In her research, she pursues the goal of linking synthetic systems made of molecular building blocks with living cells. If the cells succeed in transmitting their movement impulses to the artificial structures, "living materials" can emerge from them. These biohybrid life-inspired microsystems would be independent of external energy sources. Prof. Selhuber-Unkel's vision is to develop self-regulating biotech hybrids with functionality far beyond the purely technical systems that exist today. "Prof. Selhuber-Unkel's work is characterized by highly innovative and original approaches that have the potential for a technological revolution," said the rationale for awarding the prize.
Christine Selhuber-Unkel is the founding director of the Institute for Molecular Systems Engineering and Advanced Materials (IMSEAM) and is a co-opted member of our faculty.
TOBIAS SCHWERDT
