Gernot Renger (1937–2013): his life, Max-Volmer Laboratory, and photosynthesis research

Abstract

Gernot Renger (October 23, 1937-January 12, 2013), one of the leading biophysicists in the field of photosynthesis research, studied and worked at the Max-Volmer-Institute (MVI) of the Technische Universität Berlin, Germany, for more than 50 years, and thus witnessed the rise and decline of photosynthesis research at this institute, which at its prime was one of the leading centers in this field. We present a tribute to Gernot Renger's work and life in the context of the history of photosynthesis research of that period, with special focus on the MVI. Gernot will be remembered for his thought-provoking questions and his boundless enthusiasm for science.

Govindjee’s 90th birthday – Congratulations from friends and colleagues

“…I remember a historical lecture, after which we sat in Bertold Brecht's cellar nearby. Finally, I had the honor to write a commemoration on the late Gernot Renger [56], with Govindjee as Historical Corner Editor. So happy birthday to you, dear Gov, and as much health as possible!…”

Thomas John Wydrzynski (8 July 1947–16 March 2018)

“…This started a period of nearly 7 years (1985–1991) on ‘soft’ research money. Thanks to receiving a prestigious one-year Humboldt fellowship, he was able to associate with the research group of Gernot Renger (Siggel et al 2016) at the Technical University (TU) Berlin in Germany. This first period in Berlin was split into two blocks by a 4-month research visit to Yorinao Inoue at Rikagaku Kenkyūjyo (RIKEN), Japan, which was financed by a Japanese Versailles fellowship.…”