ROBERT SOJKA – PHD STUDENT

What brought me here?
I’m not sure when it all began, but I do know that by the age of nine I had already written in my brother’s friends’ book that I wanted to become a chemist. That early curiosity probably led me to study chemistry at Heidelberg University. After a truly great time there, I felt ready to take on a new challenge in a different place. With the city of Freiburg, which is known for its high quality of life, and the Schnitzer Lab, where I can pursue the interest in organic synthesis and catalysis that I developed during my studies, I found the perfect match for this next step.
What makes me happy?
Being surrounded by good people. Whether it’s spending quality time with family, enjoying long barbecue evenings with some Ebbelwoi and friends back home, or cooking with former fellow students from Heidelberg, where the food disappears in seconds compared to the time it took to prepare it. I also really enjoy exploring the beautiful nature of the Dreiländereck region, especially on a good hike.
What is my current smartphone background? Why?
My smartphone background changes every time I tap the screen, displaying a random selection of landscape photos I’ve taken during vacations and weekend trips. Each picture brings back memories of those experiences and makes me smile, reminding me of the great moments along the way.
Since 2026
PhD in Organic Chemistry
University of Freiburg, Germany
Thesis with Dr. T. Schnitzer on “Development of Boronic Acid Catalyst for the Sustainable Synthesis of Amides and Peptides Using Artificial Intelligence”
2023-2025
Master of Science (Chemistry)
Heidelberg University, Germany
Thesis with Prof. E. Blasco on “3D Printing of Polypyrrole via Digital Light Processing”
2020-2023
Bachelor of Science (Chemistry)
Heidelberg University, Germany
Thesis with Prof. M. Mastalerz on “Synthetic Approach towards Cycloparaphenylenes”
2017-2020
Apprenticeship (Chemical Laboratory Technician)
Merck KGaA | Peter-Behrens-Schule, Darmstadt, Germany
2016-2017
Voluntary Social Year
Johanniter Unfallhilfe, Griesheim, Germany
2008-2016
Abitur
Albrecht-Dürer-Schule, Weiterstadt, Germany
