in ultrafast laser technology has transformed non-linear laser-matter interactions, with applications spanning precision manufacturing, medical surgery, and nanofabrication. Education: PhD in Physics, Cornell University (2003) Postdoctoral Research Scientist, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (2003-2005) Ilday's research centers on ultrafast laser development and materials science, focusing on GHz-repetition-rate burst-mode systems, nonlinear laser lithography, and self-organization phenomena. His interdisciplinary approach bridges photonics, plasma physics, and materials engineering to enable breakthroughs in nanostructuring, silicon processing, and laser-based manufacturing. Current work emphasizes developing high-power laser sources and exploring fundamental laser-matter interaction mechanisms for next-generation applications. His recent publications (2023-2025) reveal dominant trends in high-repetition-rate burst-mode lasers (up to 50 GHz), ablation efficiency optimization, and nonlinear laser lithography for 3D silicon structuring. These works demonstrate strong convergence between fundamental physics and industrial applications, particularly in medical surgery, nanofabrication, and materials synthesis, with increasing emphasis on self-organization principles in laser systems. Scientific awards: Turkish Academy of Sciences Outstanding Young Scientist Award (2006) Marie Curie International Reintegration Grant (2006) ERC Consolidator Grant (2014) - Turkey's first ERC Advanced Grant (2022) Election to Academia Europaea Election to Turkish Academy of Sciences Membership in Turkish and American Physical Societies Ilday has secured major competitive grants including two ERC awards and a Marie Curie fellowship, directing research teams at Bilkent University's Ultrafast Optics & Lasers Laboratory (UFOLAB) which developed technologies adopted globally. At RUB, he is establishing the Center for Complex Laser-Matter Interactions as an interdisciplinary hub fostering collaborations between photonics, plasma research, and materials science, with explicit goals for spin-off company formation and transdisciplinary innovation in manufacturing technologies. As founding director of UFOLAB at Bilkent University, Ilday developed laser systems deployed by research institutions worldwide and established Turkey's first laser company. His RUB center integrates electrical engineering and physics expertise to advance complex laser-matter interaction research, focusing on self-organizing laser systems, nanostructuring techniques, and applications in semiconductor manufacturing and medical technology through close industry partnerships.
Prof. Dr. Ioachim Pupeza serves as Group Leader in the Department of Spectroscopy/Imaging at the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology (Leibniz-IPHT) in Jena, Germany. His research focuses on advanced optical measurement techniques, particularly in the field of field-resolved spectroscopy and precision optical measurements. Dr. Pupeza's research interests center around optical spectroscopy with a particular emphasis on field-resolved techniques that capture the complete electric field waveform of light-matter interactions. His work spans infrared spectroscopy , molecular fingerprinting , ultrafast laser technology , and precision optical measurements . He has made significant contributions to electro-optic sampling techniques, which enable characterization of electric-field waveforms across the terahertz to visible spectral range. His research also extends to mid-infrared light generation , terahertz spintronic emitters , and cavity-enhanced spectroscopy , with applications ranging from fundamental physics to medical diagnostics. Analysis of Dr. Pupeza's recent publications reveals a strong trend toward increasingly sophisticated field-resolved spectroscopy techniques with applications in both fundamental science and practical diagnostics. His work has evolved from basic measurement techniques to applications in cancer detection through molecular fingerprinting of biofluids. A consistent theme across his publications is the pursuit of higher precision, broader bandwidth, and improved sensitivity in optical measurements, often achieving attosecond-level precision. His research bridges physics, engineering, and medical applications, demonstrating how fundamental optical advances can translate to real-world diagnostic tools. Dr. Pupeza leads the research group "Field-Resolved Optical Precision Measurement Methods" at Leibniz-IPHT, which appears to collaborate extensively with other research institutions and groups. His work involves sophisticated laser systems including high-power Yb:YAG thin-disk oscillators, femtosecond enhancement cavities, and dual-oscillator systems for precision measurements. The group's research has implications for molecular spectroscopy, medical diagnostics, and fundamental studies of light-matter interactions at the most fundamental time scales.
Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse SpectroscopyGermany
Dr. Alexandre Mermillod-Blondin is a Principal Investigator heading a DFG-funded project on 'Micromachining with few-cycle pulses' at the Max Born Institute. His research focuses on fundamental laser-matter interactions and direct laser writing of 3D micro-optical systems in transparent materials. Key investigations include plasma formation mechanisms in dielectrics, relaxation dynamics, and applications in photonic device fabrication. His group utilizes phase-contrast microscopy and time-resolved techniques to characterize ultrafast processes.
