From July 12 to 17, 2026, researchers from the IOM research group “Switchable molecularly functionalized surfaces” participated in the 10th EuChemS Chemistry Congress (ECC10) in Antwerp, Belgium, one of the largest international chemistry conferences in Europe.
During the congress, Noah Al-Shamery, Alina Petrovskaia, and Stanislav Petrovskii presented their latest research in oral presentations, showcasing IOM’s activities in advanced surface science and engineering.
Stanislav Petrovskii presented his research combining the chemical synthesis of polyoxometalate (POM) organo-inorganic hybrids and molecular modification of surfaces. The presented results include a systematic study of the structure and solvent determined adsorption patterns of the thiophen-functionalized POMs on Au(111) and provide a comprehensive bottom-up approach for the engineering of POM-functionalized metal surface.
Alina Petrovskaia presented her research on the controlled formation of hybrid hydrogel materials with covalently integrated metal (oxo) clusters. The study demonstrates the advantages of using vinyl-derivatized metal (oxo) clusters as photoinitiators and crosslinking agents for the synthesis of hydrogel films with diverse structures and confirmed antibacterial properties.
Noah Al-Shamery presented his research on scanning electrochemical cell microscopy (SECCM), highlighting previous developments in electrochemical imaging together with first insights into his current postdoctoral work at IOM on electrochemical redox programming of surfaces. His research contributes to the development of advanced methodologies for functional surface engineering and characterization.
In addition to his scientific presentation, Noah was recognized as a finalist of the European Young Chemists’ Award (EYCA) 2026, one of the flagship awards presented during the EuChemS Chemistry Congress. Together with the EYCN Board, he also received the EuChemS Certificate of Recognition in appreciation of dedicated leadership, service, and contributions to the European Young Chemists' Network during its first twenty years.
He was a key figure in organizing the young program this year and will lead the young program organization at ECC11 in Vienna in 2028.
The participation of IOM researchers at ECC10 highlights the institute’s active engagement in the international scientific community and its contributions to cutting-edge research in surface engineering.