PhD in Physics/Nanotechnology

Gianluca obtained his PhD in Physics/Nanotechnology from EPFL Lausanne. He held various positions in the concentrated solar power and photovoltaics industry – among them he was Head of Research at Airlight Energy and Managing Director of Dsolar. His achievements include several patents and scientific publications, and he is the recipient of the EPFL Prix Prof. René Wasserman 2011. He co-founded Synhelion in 2016 and now holds the position of CEO, together with Philipp. Gianluca is a passionate jazz soprano saxophone player and performs regularly at concerts and jazz festivals.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering/Solar Thermochemistry, EMBA

Philipp holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from ETH Zurich since 2014. In 2018, he completed his Executive MBA at the University of Strathclyde. Philipp has more than ten years of experience in high-temperature solar chemistry and reactor engineering. For several years, he served as Operating Agent – Solar Chemistry Research for the International Energy Agency’s technology program SolarPACES. Prior to joining Synhelion, Philipp co-founded the ETH spin-off company Sunredox, which was acquired by Synhelion in 2018. He now holds the position of CEO, together with Gianluca.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering/Solar Energy

Philipp performed his PhD research in Mechanical Engineering at ETH Zurich in close collaboration with a concentrated solar power company. He joined Synhelion in 2017. Philipp has more than ten years of experience in the design, modelling, engineering, and experimental testing of high-temperature solar receivers and the optical alignment, characterization, and operation of solar concentrators. He is a passionate tennis player and participates in tournaments and team competitions.

lic. oec. HSG, CFA, Advanced Federal Diploma Expert for Accounting and Controlling

Thomas is a seasoned financial professional with a broad range of experience in Switzerland and abroad. With over two decades of financial expertise including positions as CFO, he significantly contributed to major transactions, including the sale of a large telecom company, and worked as a director at Credit Suisse in Zurich and New York. Before joining Synhelion, he served as the CFO of Bergbahnen Flumserberg and the publicly traded Poenina Holding until its merger with Burkhalter Group. He holds a Licentiate in Business Administration from the University of St. Gallen as well as an Advanced Federal Diploma as Expert for Accounting and Controlling and is a CFA charterholder. He loves spending time in the mountains. Alternatively, he enjoys water activities, both below and above the surface.

MSc in Energy Engineering

Patrick graduated with a Master of Science in Energy Engineering from RWTH Aachen University. He worked as a project engineer for the research institutions Solar Institute Jülich (SIJ) and German Aerospace Center (DLR) in the field of heliostat development and played a key role in the design and construction of Synlight, the largest artificial sun in the world. Together with Prof. Dr. Bernhard Hoffschmidt, he founded Heliokon GmbH in 2016, which has been part of Synhelion as Synhelion Germany GmbH since 2021.

Dipl.-Ing. Mechanical Engineering + Dipl.-Ing. Engineering & Business

Simon holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering with focus on aerospace technology and a degree in Engineering & Business from RWTH Aachen University. Before joining Synhelion in 2019, he worked for several years as a research engineer at the German Aerospace Center, where he gained extensive experience in the techno-economic assessment of renewable energy technologies and CSP-related software development.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering/Solar Thermochemistry

Simon received his PhD degree in Mechanical and Process Engineering from ETH Zurich. He joined Synhelion in 2018. Simon has more than six years of experience in process thermodynamics, high-temperature chemistry, experimental testing, data analysis, and numerical modeling. He published several articles in scientific journals about his research work at ETH Zurich. In 2016, Simon received the prestigious ASME Solar Energy Division Graduate Student Award for his doctoral thesis.

Certified Financial Accountant

After completing her training in wholesale and foreign trade, Stefanie worked for more than 15 years in accounting and human resources, specializing in financial accounting. Stefanie joined Synhelion in 2023. She grew up in Jülich, lives there with her family and enjoys jogging.

Vocational education wholesale and foreign trade

Sonja is a trained sales expert and has many years of experience in international sales management and as executive assistant. She joined Synhelion in 2021 and skillfully manages administrative duties to ensure the smooth operation of the Synhelion offices.

