As of March 1, Prof. Dr. Benjamin Dietzek-Ivanšić has taken on the role of Scientific Director and Executive Board Member at the Leibniz Institute of Surface Engineering (Leibniz IOM). He also accepted a professorship in Applied Physics at the University of Leipzig. We warmly congratulate him on this important milestone!

We say goodbye to Prof. Dr. Benjamin Dietzek-Ivanšić as he steps into his new role as Scientific Director at Leibniz-IOM. As Deputy Scientific Director and Head of the Functional Interfaces Research Department at Leibniz IPHT, he has made a lasting impact on our institute—through his dedication, scientific excellence, and vision for innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration. As a driving force behind many projects and a passionate mentor to young scientists, he has helped shape our institute both professionally and personally.

His official inauguration at Leibniz IOM was a great start, filled with warm words, inspiring perspectives, and a clear vision for the future. A highlight of the event was the ceremonial handover of the key by Prof. Dr. André Anders, who successfully led the institute for many years. The Leibniz IOM team created a fitting and heartfelt setting for the occasion, while the many guests from science, politics, and industry underscored the institute’s strong reputation and bright future.

We sincerely thank Benjamin Dietzek-Ivanšić for his time with us, his openness, and his commitment to advancing science and our institute. We wish him all the best in his new role and look forward to continuing and strengthening the collaboration between Leibniz-IPHT and Leibniz-IOM.