Molecules and Materials

Alexander Khajetoorians focuses on the electronic and magnetic properties of materials at the scale of a single atom. Using the Netherlands highest resolution microscope, he aims to understand and utilise the undiscovered properties of materials for new computing paradigms.

Wilhelm Huck conducts research into how the first form of life originated. He tries to recreate and understand cells by constructing and measuring small networks of molecules, proteins and genes. In the process, he hopes to gain insight into how life is formed on a molecular scale.

Evan Spruijt conducts research into the development of living cells and the way in which molecules are organised in our own cells. He studies molecules that spontaneously assemble to form small droplets, in which he strives to mimic the traits of living cells like growth and division.

Jos Oomens uses infrared spectroscopy to research the molecular structure of ions in mass spectrometers, so that he can identify molecules in complex mixtures like blood or urine. These are used for defining metabolic disease biomarkers and identifying unknown water contaminants or designer drugs.

Johan Mentink is an expert in the field of magnetism. He researches new magnetic effects so that future technologies will be able to store and process information much more quickly and economically while requiring considerably less processing capacity.

Nigel Hussey is an expert in ‘magneto-transport’, investigating the physical mechanisms by which electrons travel through exotic metals or superconductors in a large magnetic field. He also explores a revolutionary new way of clean, safe transport: a floating module propelled by magnets in the road.

Arno Kentgens develops nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methodology for investigating the structure and dynamics of molecules and materials. NMR employs magnetic fields and radio waves to obtain this information, which contributes to the development of new solar cells and medicines.

Hans Elemans specialises in molecular nanotechnology. He is developing a new kind of hard disk where data will be stored on polymers; the main component will be the material that is also used in car tires. Data can then be stored more economically and without the use of scarce raw materials.