MSc in Production Engineering

David obtained his MSc in Production Engineering from RWTH Aachen University in 2022. In his master thesis he worked on the optimization of wind turbines. As he is fascinated by renewable energy, he volunteered for a non-profit student project for three years, working on affordable renewable energy solutions. David joined Synhelion in 2023 as part of the mechanical design team in Germany.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering/Solar Thermochemistry

Christoph received his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from RWTH Aachen in 2017. He has more than ten years of experience in the experimental and theoretical analysis of various alternative fuel pathways including biofuels, power-to-liquid fuels, and solar thermochemical fuels. He has published several scientific journal articles quantifying their thermodynamic, environmental, and economic potential. Christoph worked at a German research institute and in the Laboratory for Aviation and the Environment at MIT before joining Synhelion.

State-certified Electrical Engineer

Christian worked for several years as a mechatronics engineer in the robotics field. He then trained as a state-certified electrical engineer in Karlsruhe, after which he moved to the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), where he deepened his knowledge in the field of measurement and control technology. Christian has more than ten years of experience in hardware and software development. He joined Synhelion in 2019 and is our lead developer for heliostat control systems. In his free time, he enjoys sailing and skiing.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering/Thermal Energy Storage

Lukas earned his PhD in Mechanical Engineering from ETH Zurich. During his PhD and the subsequent postdoc position his research focus was on the development of novel energy storage technologies for concentrated solar power plants, solar fuel production, and electricity storage. He has authored several scientific publications and patents. In 2018, Lukas joined Synhelion as Head Thermal Systems.

MA International Philanthropy and Nonprofit Management, MA History

Driven by his interest in Corporate Social Responsibility and Strategic Corporate Philanthropy, Marco gained two Master’s degrees from the University of Bologna and the Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis. After his studies, he worked in the film industry as a unit manager for over 10 years. He joined Synhelion to pursue a career in clean energy.

BSc in Systems Engineering

Adrian is a system engineer at Synhelion, specialized in control software development and safety-related control systems. Holding a bachelor’s degree in systems engineering with a focus on industrial automation, Adrian brings several years of engineering and project management expertise in the field of renewable fuel production. Beside his work, Adrian enjoys spending time with his family and is passionate about football, Formula 1, and blockchain technology.

MSc in Mechanical Engineering, EMBA

Aron is an engineering executive with more than 15 years of experience in over 20 countries. During his Master studies at ETH Zurich, he focused on renewable energy technologies. Aron gained industrial experience around the world as a commissioning and process engineer in thermal lime processing plants. In 2014, he completed his Executive MBA at the University of Strathclyde. Afterwards, he held several managerial positions in sales and service departments at energy and construction companies. Aron founded his own clime tech company and is a passionate mountaineer and skier.

Diploma in Engineering and Electronics

David holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Technology Rapperswil. Since then, he has worked as an engineer in companies with a focus on sustainability, specializing in control, energy, and mobility technologies. Always on the lookout for new adventures, David enjoys traveling, the outdoors, sports, and is a passionate alpinist.

BSc in Industrial Engineering

Yannik is a project engineer and holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering from Aachen University of Applied Sciences. Prior to his studies, he completed an apprenticeship as an electrician in the commercial sector. In 2023, Yannik joined Synhelion, driven by a passion for sustainability and a commitment to addressing the climate crisis through his work at the company. On his days off, he enjoys traveling and outdoor activities.

CAS HR Development & Diagnostics, CAS Event Management

Olesia has a proven track record in Global HR, specializing in Learning & Development. Building on her background in Project Management, Event Management, and Tourism, she gained over 15 years of experience in Project Management and Operations Management. Olesia joined Synhelion in 2022 to support the team and accompany the growth of Synhelion by optimizing administrative and HR processes. Outside of her commitment to the company, Olesia is also active as a yoga teacher.

Design Management Diploma

Daniela holds several degrees in the fields of design, handicraft, and economics. Being interested in a broad range of design topics, she has worked for various private companies, in advertising agencies, and for universities. Her work experience ranges from graphic design to web and video productions and corporate design. She comes from the beautiful East Tyrol and enjoys going there to visit her family and to hike in the mountains.

MA in Business

Dahlia holds a degree in Business from the Zurich University of Applied Sciences. Before joining Synhelion in 2022, she worked as a communications manager at an international consulting firm and at ETH Zurich. Dahlia’s professional experience includes strategic communications, social media, writing, web, and content management. Dahlia enjoys a variety of sports, being outdoors, and exploring the world.

Certified Technical Product Designer

Maurice is an experienced 3D CAD designer and has been working in the field of machine and plant engineering for over ten years. He develops detailed 3D models, generates production and assembly drawings as well as installation plans. Since 2022, Maurice is using his skills to create a more sustainable future with Synhelion.

