14 Apr Mass spectrometry meets optics: Bunsen-Kirchhoff Prize 2026
The Bunsen-Kirchhoff Prize for Analytical Spectroscopy was presented on 26 March 2026 during the Analytica Conference in Munich. This year’s award goes to Professor David Clases of the University of Graz. According to the jury, he has distinguished himself through his work in elemental mass spectrometry, particularly in the field of ICP-TOF-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry).
Clases is internationally recognised as an innovative young researcher in analytical spectroscopy. In recent years, his work at the interface of ICP-MS, nanostructure analysis and hybrid measurement techniques has attracted significant attention. His research includes multimodal approaches that combine ICP-MS with complementary methods such as optical trapping and Raman spectroscopy, enabling the simultaneous acquisition of elemental and molecular information within a single analytical workflow.
According to Analytik Jena, the company has supported the Bunsen-Kirchhoff Prize for many years and is sponsoring this year’s award with prize money of €3,000.
“The scientific achievements recognised by this award shape the advancement of analytical methods worldwide. As a technology provider, we see it as our responsibility to highlight outstanding research and support the next generation of scientists,” said Oliver Klaeffling, Managing Director of Analytik Jena.
The Bunsen-Kirchhoff Prize is awarded annually in recognition of outstanding contributions to analytical spectroscopy and aims to promote early-career researchers in the field.
Image caption: Presentation of the Bunsen-Kirchhoff Prize during the Analytica Conference in Munich. Image: Analytik Jena
Source and image: www.analytik-jena.com