Sergio Ioppolo

I am Associate Professor in the Department of Physics and Astronomy at Aarhus University and leader of the Space Ice Group. My research explores how molecular complexity emerges in interstellar space and evolves during the formation of stars and planets. By investigating the origin and fate of molecules in cosmic ices, I seek to understand how planetary systems acquire the chemical ingredients that may contribute to the emergence of life.

My work has helped establish that complex organic molecules can form in cold interstellar ices through non-diffusive chemistry. I initiated and led the first laboratory demonstration of non-energetic glycine formation under prestellar conditions, showing that amino-acid chemistry can begin before a star forms. More recently, I have contributed to demonstrating peptide-forming chemistry under astrophysical conditions, extending the known pathway from amino acids to the molecular building blocks of proteins in space.

My research investigates how physical and chemical processes shape the composition of cosmic ices throughout the star and planet formation process. I study how molecular complexity emerges, evolves, and survives in interstellar and circumstellar environments, and which chemical signatures are ultimately inherited by planetary systems.

To address these questions, I combine laboratory experiments, astrochemical modelling, and astronomical observations. My work provides the molecular data and physical constraints needed to test scenarios for molecular inheritance and chemical reset during planet formation and to interpret observations from facilities such as JWST and ALMA. A long-term objective is to establish quantitative and reproducible standards for laboratory astrochemistry, enabling robust comparisons between experiments, models, and observations.

My teaching is research-led and focuses on developing independent scientific judgement, quantitative reasoning, and the ability to connect theory, experiment, modelling, and observations. I teach and mentor researchers across the BSc, MSc, PhD, and postdoctoral levels, with a strong emphasis on research-based learning and progressive development towards scientific independence. To date, I have supervised or co-supervised researchers from undergraduate to postdoctoral level across institutions in Denmark, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the United States, and elsewhere in Europe.

As Head of the MSc Degree Programmes in Physics at Aarhus University, I contribute to curriculum development, quality assurance, and the integration of advanced teaching with the department's research strengths. My educational practice is supported by a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice, Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy, and formal training in PhD supervision.