Each year hundreds of the best and brightest researchers gather in Lindau, Germany, for the Nobel Laureate Meeting. There, the newest generation of scientists mingles with Nobel Prize winners and discusses their work and ideas. The 2013 meeting is dedicated to chemistry and will involve young researchers from 78 different countries. In anticipation of the event, which will take place from June 30 through July 5, we are highlighting a group of attendees under 30 who represent the future of chemistry. The following profile is the 28th in a series of 30.
Name: Artur Ciesielski
Age: 29
Born: Środa Wielkopolska, Poland
Nationality: Polish
Current position: Postdoctoral research at the Institute for Supramolecular Science and Engineering at the University of Strasbourg in France
Education: Master’s degree in organic chemistry from Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań, Poland; Doctoral degree in physical chemistry from the University of Strasbourg
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What is your field of research?
I'm a postdoc working on supramolecular chemistry at surfaces and interfaces. Supramolecular, or “beyond molecular,” means this chemistry deals with systems more complex than molecules or involving several or many molecules. My current research interests include the design of supramolecular systems, self-assembly of nanopatterns including the graphene-based systems and their investigation with tools such as scanning tunneling microscopy and liquid-phase exfoliation of graphite.
What drew you to chemistry, and to that research area in particular?
Since I was a child I have been very curious about the world around me, and I have been determined to understand how simple, everyday things and tools function. That’s probably how everything started. Above all, my greatest attraction to science is rooted in the chance to express my curiosity, creativity and dedication to develop something helpful—whether it’s something that cannot be materialized, like knowledge, or something more “touchable,” like single graphene flakes. Nearly 10 years ago I had the privilege of meeting and working with Jean-Marie Lehn, an experience that was the beginning of my journey with supramolecular chemistry. A few years later I met Paolo Samorì, who offered me the opportunity to express my scientific skills and creativity. I was always lucky to be surrounded by talented scientists who have contributed to and shaped my scientific career.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
In 10 years I hope I’m still working with the same passion on scientific projects like I do now. Furthermore, I would like to use my knowledge on supramolecular chemistry as a tool to tackle physico-chemical problems in graphene production from another angle.
Who are your scientific heroes?
Emil Fischer and Jean-Marie Lehn.
What activities outside of chemistry do you most enjoy?
Spending time with my wife and kids and bookworming fantasy and sci-fi.
What do you hope to gain from this year’s Lindau meeting?
During my short scientific career I was given a chance to meet and collaborate with one of the Nobel Prize laureates in chemistry: Jean-Marie Lehn. I learned from that experience that how important short brainstorm meetings with world-class experts are, and ultimately how exchanging ideas with pioneers in the research field could be used in my personal research. I strongly believe that the 63rd Lindau Nobel Laureate Meeting will give me the opportunity to meet, discuss and even exchange ideas with top-class scientists from all over the world.
Are there any Nobelists whom you are particularly excited to meet?
Sir Harold Kroto.
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