11 April 2025
Professor Christoph Brabec, a leading figure in materials science and a pioneer in next-generation photovoltaics and solution-processed electronics, has been elected a full member of the Bavarian Academy of Sciences and Humanities. The honour recognises his outstanding contributions to sustainable energy technologies and advanced materials research.
Professor Brabec is Director of the Helmholtz Institute Erlangen-Nürnberg for Renewable Energy (IET-2), a branch office of Forschungszentrum Jülich. There, he heads the research devision High-Throughput Methods in Photovoltaics. At the same time, he holds the Chair of Materials for Electronics and Energy Technology at Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg. Brabec regularly appears in the list of the world's most highly cited researchers.
His research focuses on the development of novel materials and manufacturing processes for affordable, sustainable energy technologies - particularly solar cells based on organic and inorganic solution-processed semiconductors. His work also includes the design of autonomous research systems capable of independently identifying and optimising new materials and production methods. With this, Brabec aims to significantly accelerate the transfer of scientific discoveries to industrial application - boosting the competitiveness of the regional economy in the process.
Membership in the Bavarian Academy of Sciences is one of the highest scientific honors in Bavaria. According to the statutes, all members must have contributed to a "significant expansion of knowledge" in their field through their research. Self-nomination is not possible.
Founded in 1759, the Bavarian Academy of Sciences and Humanities is the largest and one of the strongest academies among Germany's eight state academies. Alongside supporting early-career researchers, the Academy promotes interdisciplinary dialogue between science and society and offers independent scientific advice to policymakers. The Academy now has 212 full members, 103 corresponding members, 23 associate members and two honorary members.
Contact Person
- Institute of Energy Technologies (IET)
- Helmholtz Institute Erlangen-Nürnberg for Renewable Energy (IET-2 /HI ERN)
