PRESS RELEASE 2024-11-01
Materials Scientist Christian Müller, Professor at Chalmers University of Technology in Gothenburg, is the receiver of the Norblad-Ekstrand medal 2024.
Christian holds a M.Sci. and B.A. in Natural Sciences from Cambridge University (2004) as well as a Dr. Sc. in Materials Science from the Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zürich (2008). After a one-year research fellowship at the Institut de Ciència de Materials de Barcelona (ICMAB-CSIC) followed by a post-doctoral project at Linköpings universitet, Christian started working at Chalmers in 2012 – first as an assistant and then an associate professor. He has been a full professor since 2017.
Can you briefly summarize your research?
– I am a materials scientist with a background in polymer science and organic electronics. My group focuses on the physical chemistry of organic semiconductors, polymer blends and composites, and develops new plastic materials for use in the fields of wearable electronics and energy technology.
Chemistry provides a uniquely powerful toolbox that is essential for every aspect of materials science.
Is there anything that you are extra proud of?
– I have the privilege to work with some incredible PhD students and Postdocs, and I am proud of how each and every single one of them develops as a scientist.
How did you decide to work with chemistry?
– Chemistry provides a uniquely powerful toolbox that is essential for every aspect of materials science.
How would you describe the importance of chemistry to a young person who has not yet decided what to study or work with?
– Global warming, pollution, increasing inequality and the rapid depletion of resources constitute tremendous challenges to our planet, and to us as a species. We can only find answers if science and engineering work in concert with economics and the social sciences. Chemistry is one important science, without which we do not stand a chance. Sometimes we will need to use “less chemistry” and sometimes “new chemistry” will offer the right solution. Please help us to make a difference!
How does it feel to receive the Norblad-Ekstrand medal?
– I am truly honored for the recognition and would like to express my deepest gratitude to my students, my colleagues and my family for their support and perseverance.
Is there any chemist that you look up to?
– Stephanie Kwolek. She followed her intuition, and ignored the skepticism of her co-workers, when she discovered that liquid-crystalline solutions of aromatic polyamides can be spun into high-strength fibers.
SCS2025
The award ceremony will be held at the 3rd National Meeting of the Swedish Chemical Society, SCS2025, where Christian Müller is among the featured speakers.
Taking place from June 16 to 18, 2025, at the Steam Hotel in Västerås—just an hour by train from Stockholm—SCS2025 promises to be a memorable event. Representatives from all fields of chemistry are invited, and the program includes inspiring presentations, interactive poster sessions, and ample networking opportunities.
Who should listen to your talk?
– I would be excited if not everyone in the audience was a chemist. A diverse crowd is the best basis for an honest discussion!
Read more about SCS2025 at scs2025.se.
Read more about Christian Müller and his research here: Chalmers Research: Christian Müller
For questions, please contact:
Agnes Rinaldo-Matthis, Head of the Swedish Chemical Society (Svenska Kemisamfundet)
agnes.rinaldo.matthis@kemisamfundet.se