The World of Electrochemistry Comes to Bayreuth: Record Attendance at GDCh Electrochemistry 2026

Over four days, the conference provided an international platform for discussing the latest developments in electrochemistry. The scientific programme featured 200 presentations, including five plenary lectures and 20 invited keynote talks, alongside 201 poster presentations. Contributions ranged from fundamental electrochemical research and industrial applications to the growing role of artificial intelligence in scientific discovery.

Particular interest centred on presentations addressing next-generation battery materials that extend beyond today’s commercially established lithium-ion technology. Considerable attention was also given to innovative methods for investigating electrochemical systems under real operating conditions, offering valuable insights into processes occurring within batteries and other energy storage technologies. Contributions in the fields of electrosynthesis and Power-to-X likewise attracted strong interest. These presentations demonstrated how electricity generated from renewable sources such as wind and solar power can be used to convert anthropogenic carbon dioxide into valuable chemical feedstocks and products.

Alongside the scientific programme, the conference offered numerous opportunities for personal exchange and networking. Researchers from different disciplines and countries came together during a Czech-German beer tasting event in the University’s “Frischraum” and at the conference dinner in the Oberfrankenhalle. Many participants highlighted the welcoming and collegial atmosphere of the event in their feedback, with several describing the University of Bayreuth as “arguably the most beautiful campus in Germany”. Others praised the conference dinner, which combined regional cuisine with an evening of informal networking and celebration.

“The exceptionally positive response from the international electrochemistry community is very rewarding,” said Professors Christina Roth and Roland Marschall, who chaired the conference. “The strong participation and outstanding quality of the scientific contributions demonstrated the remarkable dynamism of electrochemistry today and the importance of international collaboration in developing solutions for the energy transition, sustainability, and industrial transformation.”

The success of the conference was made possible by the commitment of the local organising team and the close partnership with the Czech Chemical Society. At the same time, the event highlighted the University of Bayreuth’s strong position in electrochemical research. This was particularly evident in the numerous contributions from the Bavarian Center for Battery Technology (BayBatt), which showcased current advances in battery research and demonstrated Bayreuth’s expertise in this strategically important field. By hosting GDCh Electrochemistry 2026, the University of Bayreuth once again provided an important forum for scientific exchange in a discipline that is central to the energy transition and the development of a sustainable industrial future.