What are the main topics or questions that drive your research?

In my research, I focus on synthetic molecular communication (MC) and alternative approaches to computing, particularly biological or biohybrid computing. Synthetic MC takes inspiration from natural MC, in which messenger molecules serve as information carriers. While natural MC has evolved over millions of years, synthetic MC engineers at least one component of the system – for example, using synthetic cells as transmitters. This raises research questions such as: How can we reliably encode, transmit, and decode information using biochemical signals? and What are the limits of information capacity in MC channels? Visionary applications include targeted drug delivery or continuous health monitoring for advanced medicine.
My work on biological computing explores how principles of synthetic biology can be leveraged to perform computational tasks in an energy-efficient and inherently parallel manner. This includes investigating biochemical circuits and various computational architectures that go beyond the classical Turing paradigm. Key research questions are: How can we design biological systems that process information predictably? and What computational problems are best suited for biochemical implementations?

What inspired you to pursue your current field of work?

I was inspired to enter this field by the challenge of looking beyond traditional, electromagnetic-wave-based communication and computing. Many established concepts from classical communication theory can be translated to alternative paradigms – yet the reverse is also true: Unconventional systems often reveal principles that can inspire strategies in traditional engineering. At the same time, these non-traditional systems come with unique constraints, noise sources, and environmental influences that change how information can be encoded, transmitted, and processed. Addressing these challenges requires a highly interdisciplinary approach.

What excites you most about being part of CeTI?

CeTI is an incredible network of fantastic researchers, driven by innovation. I am particularly excited about contributing to a community where ideas from engineering, computer science, psychology, and design intersect to create solutions with tangible societal impact.

Which challenge or question has recently sparked your curiosity?

Lately, I have been reading a paper on how insights from information theory and synthetic biology can be combined to quantify the limits of communication in living systems. From my point of view, in an interdisciplinary research field, the challenge to solve lies in bridging various disciplines that speak different “languages.“

How do you like to recharge or spend your time outside of work?

I love doing sports – maybe you remember the active break in COVID times. To recharge, I play badminton or go for a run. If I have more free time outside of work, I give training sessions for kids or teach future badminton coaches to get their official license.