Prof. Dr. Johannes Brendel's research focuses on the development of functional polymers, i.e. the preparation of long molecular chains that have special functions or properties. A particular focus of his work lies on structuring these materials in the nanometer range using so-called supramolecular interactions, which order these long molecular chains. "At the University of Bayreuth, I will significantly expand my research on supramolecular structured polymers," he says. In other words, his research aims to develop polymers that can self-assemble into fibres or other nanostructures. These "self-assembled polymer fibers" can be used, for example, to transport drugs to specific sites in the body where they can selectively exert their therapeutic effect and reduce side effects. The self-assembled polymer fibers can also form liquefiable gels that can be used as artificial cell scaffolds or injectable drug depots, thus enabling new forms of therapy. In Bayreuth, Mr. Brendel will also increasingly focus on the development of new materials, such as the 3D printing of elastomers. These are materials that - like rubber bands - can stretch considerably and return to their original shape. However, as they are cross-linked by supramolecular bonds in this case, they can be printed in a wide variety of shapes. Structuring at the nanoscale also opens up new possibilities in the construction of organic electronics, which not only have tiny dimensions but facilitate the design of flexible circuits. With his return to Bayreuth, Prof. Brendel intends to revitalise this field of research.
