University of Basel

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Phase structure

Geometry Matters: Controlling Water Dynamics in Lipidic Environments

Water behaves fundamentally differently in biological environments than in bulk. Inside cells, for instance, water is confined in crowded settings where it is strongly coupled to surrounding interfaces. In their latest study, researchers…

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Obituary Prof. Hanspeter Huber

The University of Basel bids farewell to Prof. Dr. Hanspeter HuberProfessor of Physical Chemistry who passed away on November 5, 2025, at the age of 82. Prof. Dr. Hanspeter Huber was Professor of Physical Chemistry at the University of…

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In search of a more sustainable chemistry

Catalysts speed up chemical reactions and are essential for industry; but there is still some room for improvement. Murielle Delley wants to make catalysts more efficient and more sustainable.

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Chemistry between the stars

Astrochemist Jutta Toscano studies how molecules react with one another in the coldest and darkest regions of space. Her aim: to better understand the nature of the universe.

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Chemists develop molecule for important step toward artificial photosynthesis

A research team from the University of Basel has developed a new molecule modeled on plant photosynthesis: under the influence of light, it stores two positive and two negative charges at the same time. The aim is to convert sunlight into…

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Lighting Up Zirconia: Eliminating and Seeing Surface Emission in Luminescent Nanomaterials

In nanomaterials, surface phenomena play a crucial role — and luminescence is no exception. Our recent research shows that by carefully engineering zirconia (ZrO₂) nanocrystals doped with lanthanide ions such as europium (Eu³⁺, shown in the…

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New Insights into Sustainable Photochemistry: Cr, Co, and Fe in the Spotlight

The research team led by Professor Oliver S. Wenger at the University of Basel has published three new articles in the "Journal of the American Chemical Society" that deepen our understanding of the photophysics and photochemistry of…

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In Focus: Silas Battisti is searching for the right chemistry

Once he wanted to make wine, but today he tinkers with the synthesis of natural substances – and the perfect pizza dough. Doctoral student Silas Battisti has a feel for perfect interaction. In every respect.

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Engineered enzyme to precisely build complex molecules

Researchers at the University of Basel have repurposed a natural enzyme so that it catalyzes a highly challenging chemical reaction. Their approach opens new possibilities for synthesizing complex molecules—such as pharmaceuticals and fine…

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Breaking Rules in Photochemistry: Unlocking Hidden Light Energy

Traditional synthetic chemistry often relies on multi-step procedures and thermal activation, making it both time consuming and energy intensive. Photochemistry offers a compelling alternative: by using light as a direct energy source,…

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