Tobias is pursuing a degree in Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, and Computer Engineering at RWTH Aachen University. His diverse interests and vast professional experiences bring a rich spectrum of knowledge to his work. He joined Synhelion in 2021 as a working student and is now a technical specialist in the commissioning and maintenance of heliostats as well as data acquisition and management. Tobias is a handyman at heart. In his free time, he enjoys painting and bringing small electronics projects to life.

MSc in Computational Engineering Science

Moritz studied Mechanical Engineering and Computational Engineering Science at RWTH Aachen University with a specialization in product and software development. For his master thesis, he focused on improving heliostat calibration using AI-enhanced kinematics. He joined Synhelion in 2022 and is tasked with integrating data-driven components into Synhelion’s software tools. In his spare time, Moritz enjoys outdoor activities from sea to summit.

LLM in Corporate Law

Pierre holds a Master’s degree in Corporate Law from the University of Limoges, France. He has more than 15 years of experience in procurement in the energy and financial services industries, in various countries in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. In his free time, you might find Pierre in a concert hall or a theater enjoying classical music or a good movie. He is also passionate about interior design and history, enjoys traveling, and is a keen reader.

BA in Multilingual Communication

Carmen holds a degree in Multilingual Communication from Zurich University of Applied Sciences. Before joining Synhelion in 2020, she worked as a project manager, translator, proofreader, and team leader in the language industry. At Synhelion, Carmen combines her professional experience with her passion for clean technologies and sustainability.

Dipl.-Ing. Mechanical Engineering

Vincent obtained his degrees in Mechanical Engineering from RWTH Aachen University and University of Applied Sciences Aachen. He performed research at the Solar Institute Jülich (SIJ) and the German Aerospace Center and worked as a product developer at several engineering and design companies. His achievements include several patents, and he was part of a Red Dot Design Award winning team. He joined Synhelion in 2021 and is now responsible for heliostat development, calibration, and agile transition support. Being a crafty outdoors lover, you will find Vincent on weekends hiking in the forest or on a lake with his self-made canoe.

MSc in Energy Economics and Informatics

Stefan holds a Bachelor’s degree in Renewable Energy Technologies from University of Applied Sciences Nordhausen and a Master’s degree in Energy Economics and Informatics from University of Applied Sciences Aachen. Prior to joining Synhelion, he worked as a research engineer at Solar Institute Jülich (SIJ), where he gained extensive experience in the planning, design, and construction of CSP facilities.

Dipl.-Ing. Mechanical Engineering

Matthias holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from RWTH Aachen University. He worked for eight years at the German Aerospace Center, where he acquired experience in the fields of air receivers and measurement technologies for solar tower plants. Together with colleagues he filed two patents and won the SolarPACES 2021 Technology Innovation Award. Matthias joined Synhelion in 2022 as a project engineer. In his free time he pursues his passion for sports and nature.

PhD in Mechanical Engineering/Solar Receiver

Vikas obtained his PhD in Mechanical Engineering and subsequently worked as a postdoc at ETH Zurich, where his research focused on testing and modelling of a high-temperature solar receiver, and on techno-economic modelling of solar fuels production. He obtained his MSc in Energy Science and Technology from ETH Zurich and BE in Mechanical Engineering from BITS Pilani, India. Vikas’ professional experience includes stints in production of wind turbines and automobiles, steam accumulator development, and think tank research. He enjoys hiking, cooking, and reading non-fiction.

MSc in Mechanical Engineering

Moritz performed his MSc in Mechanical Engineering at ETH Zurich. For his Master’s thesis, he commissioned and tested a solar reactor for on-sun solar fuel production in Madrid. To pursue his commitment to sustainable technologies, Moritz joined Synhelion in 2021. He enjoys immersing himself in different cultures and exploring new countries and languages.

MSc in Computational Engineering Science

Nicolas performed his MSc in Computational Engineering Science with specialization in software development and renewable energy at RWTH Aachen University. In his academic work, he focused on software communication and data distribution systems for heliostat field control. Nicolas joined Synhelion in 2022 to support the software development team. When he’s not working, you might find him hiking on a mountain or experimenting in the kitchen.

MA in Applied Linguistics

Juan holds a degree in Applied Linguistics with a specialization in Organizational Communication from the Zurich University of Applied Sciences. With extensive experience in customer and stakeholder engagement within sales, tourism, and the NGO sector, Juan brings a service-oriented approach to his role. He is committed to leveraging his skills to understand and effectively address stakeholder needs, ensuring empathetic and impactful communication in support of Synhelion’s journey toward a world connected by clean and sustainable transportation.

