Plasma Medicine: Bridging Physics and Life Sciences for Medical Innovation

The Center for Urban Science + Progress (CUSP) at NYU Tandon welcomes you to attend the lecture Plasma Medicine: Bridging Physics and Life Sciences for Medical Innovation by Dr. Klaus-Dieter Weltmann, Chairman of the Board and Scientific Director of the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology e.V. (INP). This event will take place in Room 1201 on the 12th Floor of 370 Jay St.

About the Lecture

Plasma Medicine: Bridging Physics and Life Sciences for Medical Innovation

For over two decades, plasma medicine has been emerging as a novel field of medical research at the intersection of plasma physics and life sciences. Plasma medicine involves the application of physical plasma for therapeutic purposes. The use of cold atmospheric plasmas to support wound healing has already become a clinical reality, driven by an interdisciplinary research approach, strong fundamental and applied research, and successful technology transfer to industry. Beyond wound healing, plasma technology offers numerous therapeutic possibilities. This talk provides an introduction to plasma medicine, highlights selected therapeutic applications, presents certified medical devices, and discusses current needs and future perspectives.

About the Speaker

Prof. Dr. Klaus-Dieter Weltmann studied in Greifswald, Germany. While studying then went in Brno (CZ), Kiel and Morgantown (USA). He returned to Greifswald in 1993 to complete his doctorate in applied physics. and achieved great success.

In 1995, he joined ABB in Switzerland, where he worked worldwide in the field of high-voltage-switching technology. Weltmann began his career at ABB in high-voltage technology, initially as a researcher and project manager at ABB Corporate Research in Baden-Dättwil. He quickly advanced to lead the high-voltage systems research group and later became Head of R&D for Gas-Insulated Switchgear (GIS) at ABB High Voltage Technology Ltd in Zurich. From 2002 to 2003, he served as Deputy General Manager for Gas-Insulated Switch Systems, overseeing the "Metal-clad Switch Systems" portfolio. Alongside his industrial roles, he lectured on control engineering and systems at the University of Applied Sciences in Zurich. In 2003, he returned to Vorpommern to lead INP Greifswald, bringing extensive international experience in science and industry. Since 2003, he has been Chairman of the Board and Scientific Director of the Leibniz Institute for Plasma Science and Technology e.V. (INP) in Greifswald, Germany. There he successfully promoted the transfer of knowledge and technology, increased income from contract research tenfold within two years, and initiated five spin-offs. His motto “From Idea to Prototype” characterizes the development and research at INP.

The institute cooperates with partners from shipbuilding and aircraft construction, the automotive industry, medical technology, electrical engineering, textile industry and others. Prof. Weltmann's current work focuses on life science, bioeconomy, plasma sources, sub-areas of the H2 economy, and knowledge and technology transfer. He is visiting professor at the PI of the University of New York and member of various committees, including the Board of Trustees for the health industry in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania and the advisory board for the “Regional Innovation Strategy” hydrogen of the Ministry of Economic Affairs.

Visitor Information

This event will take place in Room 1201 at 370 Jay St. Please visit the NYU Tandon website for directions and a campus map. Advance registration through Eventbrite is required for campus access at NYU for external guests.

About CUSP at NYU Tandon

The Center for Urban Science + Progress (CUSP) at NYU Tandon is an interdisciplinary center dedicated to applying science, technology, engineering, math, and social sciences to serve urban communities worldwide.

Founded as a partnership between NYU and the City of New York, CUSP leads research, educational, and entrepreneurial initiatives that advance the science of cities. By applying novel insights to urban issues, we develop data- and technology-driven approaches that drive positive impact. With an additional focus on training future leaders, CUSP offers interdisciplinary academic programs in applied urban science and informatics for graduate students and professionals.

CUSP also engages with stakeholders across city agencies, start-ups, industry players, community-based organizations, and nonprofits to address urgent socioeconomic, environmental, and infrastructural challenges. The center’s ultimate objective is to improve urban quality of life by using data to innovate and refine inclusive, equitable, and sustainable practices for cities everywhere.