Technical University of Munich - Germany
AUTHOR PROFILE
RESEARCH AND TEACHING EXPERTISE
With a robust background spanning Materials Science, Soft Matter, Macromolecular, Supramolecular, Organic, and Analytical Chemistry, I have cultivated extensive research and teaching experience across leading institutions in Switzerland, France, Germany, and Spain. My career is marked by significant contributions in polymer synthesis and characterization, including (bio)polymers, nanocellulose dispersions, and nanofoams for thermal insulation.
MANAGERIAL AND LABORATORY LEADERSHIP
Currently serving as Head of the Wood Materials Science Group at Technical University of Munich (TUM), I oversee research initiatives focused on wood biopolymers, polymer nanocomposites, and wood adhesives. Previously, I led Chemistry laboratories and managed X-Ray and Thermal Analysis facilities, enhancing experimental capabilities and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations.
GRANTS AND ACADEMIC SUPERVISION
My career highlights include successful grants applications and mentorship roles as advisor and co-advisor for B.Sc., M.Sc., and Ph.D. theses. I have secured funding from prestigious bodies such as SNSF and COST, contributing to advancements in food and soft materials science at ETH Zurich and other renowned institutions.
EXPERIMENTAL EXPERTISE AND CHARACTERIZATION TECHNIQUES
I possess advanced proficiency in a range of experimental techniques, encompassing thermal, mechanical, optical analysis, scattering, spectroscopic, gravimetric, spectrometric, and chromatographic methods. My research extends to liquid crystals, colloidal systems, and functional materials like magneto-responsive polymer nanocomposites and ferroelectric liquid-crystalline polymers.
INDUSTRIAL ENGAGEMENT AND INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATIONS
Prior roles at BASF SE and collaborations with European research consortia have enriched my expertise in industrial applications and international research collaborations. I have played pivotal roles in EU/UK-funded projects and continue to innovate in sustainable materials and nanotechnologies.
EDUCATION AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
My academic journey includes research appointments at leading universities and industrial R&D settings, enhancing my expertise in polymer chemistry, organic materials, and sol-gel chemistry. I hold a strong commitment to interdisciplinary education, contributing to courses in wood science, materials engineering, and sustainable resource management.
CONTRIBUTIONS TO WOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
At TUM, I have developed and taught courses on Polymers in Wood Science & Technology, emphasizing wood adhesives, biopolymers, and nanotechnology applications. My research in wood and biomaterials mechanics, wood-based materials, and recycling processes underscores my dedication to advancing sustainable forestry and materials science.
NOTABLE PUBLICATION
Water-processable, biodegradable and coatable aquaplastic from engineered biofilms 2021 (77)
Motorizing fibres with geometric zero-energy modes 2018 (92)
Liquid-crystalline elastomer micropillar array for haptic actuation 2013 (74)
Thermoreversible gel–sol behavior of rod–coil–rod peptide-based triblock copolymers 2012 (62)