Multifunctional Matter and Multiscale Systems

On the one hand, our world is becoming more complex and the problems more diverse. On the other hand, there are an infinite number of possible solutions, if one abandons one-dimensional ways of thinking and includes the diverse influences of different magnitudes of scaling. Starting from macroscopic dimensions via microscopic and nanoscale sizes down to the molecular and atomic range, different properties can be combined in one material or system. The core research area "Multifunctional Matter and Multiscale Systems" addresses this issue by finding solutions through interdisciplinary cooperative research projects. Hereby, research groups from the engineering sciences (mechanical engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, computer science, architecture), the natural sciences (physics, chemistry and biology), and mathematics are working together. Topics explored are – among others - resource-saving construction, sustainable mobility, medical technology, complex biological systems and information technologies. Fundamental research questions in nanoscience and at the molecular or atomic level are also investigated, in which the quantum nature of matter comes into play in dynamics and structure.
 

Profile-building projects

Nationally visible collaborations in this field are researching novel aluminium alloys (LOEWE research cluster ALLEGRO), specially synthesized molecules for the storage of quantum information (LOEWE research cluster SMolBits, national cooperative project DIQTOK), and new approaches for innovative construction and design. In basic research, the DFG Collaborative Research Center ELCH contributes to the understanding of the chirality of molecules and thus their functionality. In contrast, the DFG Research Training Group Multiscale Clocks investigates how different fast clocks at the cellular level control complex biological rhythms of the body. Internally funded, the research cluster "BiTWerk" and the collaborative projects "SMARTCON", "Digiwerk", and "Lebensdauer" advance research on molecular components and multifunctional materials.

New heads

Image: Sonja Rode

10/05/2023 | Neuberufene | Porträts und GeschichtenProf. Dr. Mohamed Benyoucef

Image: SPIE-PW 2022

03/08/2023 | NeuberufeneProf. Dr. Camilo Florian Baron

Image: Song

02/16/2023 | NeuberufeneProf. Dr.-Ing. Wenwen Song

Structural connection

Structurally, the Center for Interdisciplinary Nanostructure Science and Technology (CINSaT) focuses the work in this core research area. Within the framework of the Center, the Institutes of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, the Institute of Nanostructure Technology and Analytics (INA), and the Departments of Electrical Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Architecture, and Mechanical Engineering work closely together in interdisciplinary research projects. Jointly, they advance basic research in this field, they help shape an important future technology, and they contribute to strengthening Hessen as a high-tech location through efficient technology transfer.

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