“The control of chemical reactions on a microscopic level has been a chemists dream”, writes Markus Kowalewski,  who is assistant professor in Fysikum’s division of Chemical Physics for about a year.   

Markus is a theoretical physicist  with unique expertise  in the complex calculations and computer simulations needed to assess the possibilities to control chemical reactions through light fields – theoretical expertise that comes timely in view of recent experimental breakthroughs.  Possible applications of this exciting approach are improved solar cells or protecting materials from UV light damage. The European Research Council (ERC) has decided to fund his research with about 15 million Swedish crowns.  This is one of only 14 ERC starting grants in Sweden this year. 

Congratulations Markus!