Dr. Fabian Straske is a visiting scientist in the research group of Prof. Dr. Volkmar Vill at the Institute of Organic Chemistry, University of Hamburg, and an R&D Manager at Henkel in Hamburg. His research bridges biochemistry, process engineering and cosmetic chemistry with the aim of developing plant-based and biotechnology-derived dyes for sustainable hair colorations and translating them into industrial applications. Methodologically, his work focuses on identifying new raw materials suitable for hair dyeing—particularly of botanical origin—identifying the chromophoric components and their biochemistry, and elucidating the mechanisms of dye–hair fiber interactions and their translation into modern applications. To this end, he uses established extraction workflows, spectroscopic methods, light and electron microscopy, and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS). He studied Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and earned his PhD in Molecular Biosciences from the University of Bayreuth.

For inquiries regarding collaborative projects and thesis supervision with an industry focus, please send an email.

The following courses are available under the title ‘Hair Colouring Techniques’:

• Lecture
• Seminar
• Work placement