Photo exhibition
Our collection of portraits of current fellows and alumnae is constantly growing and and is shown at various events as an on-site photo exhibition.
-
The one who probes nanoscale phenomena in three dimensionsThe one who probes nanoscale phenomena in three dimensionsDr. Claire Donnelly, Lise Meitner Group Leader, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids, Dresden (2025)
When materials shrink to the nanoscale, their properties can change - and be controlled! Together with my group, I develop advanced 3D nanoprinting and X-ray tomographic techniques to explore nanoscale phenomena in quantum materials. By performing these studies in three dimensions, we explore new phenomena and opportunities for technologies that are not possible in planar systems.
As well as providing mentorship from Max Planck Directors, the Elisabeth Schiemann Kolleg also represents an important network of women group leaders at a similar stage in our careers. By offering a platform to share discussions of our science, leadership and work-life balance, the Kolleg has been invaluable in these important first years of my independent career.© Silvia Steinbach / Elisabeth-Schiemann-Kolleg -
The one who choreographs compositesThe one who choreographs compositesBuse Aktaş, Ph.D., Max Planck Research Group Leader, Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems, Stuttgart (2025)
I design and study adaptive composite materials, transforming static structures into dynamic, responsive and expressive ones. Much of my work involves aggregates - piles of particles, straw, flexible sheets or magnetic units - that can jam, unjam and rearrange themselves to alter their movement and shape. I explore these systems in contexts ranging from surgical tools to human–material interaction and circular construction. My research asks how our materials can actively collaborate with us rather than remaining static parts of machines.
The Elisabeth Schiemann Kolleg provides me with a community of peers and mentors with whom I can openly discuss aspects of academic life that are usually less visible. It has provided a supportive and encouraging environment amidst a steep learning curve, where we support each other in rethinking and shaping new ways of working.© Silvia Steinbach / Elisabeth-Schiemann-Kolleg -
The one who connects light and soundThe one who connects light and soundProf. Dr. Birgit Stiller, Max Planck Research Group Leader and Professor, Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light, Erlangen and Leibniz University
Hannover (2025)
My research focuses on the interaction between light and acoustic vibrations. My team aims to develop new photonic neuromorphic computing architectures. We experimentally investigate the quantum interactions of photons and phonons for quantum technologies, as well as exotic regimes and patterns in optical fibres and photonic regimes.
The Elisabeth Schiemann Kolleg has empowered me in many ways, helping me through challenging situations where the valuable advice of mentors and mentees was of great importance. The mentee network is well-connected and diverse, and I hope these connections will endure beyond my active involvement in the programme.© Silvia Steinbach / Elisabeth-Schiemann-Kolleg -
The one who captures and engineers life at the single-molecule levelThe one who captures and engineers life at the single-molecule levelDr. Viktorija Glembockyte, Max Planck Research Group Leader, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg (2026)
I combine advanced microscopy with nanoscale engineering to watch individual molecules in action. Together with my team, I use these high-precision observations to design a new generation of smart sensors and nanoscale devices. By understanding how these tools work at the molecular level, we aim to build better therapeutics and diagnostics that interface directly with the machinery of life.
Being part of the Elisabeth Schiemann Kolleg has been invaluable in navigating the early stages of an independent career. It connects me with a network of established researchers and fellow mentees whose diverse perspectives and shared experiences offer both invaluable support and a strong sense of community.© Silvia Steinbach / Elisabeth-Schiemann-Kolleg -
The one who renders electronics stretchable and adaptiveThe one who renders electronics stretchable and adaptiveDr. Ulrike Kraft, Lise Meitner Group Leader, Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research, Mainz (2026)
Soft, stretchable sensors worn on the skin can monitor health continuously – and have the potential to transform personalised medicine. Together with my interdisciplinary team, I develop polymer materials and electronic devices that are soft, elastic and responsive to their environment. From these materials we build adaptive systems for neuromorphic computing and highly sensitive stretchable biosensors.
Being part of the Elisabeth Schiemann Kolleg has greatly enriched the early years of my independent career by connecting me with an exceptional network of mentors and colleagues. The open exchange within the Kolleg creates a sense of community and support that will last.© Silvia Steinbach / Elisabeth-Schiemann-Kolleg -
The one who looks inside moleculesThe one who looks inside moleculesDr. Anna Rosławska, Lise Meitner Group Leader, Max Planck Institute for Solid State Research, Stuttgart (2026)
In my research group, we study the interaction of light and matter at the level of single atoms and molecules. By combining extremely precise and stable scanning probe microscopy with optical spectroscopy, we quite literally look inside individual molecules. This atomic-scale optics allows us to follow processes that are central to photosynthesis, to the conversion of electrons into light and to quantum optics – with a precision below one nanometer.
The Elisabeth Schiemann Kolleg gives me the opportunity to exchange ideas with experienced research leaders and with colleagues who are, like me, at the beginning of an independent career. What I value most in this network is its open and supportive atmosphere.© Silvia Steinbach / Elisabeth-Schiemann-Kolleg -
The one who searches for new physics with single ionsThe one who searches for new physics with single ionsDr. Vera Schäfer, Junior Research Group Leader, Max Planck Institute for Nuclear Physics, Heidelberg (2026)
Atomic spectra follow directly from the fundamental laws of physics, and they are among the most precisely measurable quantities we know. In my group, we look for the tiniest shifts in these spectra – to test the assumptions behind the standard model and to search for new physics, such as candidates for dark matter.
The Elisabeth Schiemann Kolleg gives me the chance to discuss challenging situations and important decisions with mentors and fellow mentees, and to gain valuable advice at this decisive stage of my career. It also gives me a network of like-minded friends who are at a similar point in life.© Silvia Steinbach / Elisabeth-Schiemann-Kolleg
