Soft Condensed Matter group
We study the physics of soft matter model systems and from these insights we fabricate new mesostructured materials.
Soft condensed matter systems are materials which deform easily under the influence of external fields such as electric fields, shear or gravity. They contain structures with length scales that are much larger than atomic or molecular dimensions, and display dynamics that are much slower. Nevertheless, their structure and dynamics are still governed by thermal fluctuations. Our research tools consist of confocal microscopy, scattering methods, colloid synthesis, computer simulations, and theory.
Researchers from the Soft Condensed Matter group contribute to:
Marjolein Dijkstra Awarded the 2025 Physica Prize
The Physica Prize, the most prestigious award for physicists in the Netherlands, has been awarded this year to Prof. Dr. Marjolein Dijkstra, a professor at Utrecht University. Dijkstra is recognized as a leading figure in the field of 'soft matter', a branch of physics focused on the design and understanding of soft materials, such as polymers, colloids and liquid crystals. She has made significant contributions to advancing physics in the Netherlands, not only through her mentorship of dozens of PhD students and postdoctoral researchers but also through her active involvement in shaping physics policy.
Alfons van Blaaderen
Professor of Soft Condensed Matter
“Connecting multiple length scales is the next big challenge."