MSc in Mechanical Engineering, MBA

Andreas is a technology and sustainability enthusiast with work experience in engineering and program/project management in the aerospace and cybersecurity industries. Before joining Synhelion in 2024, he complemented his MSc in Mechanical Engineering from ETH Zurich with an MBA degree from Copenhagen Business School. At Synhelion, Andreas leverages his technical understanding, customer success experience, and business acumen to establish carbon-neutral solar fuels in the market. Besides work, Andreas serves on the board of a foundation for sustainable forestry and is a passionate rower.

MA in Chemical Engineering

Fabio has many years of experience in the energy industry holding various roles ranging from business development manager to manager of the technology process department. He has an extensive background in process design and in the development of new technologies. Fabio is author of several peer-reviewed publications and inventor of different patents in the field of low-carbon syngas production and conversion.

MSc in Mechanical Engineering

David obtained his MSc in Mechanical Engineering from ETH Zurich in 2019. During his Master thesis he was part of a team that demonstrated for the first time the production of drop-in fuels made entirely from sunlight and air. David joined Synhelion in 2020 as Project Engineer. He is an enthusiastic traveler who particularly enjoys discovering the Alps with his mountain bike.

MSc in Energy Economics and Informatics

Iesse holds a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Energy Economics and Informatics from University of Applied Sciences Aachen. Prior to joining Synhelion, Iesse conducted research at the Solar Institute Jülich (SIJ), where he developed several heliostat field calibration systems. In his free time, he enjoys a variety of sports, such as climbing, running, and swimming.

MSc in Mechanical Engineering

Damian graduated with a MSc in Mechanical Engineering from ETH Zurich in 2022, focusing on project management and energy science. For his Master thesis, he commissioned and tested a solar reactor for calcination and clinkerization of cement raw meal driven by solar-heated absorbing gases in Madrid. To continue his commitment to a more sustainable cement and transportation sector, Damian joined Synhelion as a Project Engineer in 2022. Being a culture and outdoor lover, you will find Damian either traveling, hiking, or doing sports.

BSc in Computer Science

Christian worked in IT support for several years before studying psychotherapy. He worked for more than 10 years in this field before deciding to return to IT by studying informatics at the University of Applied Sciences Aachen, graduating with a BSc in Computer Science. He then worked as a developer and administrator for several years before joining Synhelion. Christian is married and has a son. In his spare time, he is a musician and sound engineer, enjoys gardening, hiking, social dancing and Tango, reading and collecting vinyl records and parlor games.

MSc in Energy Engineering

Christian holds an MSc in Energy Engineering from the RWTH Aachen University. Before joining Synhelion in 2024, he worked as a project engineer and group leader at the Solar Institute Jülich. Besides managing and coordinating research projects, he prepared his PhD, gaining expertise in dynamic process simulation as well as optimizing operation and control of solar thermal power plants. He expects to complete his PhD in 2024. In his spare time, Christian enjoys outdoor activities and playing the alto saxophone.

MSc in Mechanical Engineering

Alfonso received his MSc in Mechanical Engineering from EPFL in 2021. He specialized in energy, in particular in the modelling and optimization of energy systems. During his Master thesis, he designed and modelled an industrial solar fuel production plant focusing both on the fuel synthesis part and on the process integration. Alfonso joined Synhelion in 2021 with the ambition of leading the way toward a zero-carbon based economy. In addition to playing many sports, he is also an amateur chess player.

PhD in Mechanical and Process Engineering

David received his PhD in Mechanical and Process Engineering from ETH Zurich in 2016. His research focused on the engineering and experimental testing of solar fuel reactions, thermal storage systems, and process thermodynamics. Prior to joining Synhelion in 2023, David gained industrial experience as a process engineer and project manager for large-scale thermal energy systems, covering the entire project cycle from conception to commissioning. David is a passionate football fan and enjoys cycling and playing cards.

Hans Hess is an accomplished entrepreneur, manager, investor, and engineer. Over the course of his career, he has been chairman and board member of several industrial companies and Swiss organizations, such as Swissmem, economiesuisse, and the ETH Board. He was CEO of Leica Geosystems AG, which he successfully listed at the Swiss Stock Exchange SIX. In 2006, Hans Hess founded his own company, Hanesco AG, which provides international management services and invests in Swiss companies. Hans Hess holds a Master Degree in Material Science from ETH in Zürich and a Master Degree in Business Administration from University of Southern California in Los Angeles.

