From 28 September to 1 October 2026, the 2nd PhotoBrane & Interfaces4Life Network Meeting took place in Zaragoza, Spain. The meeting brought together doctoral researchers, supervisors and experts from various European research institutions. The focus was on current work on photoactive materials, light-switchable membranes and functional interfaces, as well as scientific exchange within the networks.

Representing IOM, Abdur Rahman presented his research on “Light-Controlled Membranes.” His work focuses on developing membrane surfaces whose properties can be selectively altered using light. Molecular photoswitches are used for this purpose, as they can reversibly switch between different states. The aim is to control properties such as the polarity and wettability of polymer membranes and, in the long term, to develop light-switchable, fouling-resistant surfaces.

PD Dr. Agnes Schulze and Prof. Benjamin Dietzek-Ivanšić also presented further IOM research in the field of photoactive membranes in their lecture “Photoactive membranes at IOM: preparation, mechanistic and functional characterisation.”

The network meeting provided an excellent opportunity to highlight the complementary research approaches at IOM and to further strengthen international exchange on new concepts for smart and controllable membrane surfaces.