Steffen Holleufer

I am postdoctoral researcher at InterCat, studying the composition and surface chemistry of interstellar dust grains

I completed my PhD in experimental astrochemistry in February 2026, wherein my research focused on synthesising interstellar silicate model systems in ultra-high vacuum conditions. To grow thin silicate films in situ, I employed a combination of e-beam evaporated metals and thermally cracked molecular oxygen. I characterised the morphology and chemical composition of silicate thin films using several high-resolution characterisation techniques, including X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy, X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy. 

In my time as a postdoctoral researcher, I will expand on the work completed during my PhD studies. Specifically, I will study the catalytic activity of silicate surfaces under conditions relevant to astrochemistry. Furthermore, I will undertake studies on 2D silica thin films and the erosion of interstellar carbonaceous dust grain analogues.