Dr. Benedikt Bagemihl, research associate in the “Switchable molecularly functionalized surfaces” division at the IOM, has been awarded a three-year Liebig Junior Research Group Fellowship by the Funds of German Chemical Industry Association (VCI). The fellowship will start September 1st, 2026.
In his project, Dr. Bagemihl will investigate photoactive early transition metal complexes and develop switchable materials from them. These materials will then be used in novel electronic components mimicking the human nervous system which among others offers an energy -efficient possibility to operate artificial intelligence. This will contribute to the overall reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the digitalized world. In addition to personal funding, the Liebig Fellowship also provides resources for establishing an independent research group, thereby laying an important foundation for early scientific autonomy.
The award recognizes Dr. Bagemihl’s scientific achievements to date as well as the potential of his planned research program. At the same time, it underscores the significance of his work for the division of “switchable molecularly functionalized surfaces” at the IOM.
We warmly congratulate Dr. Benedikt Bagemihl on receiving this recognition and wish him every success as he is starting his research project in the coming years.