Lukas Seitner is a researcher at the Technical University of Munich (TUM), affiliated with the School of Computation, Information and Technology and the Department of Electrical Engineering. He operates within the Associate Professorship of Computational Photonics led by Prof. Christian Jirauschek, focusing on advanced modeling of quantum cascade devices and terahertz photonics systems. His research spans quantum cascade lasers (QCLs), terahertz frequency combs, optical solitons, and computational photonics. Seitner has developed sophisticated simulation frameworks including Maxwell-Bloch and density matrix approaches to study nonlinear dynamics in optoelectronic devices. Key contributions involve passive mode-locking mechanisms in THz QCLs, graphene-integrated saturable absorbers for pulse generation, and backscattering effects in ring-cavity soliton formation. His work bridges theoretical modeling with practical device engineering for next-generation terahertz sources. As an educator, Seitner serves as assistant lecturer for multiple courses including Computational Photonics Laboratory (5 PR), Partial Differential Equations for Electrical Engineering (4 VI), and Simulation of Quantum Devices (4 VI). He actively participates in doctoral candidate seminars and specialized courses on quantum engineering, demonstrating strong commitment to academic training in photonics and quantum device physics. His teaching integrates cutting-edge research concepts into practical computational exercises. Seitner maintains active collaboration within the EU Project QOMBS and contributes to TUM's Computational Photonics group research infrastructure. His technical expertise encompasses numerical methods for partial differential equations, semiconductor device simulation, and nonlinear optical modeling. Current projects focus on optimizing THz comb sources for spectroscopic applications and extending quantum walk models for novel frequency comb generation mechanisms.
Max Planck Institute for Multidisciplinary SciencesGermany
Alec M. Wodtke serves as Director at the Max Planck Institute for Biophysical Chemistry and holds a Professorship at the University of Göttingen. He leads the Dynamics at Surfaces research group, which employs cutting-edge laser, molecular beam, and ultrahigh vacuum technologies to study molecular interactions at interfaces. His research focuses on understanding the fundamental rules governing energy conversion at molecular interfaces. Wodtke's work bridges macroscopic energy conversion phenomena with molecular-scale processes, investigating how energy transfers occur one molecule and one collision at a time. His group specializes in designing well-defined experiments that capture molecules in the act of reacting, providing benchmark measurements for theoretical advances in surface chemistry. Recent research trends show a strong focus on ultrafast molecular dynamics, with significant contributions to understanding hydrogen-graphene interactions, energy dissipation mechanisms at surfaces, and atomic-scale reaction kinetics. His work has important implications for developing heterogeneous catalysts, photovoltaics, and fuel cell technologies. Alexander von Humboldt Professorship (2011) ERC Synergy Grant worth 12 million euros (2024) Ertl Lecture Prize (2022) Somorjai Visiting Miller Research Professorship Moore Distinguished Scholar at Caltech Wodtke directs multiple project groups including Atom-surface scattering dynamics, Chemical dynamics using ultra-short atom pulses, First-principles simulations of molecule-surface dynamics, and Time-resolved spectroscopy of surface adsorbates. His research team has secured significant funding including Advanced ERC Grants and operates specialized facilities for surface science research.
Prof. Dr. Michael Horn-von Hoegen is a full professor in the Faculty of Physics at the University of Duisburg-Essen , Germany. His research focuses on ultrafast structural dynamics , surface physics , and 2D materials , particularly using electron diffraction and plasmonic imaging techniques. He leads the Horn-von Hoegen Group , which plays a central role in the Collaborative Research Center CRC 1242 Non-Equilibrium Dynamics of Condensed Matter in the Time Domain , where his team investigates driven phase transitions and phonon systems with sub-femtosecond temporal resolution. Location: Office Window MF260, Faculty of Physics, Lotharstr. 1-21, 47057 Duisburg Contact: Tel. +49 (203) 379 1439 | Fax +49 (203) 379 1555 His research spans ultrafast electron diffraction of photo-induced phase transitions in atomic wires and topological materials , with recent breakthroughs on Kibble-Zurek dynamics in the Si(001) surface and chiral plasmon polaritons . The group’s 15 most recent publications (2025-2022) address phenomena such as negative thermal expansion in 2D materials , electron-phonon coupling in Pb/Si heterostructures , and quantum pathway analysis in Bismuth films . These works are categorized under disciplines like Condensed Matter Physics , Nanooptics , and Ultrafast Dynamics , with subfields including Ising Model Transitions , Plasmon Focusing , and Time-Resolved Diffraction . Prof. Horn-von Hoegen serves as DFG Liaison Officer for the University of Duisburg-Essen, providing guidance on Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) proposals . His group has mentored notable researchers including Dr. Simon Sindermann (postdoc at IBM), Dr. Anja Hanisch-Blicharski (Leopoldina Fellow), Dr. Hichem Hattab (Leopoldina Fellowship), and Dr. Marin Petrovic (Humboldt Fellow). The group’s laboratory facilities include advanced ultrafast electron diffraction and photoemission microscopy systems, enabling studies of atomic-scale processes such as molecular dynamics simulations of laser-excited surfaces and domain wall motion in Si(553)-Au systems .
Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse SpectroscopyGermany
Dr. David Ayuso is a researcher at the Max Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy in Berlin, Germany, associated with the Strongfield Theory Group. His work focuses on ultrafast phenomena in chiral molecules, attosecond physics, and nonlinear optics. He contributes to understanding electronic and nuclear dynamics under extreme light-matter interactions. Research interests include photoionization dynamics, chiral sensitivity detection, and the development of synthetic chiral light techniques for molecular imaging. His recent studies explore geometric magnetism effects, polarization control, and enantio-selective observables in ultrafast spectroscopy. Key collaborations involve international teams working on high harmonic generation, X-ray scattering in liquids, and theoretical modeling of chiral systems. His publications frequently appear in Science Advances , Nature Photonics , and Optics Express .
Prof. Cristian A. Strassert is a Professor of Chemistry at the University of Münster, leading the Strassert Lab focused on Coordination Chemistry and Functional Imaging. His research integrates synthesis, characterization, and application of luminescent materials, with particular emphasis on transition metal complexes (Pt, Re, Zn) for biomedical and optoelectronic applications. Key areas include photophysics, aggregation-induced emission, and hybrid materials for sensing and imaging. Affiliations: CeNTech, CiMIC, SoN Research Centers. Collaborations: Global partnerships with institutions like BAM, University of Bielefeld, Tsinghua University, and Ramon Llull University. Research interests span luminescent probes, nanomaterials, and functional polymers, with over 150 interdisciplinary publications. Notable achievements include the Goldener Brendel Award 2021 from the Chemistry Student Council. Publications emphasize design of phosphorescent Pt(II) complexes for bioimaging, photocytotoxicity studies, and hybrid nanomaterials. His work bridges chemistry with biomedical and materials science, driving innovations in optical sensors and therapeutic agents.
Prof. Ady Arie is a Professor of Electrical Engineering at Tel Aviv University, where he serves as the Head of the Tel Aviv University Center for Light-Matter Interaction and holds the Marko and Lucie Chaoul Chair in Nano-Photonics. He has been a faculty member at the Iby and Aladar Fleischman Faculty of Engineering since 1993, previously serving as Head of the School of Electrical Engineering (2013-2017) and Vice Dean of Research (2011-2013). His educational background includes: B.Sc. in Mathematics and Physics from Hebrew University of Jerusalem (1983) M.Sc. in Physics from Tel-Aviv University (1986) Ph.D. in Engineering from Tel-Aviv University (1992) Prof. Arie's research spans multiple frontiers of optics and photonics. His work in nonlinear optics focuses on advanced frequency conversion techniques and shaping of light parameters using nonlinear photonic crystals. In quantum optics , he develops quantum light sources based on spontaneous parametric down conversion and explores applications in quantum sensing and communication. His plasmonics research investigates manipulation of surface plasmon polaritons on metal surfaces. In electron optics , he studies electron-matter-light interactions and techniques for sculpting electron wave functions. His lab also explores hydrodynamics through quantum simulations with water waves, creating analogies to quantum mechanical phenomena. Analysis of Prof. Arie's recent publications (2023-2025) reveals a strong focus on quantum technologies, particularly in quantum light generation, quantum sensing, and quantum information processing. His work increasingly integrates concepts from nonlinear optics, electron microscopy, and quantum physics, with growing emphasis on practical applications in quantum communication and computation. The research shows sophisticated manipulation of light-matter interactions across multiple platforms including nonlinear photonic crystals, plasmonic structures, and electron beams. Prof. Arie has received significant recognition for his work: Kadar Foundation Award for Excellence in Research (2016) Fellow of the Optical Society of America Editorial roles including Topical Editor of Optics Letters (2008-2014) and Associate Editor of Optica (since 2018) Prof. Arie leads the Nonlinear Optics and Wave Propagation Laboratory at Tel Aviv University, where his team investigates diverse wave phenomena from light frequency conversion to electron beam manipulation. He has served as chair of the national steering committee of the Israeli Planning and Budgeting Committee on Quantum Science and Technology. His research has been supported by various grants enabling the development of novel optical technologies and quantum systems. While specific grant details aren't provided in the text, his extensive publication record and leadership positions suggest substantial research funding. Prof. Arie's laboratory focuses on the intersection of classical and quantum wave phenomena. The lab investigates light manipulation through nonlinear optical processes, plasmonic structures, and electron microscopy techniques. Current research directions include quantum light generation, electron-photon interactions, and hydrodynamic analogs to quantum systems. The lab appears well-equipped for advanced optical experimentation with capabilities spanning visible to infrared wavelengths, nonlinear crystal engineering, and electron beam characterization.
Prof. Dr. Jürgen König is a Professor at the University of Duisburg-Essen , contributing to projects within the Collaborative Research Centre 1242. His research focuses on Charge Carrier Dynamics in Nanostructures (Project A02) and Unifying Theoretical Description of Relaxation in Electron Systems (Project B07). Contact details include email: koenig@thp.uni-due.de . Research interests span Condensed Matter Physics , Quantum Transport , Nanostructures , and Electron Dynamics . His work often employs theoretical modeling of quantum systems, with recent publications analyzing phase transitions in 2D Ising systems Floquet engineering in superconductors nonlocal thermoelectric correlations Lee-Yang zero analysis of transport . Articles from 2017-2024 highlight expertise in quantum dot systems , spin dynamics , surface physics , and full counting statistics .
