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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.

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Developing new catalysts for the future

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Work with great colleagues in a modern environment

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Find new challenges in our Apprentice Program

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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:

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Minerva’s Daughters

April 27, 2026

Sophia Engelhardt works as a chemical laboratory technician in Dr. Michael Felderhoff’s hydrogen storage research group. In this interview, she discusses what makes the training program at the institute challenging yet rewarding, and why it’s enjoyable to be directly involved in research as an apprentice.

A Solution to Alkene Alkylation

April 30, 2026

Chemists at the Institute have developed a practical two-step method for alkylating alkenes via thianthrenation, addressing a long-standing synthetic challenge.

Pantazis gives special Lecture in the US

May 15, 2026

Dimitrios Pantazis received the Paul Harteck Lectureship from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute for his outstanding contributions to physical chemistry, specifically in understanding photosynthesis's molecular mechanisms.

Satoshi Maeda Receives the Karl Ziegler Visiting Professorship

May 12, 2026

The theoretical chemist Satoshi Maeda is being honored with the Karl Ziegler Visiting Professorship. Professor Maeda is internationally recognized for his work in theoretical chemistry and computational reaction mechanisms. This year, he receives the ...

Recognition for Innovative Research in Catalysis

May 06, 2026

Christos Sidiropoulos, a doctoral student in Prof. Dr. Claudia Weidenthaler's research group, received the Advanced Synthesis & Catalysis Award from Wiley.

The Max-Planck-Institut für Kohlenforschung (Fundation under Private Law) Mourns the Loss of its Long-Standing Director Prof. Dr. Dr. h. c. Manfred T. REETZ

May 04, 2026

At a glance:

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Our Research

Selective and energy saving transformation of chemicals and natural products.

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Staff

Direct access to the staff directory

Prof. Helma Wennemers (ETH Zurich)

May 20, 2026 04:00 PM - 05:15 PM (Local Time Germany)

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

Karl Ziegler Gastprofessur 2026 - Festvorlesung mit Prof. Dr. Satoshi Maeda, Hokkaido University

May 27, 2026 04:00 PM - 05:30 PM (Local Time Germany)

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

Karl Ziegler Lecture 2026 - Seminar with Prof. Dr. Satoshi Maeda, Hokkaido University

May 28, 2026 04:00 PM - 05:30 PM (Local Time Germany)

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

Job and Career:

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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.

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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 ...