Daniël Rap
Daniël Rap was PhD candidate in the FELIX Infrared and THz Spectroscopy research group (HFML-FELIX) within IMM. Rap defended his thesis entitled ‘Cosmic chemistry of complex aromatic molecules’, under supervision of promotor Prof. Britta Redlich and co-promotor dr. Sandra Brünken. The thesis showcases Rap’s broad knowledge and passion for astrochemistry.
The jury was impressed by his ability to combine experiments, calculations, and innovative ideas. His research resulted in a publication in Nature Astronomy.
Wojciech Lipinski
Wojciech Lipinski was PhD candidate in the Physical Organic Chemistry group within IMM. Lipinski defended his thesis ‘Protein aggregation in biomolecular condensates’, under supervision of promotor Prof. Wilhelm Huck and co-promotor dr. Evan Spruijt. ipinski studied liquid-liquid phase separation, showing how coacervate droplet interfaces can trigger protein aggregation.
The jury praised his use of diverse techniques, like peptide synthesis and confocal microscopy, and his independent approach. His work led to key publications in Nature Chemistry and Science Advances, and he started collaborations with researchers in Germany, Twente, and Groningen.
Werner van Weerdenburg
Werner van Weerdenburg completed his PhD in the Scanning Probe Microscopy group at IMM. His thesis, Atomic-Scale Dynamics & Two-Dimensional Superconductivity, was supervised by Prof. Alex Khajetoorians. The thesis covers three distinct topics and includes several high-profile publications, such as first-author papers in Science Advances and Physical Review B.
The jury admired his broad approach, from developing new techniques to fundamental discoveries. His STM upgrade for ESR at mK temperatures was a world-first, with major implications for magnetic resonance studies. His research on 2D superconductivity with aluminum also led to a collaboration with a theory group in Norway.
The IMM Best Thesis Awards have been presented to the winners at the IMM New Year’s reception on Thursday 16 January 2025.
We warmly congratulate Daniël, Wojciech and Werner with their prize.
(due to absence of Werner van Weerdenburg on the IMM's New Years gathering, only Daniël Rap and Wojciech Lipinski are included on the photo)