We are delighted to announce that Paul Schweng, DoSChem PhD student at the Institute of Materials Chemistry in the group of Assoc. Prof. Robert Woodward, has received the Theodor Körner Prize 2025. This prestigious award, previously won by renowned physicist Anton Zeilinger (1980), recognizes outstanding projects by young scientists and artists.

Paul’s project, “Sustainable materials for atmospheric water harvesting – Ensuring water security for a liveable future”, received the Innovation and Technology Award from the Austrian Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation, and Technology (BMK).

The research addresses the pressing global issue of water scarcity through an interdisciplinary approach combining materials science, process engineering, and analytical chemistry. The project focuses on developing low-cost materials capable of extracting moisture from air, even under extremely dry conditions. Using solar-powered technology, it offers a sustainable alternative to energy-intensive desalination processes. This innovative work combines scientific excellence with high societal relevance and contributes significantly to global water security.

Paul completed his Bachelor at the University of Vienna and a Master in Chemistry and Materials Technology, a joint program between the University of Vienna and TU Wien. During his Master’s thesis, he specialized in Atmospheric Water Harvesting, which he continues in his doctoral research. He also gained experience in CO₂ capture technologies during a visiting period at Imperial College London.

The Theodor Körner Fund, founded in 1953, annually honors exceptional projects by young researchers and artists. The formal award ceremony will take place on 10 June 2026.

More about the award: Theodor Körner Prize 2025