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The new director of the MPI, Dr. Josep Cornella, in his research department.

Rethinking catalysis – from tradition to the future

Dr. Josep Cornellà appointed Director at the Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung

An exterior view of the lecture hall building

Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung

The Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung pursues basic research in all fields of catalysis. The central theme pervading all Departments is basic research in the catalytic transformation of compounds and materials with the highest degree of chemo-, regio- and stereoselectivity under conditions which maximize efficient use of natural resources.

A spacious chemical laboratory where a scientist is working

Developing new catalysts for the future

Several employees are sitting at tables in the lecture hall building and talking to each other.

Work with great colleagues in a modern environment

An apprentice in a lab coat works on a machine.

Find new challenges in our Apprentice Program

A scientist examines a chemical compound under a microscope.

High precision equipment delivers maximum insight for our research

Several service units are supporting the research at the Institute with their competences in analytical techniques and ultra-modern instrumental equipment.

Current Topics:

Minerva’s Daughters

October 01, 2025

Jolina Keßler's workday involves analyzing samples and determining enantiomeric ratios in gas chromatography. She enjoys the mix of routine tasks and new challenges. In our Minervas’ Daughters interview, she tells us about her plans for the future and her role as chair of the Youth Council.

A collage for the event “100 years of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis”

100 Years of Fischer-Tropsch Process

April 30, 2025

From 5 to 7 May 2025, Mülheim an der Ruhr will become a meeting place for international researchers from science and industry: A top-class scientific conference will honour the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis - a chemical process for the production of liquid fuels that was discovered 100 years ago at our institute and is more relevant than ever today.

Negishi Lectureship for Alois Fürstner

November 10, 2025

Since 2021 the Purdue University in West Lafayette has been honoring a scientist with the Negishi Lectureship. This year, Alois Fürstner received the prestigious award.

On the trail of cable bacteria

November 03, 2025

The Volkswagen Foundation supports a special research project involving the Max Planck Institutes in Mülheim. In this project, scientists are investigating the secrets of so-called cable bacteria.

Cutting-edge research meets businesses

October 29, 2025

Dr. Josep Cornellà awarded distinguished lectures at UC Berkeley and the University of Rochester

October 23, 2025

Dr. Josep Cornellà of the Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung will deliver distinguished lectures at UC Berkeley and the University of Rochester.

At a glance:

A female chemist working in a laboratory

Our Research

Selective and energy saving transformation of chemicals and natural products.

The large lecture hall at the institute was filled to capacity with guests.

Staff

Direct access to the staff directory

GDCh Lecture: Prof. Adam Slabon (Bergische Universität Wuppertal, DE)

Nov 13, 2025 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM (Local Time Germany)

Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung, Room: Grand Lecture Hall

JCF Christmas Lecture with: Prof. Metin Tolan

Nov 27, 2025 05:00 PM - 06:15 PM (Local Time Germany)

Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung, Hörsaalgebäude, Eingang Lembkestraße 7, 45470 Mülheim an der Ruhr, Room: Grand Lecture Hall

Job and Career:

Young scientists stand in the institute's lecture hall building and exchange ideas.

Research and work

The focus of the research at the MPI für Kohlenforschung is on cutting edge topics in the field of chemical transformations. Cooperation of specialists in many areas is mandatory for maintaining a top level in our fundamental research, the ultimate goal of all research efforts at institute. You want to join our team? This is where you find information on our career opportunities.

The training manager is in the laboratory with trainees.

Apprentice Program

The Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung provides apprenticeships for professional training in different disciplines. Technicians for chemical and physical laboratories as well as mechanics and office workers are educated according to highest standards. At present, about 30 apprentices ...