From the University of Vienna’s Faculty of Chemistry, PhD students Lisa Panzenboeck and Richard Jacobi joined this international initiative. On 20 May, they gave talks at Pickwick’s under the theme “Green Energy and a Long Life.”
Lisa Panzenboeck, a researcher in the group of Prof. Gunda Köllensperger at the Institute of Analytical Chemistry, spoke about the fascinating world of metabolites — tiny molecules that play a vital role in the functioning of the human body. Under the title “Klein aber oho” (“Small but mighty”), she explained how analysing metabolites — which provide information about biological processes — using mass spectrometry can help improve athletic performance and detect diseases. With two practical examples, Lisa illustrated the principle of targeted and untargeted analysis and gave insights into her own research, focusing on the development of new measurement methods and data analysis strategies. The Institute, which also operates the Faculty’s Mass Spectrometry Core Facility, is a leading centre for interdisciplinary analytical chemistry with a focus on mass spectrometry-based omics and data analysis.
Richard Jacobi, a member of Prof. Leticia González’s research group, presented his work on artificial photosynthesis under the title “Photosynthesis 2.0: Inspired by nature, optimised on the computer”. He explored the use of solar energy to produce clean fuels like hydrogen, taking the audience on a journey from how natural photosynthesis works in plants to how chemists aim to replicate and improve these processes in the lab. After a brief crash course on the molecular basis of the interaction between light and matter, Richard explained how he, as a theoretical chemist, calculates models to optimise the light collection efficiency of systems based on DNA-liposome architectures. His work is part of the DFG-funded network CataLight, which develops innovative materials that harness sunlight to drive chemical reactions. The González Group is also part of the Cluster of Excellence MECS (Materials for Energy Conversion and Storage).
In a time when public trust in science is more important than ever, initiatives like Pint of Science show how open, engaging dialogue can spread knowledge and build connections. Whether it’s green energy or metabolite mapping, sometimes the best place to learn about science is over a pint.
