Dr. Michael Markus Lerch

Michael Lerch is currently a postdoctoral fellow working with Prof. Joanna Aizenberg at Harvard University (supported by a NWO Rubicon grant). His research focuses on microstructured liquid crystalline surfaces with self-regulated motion and feedback-controlled optically active hydrogels. He completed his Ph.D. (cum laude) in organic chemistry under the supervision of Prof. Ben L. Feringa at the University of Groningen, where he worked on controlling biological systems with light. During his Ph.D. he developed orthogonal photoswitching and laid the foundations for an understanding of the photoswitching mechanism of donor-acceptor Stenhouse adducts.

In August 2021, Michael will start his own research group at the University of Groningen. The Lerch lab will draw inspiration from biological development to create hybrid materials with the ability to self-regulate, coordinate their action, and communicate. Ph.D. positions are currently available.

ORCID: 0000-0003-1765-0301