A chemist and a cat lover

Meet our new doctoral candidate Alina Bach!

We’re happy to introduce you to one of our newest members of the IMPRS-APS community: Alina Bach, a chemist and a cat lover! Alina has recently joined Prof. Jürgen Hauer’s “Dynamic Spectroscopies” group at the Technical University of Munich.  

What’s your main research focus for your PhD?


In my PhD, I aim to investigate light-harvesting mechanisms in marine photosynthetic organisms. These complex systems operate within a challenging blue-green absorption range, which requires advanced spectroscopic techniques. A significant part of my work involves optimizing and building custom spectroscopic setups to enable the exploration of these phenomena.

What excites you most about this field?


I'm fascinated by the complexity and adaptability of these light-harvesting systems. While the core principle of photosynthesis—absorbing light and funneling it to a reaction center—is universal among oxygenic organisms, each system is uniquely adapted to its specific environmental conditions. This diversity makes studying their mechanisms both challenging and intellectually rewarding.

What and where did you study?


I completed my Bachelor's in Chemistry at the University of Freiburg and then pursued a Master's degree at the Technical University of Munich. Through the support of Prof. Hauer, I had the opportunity to conduct my Master’s thesis with Gabriela Schlau-Cohen at MIT. I started my PhD in the Hauer group in May 2025.

What attracted you to the IMPRS-APS program?


I regularly collaborate with biologists who provide samples, theoreticians who support simulations, and physicists with expertise in spectroscopy. Without these interdisciplinary collaborations and communication, my research would hardly be possible. The IMPRS-APS program offers an ideal platform to connect with researchers beyond the field of chemistry, attend interdisciplinary conferences, and explore seminars and workshops that expand my horizons. Staying curious beyond my core topic is something I truly value.

What skills do you want to develop during your PhD?


A PhD is as much about personal development as it is about academic achievement. While becoming an expert in my field is important, I believe that improved resilience, time management, and self-organization will be even more crucial for my long-term career.

What’s a fun fact or hobby you enjoy outside research?


I have two Bengal cats, Mint and Momo. They're incredibly active and intelligent—we've even trained them to do tricks and go for walks in the park! It often surprises people, but it's an excellent way for us to bond and for them to burn off energy.

Thanks for the interview and welcome to the IMPRS-APS!