Former banking executive

Chairman of Dreieck Fiduciaria SA

Daniel Rüdisüli is a seasoned investment advisor and finance expert. He is co-owner of the multi-family office Swiss KMU Partners AG, which is dedicated to sustainable and future-oriented investments with attractive returns. Daniel’s core activities are the establishment of individually tailored family office structures as well as accompanying families into a successful, stable, and safe future.

Dr. Stephan Feldhaus is the CEO of SMS Concast AG, part of the SMS group, which is a global leading partner for the metals industry. Over the course of his career, he has held several management positions within the SMS group. He is an award-winning scientist and holds a PhD in Mechanical Engineering from RWTH Aachen University.

Aldo Steinfeld (PhD University of Minnesota, 1989) is Full Professor of the Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering at ETH Zurich, where he holds the Chair of Renewable Energy Carriers. He has authored over 360 research articles in refereed scientific journals, filed 27 patents, and supervised 57 PhD theses. His contributions to science and education have been recognized with the Yellott Award by the ASME-American Society of Mechanical Engineers (2008), the European Research Council Advanced Grant (2012), the Farrington Daniels Award by the ISES-International Solar Energy Society (2013), the Heat Transfer Memorial Award (2013), the ASME Kreith Energy Award (2016), and the Sustainable Engineering Research Award by the AIChE-American Institute of Chemical Engineers (2022). Professor Steinfeld is a member of the Swiss Academy of Engineering Sciences and the Pan-American Academy of Engineering.

Since 2023, Burkhard Holder has been supporting Synhelion in the areas of quality management and global networks. Burkhard has more than 35 years of experience in key positions in the renewable energy industry, research, and energy policy initiatives. Since 2015, he has been the Managing Director of VDE Renewables. His prior roles include management positions at the VDE Group, the International Solar Energy Society (ISES), and the Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems, where he currently serves as Chairman of the Advisory Board. Notably, Burkhard has set up a research institute (SERIS) for the Singapore government and was appointed by the German government as an expert on renewable energy policy and industry development. In addition, he was the export spokesperson for the German Solar Industry Association (BSW), and advisor to the President of the European Renewables Energy Centers Agency (EUREC). Since 2023, Burkhard is a member of the Senate of the Economy of Germany

Bernhard Hoffschmidt is the Director of the Institute of Solar Research at the German Aerospace Center (DLR). His research focuses on solar thermal power stations, energy flux in porous materials, and the energy efficiency of buildings.
Besides that, he is also the Managing Director of the Brainergy Park Jülich GmbH, a project corporation of the municipalities Jülich, Titz, and Niederzier. The company is pursuing the development of a new business park in Jülich, which aims to transfer technology from the region’s research facilities into local value creation.
Hoffschmidt was born in 1964 in Cologne. He studied mechanical engineering at RWTH Aachen and completed his studies in 1992 as a graduate engineer. In the same year he began his career as a DLR solar research scientist. In 1996 he received his PhD from RWTH Aachen University.
In the period from 2004 until 2009 he set up and headed the project development division within DLR’s solar thermal pilot power plant in Jülich. The first of its kind world-wide, the power plant is based on a number of Hoffschmidt’s and DLR’s inventions. In 2010 he took over the co-direction of the Department of Solar Research at the Institute of Engineering Thermodynamics in Stuttgart, from which the Institute of Solar Research was founded in 2011.

Stefan Conrad has acquired extensive know-how through his previous positions – for example as CEO of Zurich Airport Latin America, COO of Zurich Airport, various management positions at Swissair and Swiss, as well as an airline and former military pilot.
Therefore, he has a broad experience in the areas of corporate management, business development, entrepreneurial strategy, leadership, and governance. Working in dynamic environments and solving complex challenges enables Stefan to advise on crucial management matters, to point out new solution-oriented paths, to elaborate strategic issues and support their implementation. 

1928 – 2023 †
Giorgio Mazzanti joined Synhelion in 2016 in the role of strategic advisor. As Professor for Industrial Chemistry he researched for more than 20 years at the Politecnico di Milano. He filed several patents together with Giulio Natta (Nobel Prize laureate) in the field of new polymers. For example, he invented polypropylene, the second most used plastic in the world. After his time at the Politecnico, Giorgio was Managing Director of the Montedison Group, and Executive Vice President and President of the ENI Group.