Our graduate Hanna Barta (Bachelor of Science in Applied Chemistry 2024) received the prestigious IMC Young Scientist Award for her exceptional bachelor thesis on enantioselective isochroman synthesis.
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Award-winning chemistry talent
Chemistry as a creative and logical science
Hanna Barta (22) from Hungary completed her bachelor degree in Applied Chemistry (now: Chemistry) at IMC Krems in 2024. She was recently awarded the Young Scientist Award 2025 for her outstanding bachelor thesis titled: “Enantioselective Isochroman Synthesis via Tertiary Carbocation Formation” – a project that impressed the academic jury with its scientific depth, originality and interdisciplinary relevance.
“For me, chemistry is the perfect combination of logic, creativity, and discovery,” says Hanna. “Even small changes at the molecular level can lead to major innovations in medicine, sustainability, and many other fields.”
Strong academic foundation and personal growth at IMC Krems
She describes her time at IMC Krems as a formative period that laid the foundation for her academic career.
“The programme offered a strong academic base, modern lab facilities, and plenty of hands-on experience. What I appreciated most was the supportive, student-friendly atmosphere and the personal guidance, which truly helped me grow.”
Research experience abroad: Semester in Florida
A major highlight of her studies was her professional training semester (PTS) at the University of Florida, where she conducted research on novel organocatalysts for enantioselective reactions. Working in a state-of-the-art organic chemistry lab and attending inspiring seminars gave her valuable international exposure. “Outside the lab, we also explored Florida – and I even got to swim with the university’s triathlon team,” she recalls.
"Hanna Barta was honoured with the Young Scientist Award for her outstanding bachelor's thesis, which she completed at the University of Florida. In her research work, Ms Barta focused on the development of novel catalyst systems that are characterised by particularly high efficacy. This basic scientific study provides important insights that will enable the efficient and precise production of medically effective compounds in the future. Her work promises to open new avenues for the synthesis of important chemical substances," explains Uwe Rinner, Head of the Institute of Applied Chemistry.
From Krems to Germany and beyond: An international research career
Following graduation, Hanna moved to Germany to begin her MSc in Chemistry and currently works part-time as a research assistant at the Helmholtz Institute Erlangen–Nürnberg, specialising in polymer chemistry. Her academic journey continues to evolve, with plans already underway for her master’s thesis in collaboration with a professor in Switzerland.
“I’m excited to keep learning, exploring, and growing in the field I love.”
Recognising outstanding research talent: The IMC Young Scientist Award
Each year, IMC Krems celebrates the achievements of its most promising young researchers. The Young Scientist Award, presented during the summer graduation ceremonies, recognises outstanding bachelor and master theses across disciplines. In 2025, four graduates were honoured for work that demonstrated scientific excellence, innovation, and societal relevance.
“With the Young Scientist Award, we shine a spotlight on our best research work,” says Martin Waiguny, Head of the Academic Board. “Our students show what’s possible with curiosity, commitment, and academic ambition.”
The range of awarded projects – from health and social sciences to business topics and innovative chemistry – reflects the diverse research landscape at IMC Krems.