CRC Distinguished Lecturer Series
In the Distinguished Lecturer Series high-ranked catalysis researcher are invited to present overarching and cutting-edge topics in catalysis science, targeting a broad and interdisciplinary audience.
Inaugural lecture: Prof. Arne Thomas
News |
Prof. Arne Thomas, Chair of Macromolecular Chemistry at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) School of Natural Sciences, presented his inaugural lecture, “Much Ado about Nothing – Nanoporous Materials for Catalysis and Energy Conversion” on June 2, 2026, in the Emil Ehrlenmeyer lecture hall at the Department of Chemistry. The Munich Chemical Society of the German Chemical Society hosted the popular event, with an introduction by Prof. Roland A. Fischer.
Nanoporous materials, which are characterized by extremely small pore sizes and large surface areas, play a key role in applications ranging from water treatment and gas separation to energy storage and catalysis. Their effectiveness depends on the precise control of both their structural properties and surface chemistry.
In his research career thus far, Prof. Thomas has explored a wide spectrum of these materials, including inorganic, organic, and hybrid systems, with a particular focus on microporous polymer networks and covalent organic frameworks. These materials combine structural precision, tunability, and molecular structures that make them versatile platforms for further academic as well as industry applications.
A central aspect of his work is the integration of functional molecular units directly into the material framework, enabling new catalytic reaction pathways. To address current challenges in sustainable chemistry, his group also develops hybrid and composite materials, for example by incorporating biocatalysts as metal-free alternatives or combining organic frameworks with inorganic nanomaterials.
By using these approaches, nanoporous materials can be tailored as scalable platforms for sustainable chemical transformations, contributing to solutions for pressing environmental and societal challenges.
The talk was followed by active discussions with members of the audience, which included students, members of his research group, and new colleagues at the TUM School of Natural Sciences.
More information and links
- Prof. Arne Thomas: https://www.ch.nat.tum.de/en/ch/ueber-uns/people/profs/arne-thomas/
- TUM Catalysis Research Center
- The Munich Chemical Society (Münchener Chemische Gesellschaft) is a local section of the German Chemical Society (Gesellschaft Deutscher Chemiker) https://en.gdch.de/
Press contact
communications@nat.tum.de
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Original Post: Inaugural lecture: Prof. Arne Thomas - TUM School of Natural Sciences