Catalysts | Interview with Prof. Dr. Frank Hollmann, the Session Chair of the 3rd International Electronic Conference on Catalysis Sciences, 23–25 April 2025
Prof. Dr. Frank Hollmann is an Associate Professor in the Biocatalysis group at the Department of Biotechnology of the Delft University of Technology, the Netherlands. He studied chemistry at the University of Bonn (Germany) and he obtained his Ph.D. from the Swiss Federal University of Technology (ETH) in Zurich (Switzerland), followed by a postdoctoral stay at the Max-Planck-Institute for Coal Research (Mulheim, Germany). His research interest centers around the application of biocatalysis for more sustainable chemical synthesis. Particularly, he is excited about combining photochemistry with biocatalysis to enable transformations that are not straightforward using classical chemical technologies.
He will be the session chair of the session “Biocatalysis” at the 3rd International Electronic Conference on Catalysis Sciences. This conference is organized online, between 23–25 April 2025, and serves as a premier platform for catalysis researchers and enthusiasts to share their latest findings, innovative ideas, and practical experiences.
The following is a short interview with Prof. Dr. Frank Hollmann:
1. Could you please briefly introduce yourself?
I am a researcher dedicated to advancing biocatalytic oxyfunctionalization with a strong emphasis on green chemistry. My work focuses on making the chemical industry more sustainable by developing and applying biocatalysis in oxidation reactions. I also enjoy mentoring students and sharing my passion for sustainable chemistry.
2. What do you think of the development status and trends of open access publishing?
Open access publishing is a pivotal development in academia, democratizing knowledge and making high-quality research freely available to a global audience. The trend towards open access has become increasingly relevant, especially in promoting transparency, accelerating scientific collaboration, and reducing barriers to accessing research. With the rise of open data initiatives and more equitable publication models, I believe open access will continue to shape the future of scientific publishing positively.
3. What is your impression of the Catalysts journal?
Catalysts stands out as a reputable platform that fosters the exchange of groundbreaking research in catalysis, including biocatalysis. It has consistently showcased a diverse range of studies that contribute to advancements in both fundamental and applied catalysis. The journal’s emphasis on high-quality, peer-reviewed content and its commitment to open access makes it a valuable resource for scientists aiming to address pressing challenges in sustainability and green chemistry.
4. What do you think will be the research hotspots in the field of catalysts in the next few years, and can you describe them to us?
In the coming years, several promising research directions in catalysis are expected to take shape. A significant focus will be on biocatalytic and hybrid approaches that merge the precision of enzyme catalysis with traditional chemical methods, all aimed at achieving sustainable synthesis. The integration of artificial intelligence in enzyme engineering is set to revolutionize the field, enhancing the design of enzymes for greater selectivity and efficiency. Moreover, cascade reactions, which enable multi-step processes in a single setup, will be at the forefront of sustainable catalysis efforts. There will also be increasing attention on harnessing renewable energy sources, such as light and electricity, to drive catalytic processes with minimal environmental impact.
5. Can you provide any advice on academic research for young scholars in related fields?
For young scholars, I recommend embracing interdisciplinary collaboration, as it often leads to innovative solutions. Being open to new technologies and methods, such as machine learning in enzyme design, can also be a tremendous asset. Building a strong foundation in both theory and practical skills is crucial, but so is staying curious and willing to challenge conventional approaches. Additionally, finding a mentor who inspires and challenges you can be transformative, as I've witnessed firsthand when working with outstanding students who have shaped my understanding.
6. Could you kindly share with us your thoughts and outlook on this E-conference?
This E-conference is an exciting opportunity to share the latest advancements in our field and foster global collaboration without the carbon footprint of traditional events. It offers a platform for discussions and the exchange of ideas among scientists from diverse backgrounds, which is especially crucial as we tackle sustainability challenges together. I am looking forward to the interdisciplinary dialogues that will emerge and the chance to learn from peers while sharing insights from my work.
7. Could you please provide a brief introduction to the session you are chairing, titled “Biocatalysis”?
The “Biocatalysis” session will highlight the latest advances and practical applications of enzymes in chemical synthesis, focusing on their role in making processes more sustainable and efficient. We will explore cutting-edge research in enzyme engineering, novel catalytic pathways, and strategies for integrating biocatalysts into industrial processes. This session aims to inspire innovative thinking and showcase how biocatalysis is transforming traditional chemical practices to reduce environmental impact and improve reaction selectivity and efficiency.