In Memory of Dr. Matthias Görlach

The Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI) mourns the loss of a valued colleague, Dr. Matthias Görlach. Matthias Görlach passed away on March 15, 2023 after a long and serious illness. He worked at the FLI as a Senior Research Group Leader until 2015. Subsequently, he headed the Core Facilities and Services. After his retirement in February 2021, he remained closely connected to the FLI as a consultant.

The FLI and its employees owe a great deal to Matthias Görlach. As a molecular biologist who mastered the technology of protein characterization at the highest scientific level, he reorganized the entire research infrastructure at the FLI in 2014/15 and promoted its professionalization. He was the ombudsman at the FLI for many years and championed a culture of scientific integrity. In doing so, he always enjoyed the trust of his colleagues – as an experienced scientist with immensely detailed knowledge and as an extremely considerate and communicative person. In his undertakings, he always combined pragmatism, optimism, and consideration. “I am on a diplomatic mission,” is how he himself described his approach.

Matthias Görlach worked tirelessly for the benefit of the FLI, both in research and in the area of scientific organization. His death leaves a painful gap, but his achievements will continue to be felt and appreciated in the future. The FLI remains grateful to Dr. Görlach and will always honor his memory.

A book of condolence will be available at the FLI main building (FLI-1), Beutenbergstraße 11, 07745 Jena, from Tuesday, March 21, 2023.