Prof. Dr. Thomas Lunkenbein appointed as Professor at the University of Bayreuth
Prof. Dr. Thomas Lunkenbein, formerly the group leader in the Department of Inorganic Chemistry at the Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society, has been appointed as a professor at the University of Bayreuth and has accepted the position. Starting in June, he will assume the professorship for Operando Analytics of Electrochemical Energy Storage.
Education and Career
2020: Habilitation in Inorganic Chemistry/Solid State Chemistry with a focus on Chemical and Operando Electron Microscopy, University of Bayreuth, Bayreuth
Since 2018: Head of the Electron Microscopy Group, Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society (FHI), Berlin
2012: Doctorate on Mesostructuring of Metal Oxides and Polyoxometalates, University of Bayreuth
2009 - 2012: Scientific Associate, Department of Inorganic Chemistry I, University of Bayreuth
2004 - 2009: Chemistry Studies, University of Bayreuth
Research Focus at the FHI
The Electron Microscopy Group focuses on the structural understanding of heterogeneous catalysts and chemical energy converters, utilizing state-of-the-art X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy methods. The aim is to uncover the differences between local and averaged structures and to understand their chemical relationship to catalysis. Our methodological portfolio includes detailed X-ray diffraction analysis, chemical electron microscopy, as well as operando and quasi in situ measurements for X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy.
Interview Highlights
1. How did you come to FHI and when?
During my doctoral studies at the University of Bayreuth, I used the electron microscope as a kind of "magnifying glass," which fascinated me greatly. This method was exciting and interesting, and I wanted to delve deeper into the subject. Towards the end of my doctorate, I completed an internship in the Department of Inorganic Chemistry at FHI, where I had the opportunity to use the microscope myself. Apparently, I didn't have two left hands, as a postdoc position in Marc Willinger's group under the direction of Director Robert Schloegl became available by chance. Thus, I joined FHI in 2012.
2. What did you do here?
At FHI, I investigated the local structures of complex catalyst systems using electron microscopy. I contributed to the development and application of operando electron microscopy. My goal was to establish structure-property relationships to improve catalyst systems.
3. How was your career supported by FHI and MPG?
I received great support from Prof. Schlögl and, more recently, from Prof. Roldán Cuenya. They gave me a lot of freedom and trust, which allowed me to work on many exciting challenges and tasks.
4. Collaboration within your team?
There was a strong sense of teamwork and support within my team. I was fortunate to work with an excellent team of creative and outstanding scientists, for which I am very grateful.
5. What have you taken away for your professional future?
I gained valuable experience in developing research approaches and leading teams. I learned to analyze problems comprehensively and to handle complex systems effectively. Additionally, I honed my ability to critically question and find innovative solutions.
6. What awaits you?
In Bayreuth, I look forward to returning to my roots, with bratwurst and beer. I am excited about joining a young faculty within Bayerisches Zentrum für Batterietechnik (BayBatt) and the scientific shift towards battery research. There are many exciting questions and new challenges awaiting me.
The academic community eagerly anticipates the contributions that Prof. Dr. Thomas Lunkenbein will make at the University of Bayreuth. His expertise in electron microscopy and his innovative approach to researching electrochemical energy storage promise to enrich the field significantly. We at the Fritz Haber Institute have greatly valued our collaboration with him and wish him all the best for his future endeavors. The doors for further collaboration with the FHI are wide open for Prof. Lunkenbein.
His return to Bayreuth marks not only a significant career step but also an exciting new phase in his scientific journey.
