Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award 2026 presented at analytica – Analytik Jena again supports as sponsor

The Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award is presented by the German Working Group for Analytical Spectroscopy (DAAS) of the German Chemical Society (GDCh) and recognizes outstanding scientific achievements in the field of analytical spectroscopy. It is one of the most important distinctions for excellent research in this field and a key instrument for supporting scientific talent in advanced career stages. 

Prof. Dr. David Clases Receives the Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award 2026 

This year’s award goes to Prof. Dr. David Clases of the University of Graz. His work in the field of elemental mass spectrometry, particularly ICP-TOF-MS (inductively coupled plasma time-of-flight mass spectrometry), has distinguished him significantly. 

Prof. Dr. Clases is regarded internationally as one of the most innovative young researchers in analytical spectroscopy. His research at the interface of ICP-MS, nanostructure analytics, and hybrid measurement methods has attracted worldwide attention in recent years. 

His groundbreaking contributions include: 

• Advancements in high-resolution ICP-TOF-MS, enabling simultaneous, rapid, and highly accurate analysis of complex particle systems. 

• Multimodal approaches that combine ICP-MS with complementary methods such as optical traps or Raman spectroscopy – a crucial step toward capturing both elemental and molecular information in a single measurement setup. 

• Important progress in particle characterization, relevant for environmental analytics, materials research, and biomedical questions. 

With more than 70 publications, numerous international recognitions – including the JAAS Emerging Investigator Lectureship 2025 – and strong visibility in scientific committees and conferences, Prof. Dr. Clases is considered a "rising star" in spectroscopy. 

Jury Statement 

The DAAS jury, consisting of representatives from universities, research institutions, and industry, sees particularly high scientific and technological value in Prof. Dr. Clases’ work. 

His research significantly contributes to further advancing the capabilities of ICP-TOF-MS – a technology regarded as a key component of future laboratory analytics due to its multi-element capabilities and coupling options. 

Expert Opinions 

Prof. Dr. Carsten Engelhard, Chair of DAAS and Jury Chair of the Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award, emphasizes the importance of the award: 

“The Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award has a long tradition and is highly regarded nationally and internationally. It recognizes exceptional scientific achievements in analytical chemistry, from optical spectroscopy to mass spectrometric analysis. The work of Prof. Dr. Clases is outstanding in its scientific depth and practical relevance and has high transfer potential for industrial, environmental, and materials analytics.” 

Analytik Jena as a Promoter of Scientific Excellence 

Analytik Jena is proud to have supported the Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award for many years and to contribute to the promotion of innovative analytical research. 

“The scientific insights recognized by this award shape the global development of analytical methods. As a technology provider, we see it as our responsibility to make cutting-edge research visible and to support young scientists,” says Oliver Klaeffling, Managing Director of Analytik Jena GmbH+Co. KG. 

About the Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award 

The award is presented every two years and is aimed at outstanding researchers in the field of analytical spectroscopy. It has a decades-long tradition within the GDCh Division of Analytical Chemistry and was first awarded in 1990. The award ceremony takes place as part of the analytica conference in Munich. 

Photos of the Bunsen-Kirchhoff Award can be found at the following link: messe-muenchen.canto.global/b/PF1S6 

Please note the copyright: “analytica / Messe München”. 

For the images in the attachment, the following copyright notice applies: “c/o Analytik Jena”