Hierarchical and chiral structures predicted to form in complex block copolymer melts, read more here. Image from Kirkensgaard et al, PNAS, 2014.
Field of Research
In general my research is centered around mesoscale self-assembly and particularly the formation of geometrically and topologically complex structures in soft matter systems, both synthetic systems like block copolymers and amphiphilic molecules and from various biological systems, for example photosynthetic membranes, diatom frustules and biomacromolecules like starch. I have combined expertise in coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulations of soft matter self-assembly and in structural investigations using small-angle x-ray and neutron scattering techniques. In particular, I have been the daily responsible for the Niels Bohr Institute small-angle x-ray scattering instrument since it became operational in the summer of 2010. In practice this means I have been running the majority of the scientific measurements on the instrument and successfully integrated the instrument into a variety of projects making structural studies within synthetic biology, food science, electrocatalysts, lipid and fatty acid polymorphism, biopolymers and complex synthetic polymers among others. I routinely go to international large scale facilities to do neutron scattering or synchrotron x-ray scattering if needed. In the menubar above you can find more information about my publications and opportunities for students at all levels.