Defect engineering is an established approach in hard-matter science, focusing on tailoring properties of inorganic semiconductors and organic molecular materials. However, the potential of defect control in soft matter remains underexplored.
Our collaborative research center (CRC) aims to shift this paradigm by understanding and controlling defects in polymeric, colloidal, and amphiphilic systems. We seek to establish the fundamental interplay between defects and the adaptivity and resilience of dynamic soft matter systems, enabling the development of functional units where defects control matter or charge transport.
This research will involve close collaboration among biologists, chemists, and physicists at Mainz, a renowned center of polymer and soft matter science.
In CRC1552, various projects from the fields of chemistry, physics and biosciences are working together under the premise “From Defects to Effects” to understand, control and ultimately utilize defects as functional entities in soft matter.
19 Oct 2026
22 Oct 2026
12 Nov 2026
The DEEMS retreat for early career researchers of the CRC1552 took place on October 19 and 20 in Stromberg, Germany. On the first day a workshop on presentation skills took place, the ECRs learned how to address different types of audiences and how to bring their message across. The course was held by Philipp Gramlich from NaturalScience.Careers.The day ended with an archery competition, which helped foster team building.
On the second day, initial preparations were made for the CRC’s on-site evaluation. The scientific coordinator briefed the ECRs on the on-site evaluation process and the necessary preparations. In addition, the ECRs gave presentations on their scientific progress, focusing in particular on topics relevant to a second funding period. We would like to thank the doctoral student representatives for organizing the event and are pleased with the lively discussions and the deepened collaboration within the network.
