[Text sent by B-MRS members]
We, Brazilian former students and researchers who had the privilege of pursuing graduate and postdoctoral studies or undertaking research internships at Technische Universität Darmstadt under the supervision of Professor Heinz von Seggern, deeply mourn his passing on January 7th – 2026, following his battle with brain cancer.
Professor von Seggern, retired from TU Darmstadt, was an outstanding scientist and a generous mentor. He was a valued and long-standing scientific collaborator of many researchers in Brazil and an active and enthusiastic participant in the Brazilian Materials Research Society (B-MRS) meetings, contributing not only with his expertise but also with his genuine passion for science. He attended several B-MRS meetings, including Natal (2007 and 2018), being one of the Plenary Speakers in 2018, Rio de Janeiro (2009 and 2015), Gramado (2011), Florianópolis (2012), Campos do Jordão (2013) and João Pessoa (2014).
Beyond a fruitful scientific relationship, Professor Heinz built with us — his former students and collaborators — a profound, warm, and fraternal friendship. His mentorship extended far beyond the laboratory and the classroom, leaving a lasting impact on our professional paths and personal lives.
Alongside the deep sense of loss, Professor Heinz von Seggern leaves a void marked by his exceptional competence, unwavering dedication, and, above all, the joy with which he embraced his scientific and academic activities. His enthusiasm, kindness, and humanity will be remembered as vividly as his scientific legacy.
He will be greatly missed.
Prof. Gregório Couto Faria (IFSC/USP), Prof. Ivan H Bechtold (UFSC), Prof. Roberto Mendonça Faria (IFSC/USP), Prof. Alberto Giacometti (IFSC/USP), Prof. Clarissa de Almeida Olivati (UNESP-Pres. Prudente), Prof. Juliana Eccher (UFSC), Prof. Françoise Toledo Reis (UFSC), Prof. Douglas José Coutinho (UTFPR-Toledo), Prof. Lucas Fugikawa-Santos (UNESP-Rio Claro).