Klaus Müllen: Honoring the pioneer in nanographene chemistry

Klaus Müllen's works cover a broad range of science, ranging from NMR/ESR spectroscopy or electrochemistry to polymer and nanoscience. After the Chemistry diploma in 1969 (early work with Emanuel Vogel/Cologne University), he received his doctorate 1971 at University Basel (working Fabian Gerson) on investigations bridged annulenes. During postdoctoral period ETH Zurich Jean François Michel Oth), also got habilitation 1977. In 1979, started as professor organic chemistry Cologne, 1983 Mainz. 1989, was appointed Director Max-Planck-Institute for Polymer Research, 1995, awarded an honorary Gutenberg Research College Müllen responsible scientific supervisor 280 Ph.D. students ca. 150 researchers. More than 70 alumni group(s) are now working professors all over world. A tremendous amount results has been presented more 2100 publications. is most highly cited German chemist date, h-index 187. His research last decades mainly focused field molecular, macromolecular, supramolecular synthetic chemistry. The extensive culminated synthesizing previously unattainable large polycyclic aromatic compounds. Hereby, many two-dimensional benzene-based structures represent examples defined, small- medium-sized subunits graphene lattices (so-called nanostructures nanographenes). Nanographenes seen today important materials future (e.g., energy conversion data processing). Among these nanoribbons (GNRs) different widths distinct their edges. couple years, powerful on-surface synthesis methods such (macro)molecules have developed, close collaboration Roman Fasel group Switzerland. Recently, new robust topological quantum phases could be observed on-surface-synthesized nanoribbons. useful properties some molecules nanoparticles found entry imaging reagents biomedical applications photocatalysts synthesis. For achievements fields chemistry, countless national international awards. To mention only few them: He doctoral degree 2021 Strasbourg, France, recognize contribution world ideas, culture, science. 2020, Leonardo do Vinci Award outstanding activity physical Herman Staudinger 2016 recognized into hydrocarbons 2D macromolecules electronic devices. Senate Max Planck Society National Academy Leopoldina. From 2008 2009, served President Chemists, largest chemical society Europe, 30,000 members academia, industry, education. This Special Issue brings together world-renowned researchers who were influenced by work, collaborated, part long-spanning career, became friends colleagues. issue honors its impact science education, which is, without any doubt, unique extraordinary modern