Max-Planck-Institut für Chemie

The Max Planck Institute for Chemistry in Mainz investigates the Earth system and chemical processes in the atmosphere as well as the interactions between air, water, earth and mankind.Scientists conduct experiments in laboratories, and also collect samples and data during field campaigns utilizing airplanes, ships and vehicles. The practical work is complemented with mathematical models that simulate chemical, physical and biological processes from molecular to global scales.
The goal is to find out, for example, if and how air pollution affects the atmosphere, climate and health. Particularly well-known scientists of the institute are the Nobel laureates Richard Willstätter, Otto Hahn and Paul Crutzen. About 300 people are currently employed at the MPIC divided into four divisions and additional groups. It carries the epithet Otto Hahn Institute in honor of its former director and president of the Max Planck Society.