The Birkel Lab @ ASU
Our team works on the interface between experimental inorganic solid-state chemistry and materials scienceBirkel Group members
Learn about diverse synthesis techniques and the structures and properties of layered solids and 2D materialsArizona State University
Our current home is the Biodesign C Building on Tempe campus
We commit
...to an inclusive and safe environment
....to open channels of communication
...to respect for all group members
...to advocate for diversity in science and beyond
Follow our team on linkedin
birkel Team logo
The Birkel Lab logo visually expresses our group’s research vision — the discovery, synthesis, and understanding of advanced inorganic and layered materials through innovative chemistry. Every element in the design symbolizes a core aspect of what we do and value.
⚛️ Central HexagonThe hexagonal frame represents crystalline order and the atomic lattices characteristic of layered and 2D materials such as MAX phases and MXenes. Its geometry echoes the structural motifs that define our work in solid-state and materials chemistry.
🧪 Flask at the CenterThe round-bottom flask anchors the logo in synthetic chemistry and synthesis science — it signifies hands-on experimentation and the creation of new materials through synthesis and design. It also highlights the chemical foundations that drive our materials innovations.
⚡Lightning Bolt and FlameThese symbols embody energy and transformation. The lightning bolt represents non-conventional energy inputs, such as microwave-assisted heating or spark plasma sintering, while the flame signifies high-temperature reactions central to the formation of solids. They also demonstrate our focus on energy materials and materials that can be used under extreme conditions.
🌿 Green LeafThe leaf symbolizes sustainability and our commitment to environmentally responsible materials synthesis. It reflects the lab’s vision of advancing chemistry that contributes to a more sustainable energy and materials future.
🧩 Multicolored SquaresThe small colored squares evoke the periodic table of elements, representing chemical diversity and the vast compositional space explored in our work — from carbides and nitrides to oxides and borides. Their colors underscore the creativity and variety inherent in modern materials chemistry.
✨ Gold and Green GradientsThe combination of gold and green symbolizes excellence, innovation, and growth. Gold reflects the value and precision of advanced materials research, while green ties the work to sustainability and renewal.
📚 Layered Lines and Geometric MotifsSubtle layered structures and grid lines reference 2D and layered materials, intergrowths, and stacked crystal architectures. They visually communicate the lab’s interest in understanding how atomic arrangement and composition govern function.
🔶 Text: “BIRKEL LAB — Materials Chemistry”The integrated typography connects the lab’s identity directly with its mission. “Materials Chemistry” situates the group at the intersection of inorganic synthesis, solid-state chemistry, and materials science, encapsulating the interdisciplinary nature of our research.
2nd Materialz winter school 2025 was a success
Read the ASU News article here.
Upcoming Group presentations
Presenter | Place | Date |
Christina
Niels | Jan 26 - 31, 2025
Jan 26 - 31, 2025 | |
Isabel | 49th International Conference and Expo on Advanced Ceramics and Composites (ICACC2025), talk | Jan 26 - 31, 2025 |
Christina | Materials for Sustainable Development Conference (MATSUS25), Sevilla, Spain
invited talk | March 3 - 7, 2025 |
Isabel | Materials for Sustainable Development Conference (MATSUS25), Sevilla, Spain
poster | March 3 - 7, 2025 |
Christina | 16th Pacific Rim Conference on Ceramic and Glass Technology including Glass & Optical Materials Division Meeting (GOMD 2025), Vancouver, CA
invited talk | May 4 - 9, 2025 |
Christina | 21st International Conference on Diffusion in Solids and Liquids (DSL2025), Naples, Italy
invited talk (SS8, 2D materials) | June 23-27, 2025 |
Niels | 21st International Conference on Diffusion in Solids and Liquids (DSL2025), Naples, Italy
talk (SS3, Non-conventional synthesis) | June 23-27, 2025 |
Christina | American Chemical Society Fall 2025 Meeting, Washington, DC
invited talk | August 17-21, 2025 |
Christina | GDCh Science Forum Chemistry 2025Karlsruhe, Germanyinvited talk (tandem) | Oct 1, 2025 |
Christina | Materials Research Society 2025 Fall Meeting, Boston
invited talk | Nov 30 - Dec 5 |