Single-molecule microscopy, AI-assisted nanomedicine, and light-controlled DNA structures: With the 2026 Nano Innovation Award, LMU’s Center for NanoScience (CeNS), together with CeNS spin-offs, has once again recognized application-oriented doctoral theses in nanotechnology. The LMU Center for NanoScience and four LMU spin-off companies are once again honoring innovative doctoral projects with high application potential.
This year’s award recipients are Lars Richter (LMU Department of Chemistry), Felix Sieber-Schäfer (LMU Department of Pharmacy), and Svetozar Gavrilovic (Max Planck Institute for Biochemistry). The CeNS Nano Innovation Award annually recognizes innovative doctoral theses with application and transfer potential in the field of nanoscience and is open to doctoral candidates in Bavaria.
Visualization of Biomolecular Dynamics
Lars Richter co-developed a single-molecule microscopy method in Professor Philip Tinnefeld’s research group. It uses DNA nanotechnology to arrange DNA strands perpendicular to graphene. The fluorescence of a dye allows researchers to measure how DNA or DNA-protein complexes change dynamically. This makes movements and structural changes visible with high spatial and temporal resolution.
AI for RNA Nanocarriers
Felix Sieber-Schäfer worked in Professor Olivia Merkel’s research group on data-driven methods for RNA carrier systems. He combined machine learning, molecular dynamics simulations, and experimental formulation research to more systematically identify suitable lipid- and polymer-based nanoparticles.
Light-Controlled DNA Structures
In Professor Petra Schwille’s research group, Svetozar Gavrilovic developed a platform that enables the targeted assembly of DNA structures on artificial membranes using light. DNA building blocks are activated at specific sites by UV light, allowing control over when and where the structures grow. In the long term, this could lead to approaches for artificial cell systems or membrane-like materials.
The 2026 Nano Innovation Award is presented by CeNS in collaboration with attocube systems, ibidi, Nanion Technologies, and NanoTemper Technologies. The four CeNS spin-offs are providing prize money of 4,000, 3,000, and 2,000 euros. The award ceremony took place on July 17, 2026, at the “CeNS meets Industry” event held at the LMU Faculty of Physics.