The Department of Polymer Engineering and Science welcomes Dr Steffen Stelzer, a proven expert in composite materials, as its new professor of the Insitute of Processing of Composites and Design for Recycling. Stelzer, who grew up in Leoben and graduated from Polymer Engineering and Science in Leoben, combines sound scientific qualifications with many years of industrial experience – from high-tech developments in microelectronics and lightweight construction to large-scale projects in industrial plant engineering.
‘I bring two things with me that are important to me: roots and wings,’ says Stelzer, referring to his Leoben origins and his international career. ‘The roots stand for down-to-earthness and substance in research and teaching. The wings stand for a change of perspective, cooperation and innovation at the interfaces between disciplines.’
Profile with practical experience: from test laboratory to 500 million innovation project
After completing his studies and doctorate in Polymer Engineering and Science at the Montanuniversität, Stelzer helped set up the component testing facility at the WPK and the Reliability Lab, and was involved in European standardisation committees (ESIS). He then moved into industry, where he was responsible for development at a Styrian high-tech company and later managed global projects as managing director – including in the fields of 5G, satellite communication and lightweight construction for aviation. Most recently, he played a key role in setting up a new, highly automated factory at a leading printed circuit board and substrate manufacturer – a flagship project for microelectronics in Europe. ‘Helping to shape an industrial project of this magnitude, from the construction pit to ongoing operations, was the experience of a lifetime,’ says Stelzer.
Research: Understanding processes, using data, closing cycles
Stelzer's research focuses on the methodological understanding of processes in composite material processing – from material and resin behaviour to sensor technology and robust, data-supported manufacturing. The aim is to apply this expertise both in classic continuous fibre applications and in new fields such as electronics/microelectronics, data centre technologies and mobility. A second focus is ‘design for recycling’: designing composite systems in such a way that they can be efficiently recycled at the end of their life cycle. ‘The question “What happens next?” must be answered at the design stage. This is technologically challenging – and central to sustainability and competitiveness in Europe,’ emphasises Stelzer.
Teaching: research-oriented, interdisciplinary, application-oriented
In teaching, Stelzer focuses on research-oriented modules, interdisciplinarity and practical relevance – with the aim of introducing students to real-world problems at an early stage. ‘Both are needed: excellent theory and implementation skills. Those who understand processes and are able to bring solutions to the shop floor will also be indispensable in an AI-dominated future,’ says Stelzer. New emphases are planned in:
- Process methodology and simulation, sensor technology and data integration
- Applications in electronics/microelectronics and multi-material composites
- Sustainability: design for recycling, life cycle assessment, bio-based and sustainable materials
- Industrial collaborations and project-based teaching formats
Building bridges between university and industry
Thanks to his network – ranging from European research partners to technology companies in Silicon Valley and Asia – Stelzer wants to expand collaborations and bring new projects to Leoben. ‘Good research today is done in collaboration. Networks open up opportunities that you don't have on your own – and they give students direct access to future fields.’
Personally rooted in the region
As a native of Leoben, Stelzer is looking forward to returning to his alma mater. In his free time, he enjoys hiking in the mountains and is active as a tour guide in the Alpine Club, combining his passion for materials in his private life as well: from homemade skis to high-performance bikes. ‘Many of our everyday adventures are stories about materials – that's what makes our field so tangible and exciting.’
‘Moving mountains – that's more than just a motto,’ Stelzer summarises. ‘It's a mission to develop technologies in such a way that they are ecologically sound, economically viable and socially effective. I want to work on this with students, colleagues and partners.’
Further information
Prof. Steffen Stelzer
Processing of Composites and Design for Recycling Group
Email: steffen.stelzer(at)unileoben.ac.at
Tel.: 03842 402 2700
