Professor Ulrich S. Schubert stands as a preeminent figure in the field of chemistry, renowned for his transformative contributions to macromolecular and materials science. He currently serves as Chair of Organic Chemistry and Macromolecular Chemistry at Friedrich Schiller University Jena while directing both the Jena Center for Soft Matter and the Center for Energy and Environmental Chemistry Jena. Since joining the university in 2007, he has held numerous leadership positions including director of the Laboratory of Organic and Macromolecular Chemistry, vice dean and dean of the Faculty for Chemistry and Earth Sciences, and spokesperson for major research initiatives. His distinguished career reflects a remarkable trajectory of academic excellence and institutional leadership that has significantly elevated Jena's profile in materials chemistry and energy research.
Professor Schubert's groundbreaking research program spans metallo-supramolecular polymers, tailored functional polymers and nanoparticles, responsive materials, and polymer-based energy storage systems, with his team's development of metal-free redox flow batteries representing a paradigm shift in sustainable energy technology. His seminal 2015 Nature publication introducing this innovative battery technology garnered international acclaim and continues to influence the direction of next-generation energy storage research worldwide. With an impressive scholarly record exceeding 1,150 publications, 59,100 citations, and an h-index of 108, he has firmly established himself among the most influential chemists of his generation. His research impact extends beyond academia through 52 patents or patent applications, 35 of which have been successfully transferred to industry, demonstrating the practical relevance and commercial viability of his scientific innovations.
As a visionary leader, Professor Schubert has initiated five company spin-offs and two company establishments while serving as founding ambassador of the K1 Gründerservice start-up service at FSU Jena. His recent ERC Advanced Grant for the FutureBAT project underscores the European Union's recognition of his pioneering approach to creating resource-saving and sustainable energy storage solutions for the future. Currently serving as an external scientific member of the Max Planck Society and as an elected fellow of multiple prestigious academies including acatech and the National Academy of Inventors, he continues to shape the global research agenda in materials chemistry and energy science. His ongoing work promises to further advance the development of sustainable energy technologies, positioning his laboratory at the forefront of addressing one of humanity's most pressing challenges through innovative chemical solutions.
