After more than 15 years of dedicated service as Editor-in-Chief, Professor Henrik Rudolph will step down from his role. Since assuming the position in 2011, Prof. Rudolph has guided Applied Surface Science through a period of sustained growth and development, strengthening its reputation as a leading platform for high-quality research in applied physics and chemistry of surfaces and interfaces. Under his leadership, the journal has expanded its global reach, enhanced its scientific scope, and maintained rigorous editorial standards.

In recognition of his significant contributions and continued commitment to the field, Prof. Rudolph will take on a new role within Elsevier’s surface science family of journals as Advisory Editor. In this capacity, he will continue to provide strategic guidance and support across the journal portfolio.

Succeeding Prof. Rudolph as Editor-in-Chief is Professor Jennifer Strunk (TUM School of Natural Sciences), who has been an integral member of the Applied Surface Science editorial team since joining in 2019. Prof. Strunk brings extensive expertise in catalysis and surface science, along with a strong track record of editorial leadership and community engagement.

Prof. Strunk will assume the role of Editor-in-Chief from July 1^st, 2026. 

This transition reflects both continuity and renewal for Applied Surface Science. Building on the strong foundation established by Prof. Rudolph, Prof. Strunk will lead the journal forward, continuing to support the dissemination of innovative and impactful research across the surface science community.

The publisher and editorial team extend their sincere gratitude to Prof. Rudolph for his outstanding leadership and welcome Prof. Strunk to her new role as Editor-in-Chief.

More information and links

• Prof. Strunk's Chair of Industrial Chemistry and Heterogeneous Catalysis https://www.ch.nat.tum.de/ic/home/
• Applied Surface Science https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/applied-surface-science 

Original article: https://www.sciencedirect.com/journal/applied-surface-science/about/news/celebrating-professor-henrik-rudolph-s-leadership-at-applied-surface-science-and-welcoming-new-editor-in-chief-professor-jennifer-strunk