Introducing: Lars Hildebrandt
What is your qualifying background?
I am working as a PhD student (in the 3rd year) in the Institute of Coastal Research. In my leisure time, I really enjoy doing sport and especially playing soccer.
After high school graduation (Abitur) in Lübeck, I studied Chemistry and Business studies at Kiel University (CAU) in order to receive a Bachelor’s and subsequently a Master’s degree. Until my master’s thesis, I put particular emphasis on pharmacology, toxicology and organic chemistry.
In the frame of my Master’s thesis at the Alfred-Wegener-Institute (on Heligoland), I had the opportunity to analyze a set of North Sea sediment samples for microplastic particles. This work drew my attention to particulate plastic pollution. As a PhD student of the Marine Bioanalytical Chemistry department, I really enjoy gaining profound practical experiences and knowledge about different aspects of analytical chemistry, which I consider most inspiring.
How would you describe your working daily routine?
This question is difficult to answer briefly since every day is different and poses a mixture of variable scientific paper and lab work but also includes sampling in the field and supervision of Bachelor and Master Students. We have recently constructed and built an in-house microplastic-sampling device that was used to take samples in the Indian Ocean. Currently, we are testing a new state-of-the-art laser instrument for microplastic analysis. From time to time, I also participate in international scientific conferences, training courses and cooperations with other research centers and universities. This diverse work environment is – besides my nice colleagues – what I appreciate most in the Marine Bioanalytical Chemistry department.
What has been your biggest success so far?
From a professional perspective, I would mention my department’s publications, which I am involved in as the first author. About certain private and even more important successes, I would like to remain silent.
Do you have a big goal?
My first mid-term goal is completing my PhD thesis. The long-term goal is to contribute (small pieces) to a better understanding of the extent and important aspects of environmental pollution with (particulate) plastic.
In a wider context, I hope that generation of data and information on specific chemical aspects of micro- and nanoplastic pollution of aquatic environments leads to a more sustainable management of plastic waste.
Do you have any personal distinctive mark?
Despite my partially grey hair, to which my younger soccer friends often refer in jokey way, I am not sure, if I have something like that.
