The research group studies the fundamental physics of novel materials under dimensional constraints as well as novel low-dimensional materials. This includes investigations of their formation, structural evolution and of the physics of their unique properties. Multiscale phenomena of metals, alloys and polymers with micro/nanocrystalline structures, as well as carbon nanostructures including graphene membranes are in the focus of research. The research group comprehensively tackles structure-property relationships, physical mechanisms of complex defect configurations and their interactions. Systems far from thermodynamic equilibrium including micro/nanocrystalline, disordered and glassy structures are investigated. The four research focuses of the group are Complex Systems and Hybrid Materials, Electron Microscopy, Micromaterials and Nanocrystalline Materials.