Thomas Henkel

Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Thomas Henkel’s research bridges the gap between traditional high-throughput screening and cutting-edge microfluidics, with a central focus on droplet-based microfluidic systems and their integration with established laboratory workflows. His major contribution lies in developing practical interfacing tools that connect microtiter plate (MTP)-based sample management with droplet microfluidics, enabling seamless loading of preconfigured sample collections into droplets and efficient dispensing of processed droplets back into MTP formats. This work, exemplified by his 2022 paper “From Microtiter Plates to Droplets—There and Back Again,” addresses a critical bottleneck in translating microfluidic innovations into routine biological and chemical screening. While his citation impact is still growing, Henkel’s approach is notable for its emphasis on compatibility and usability—key factors for adoption in real-world labs. His achievements include advancing the practical utility of droplet microfluidics for applications in drug discovery, diagnostics, and synthetic biology, making him a valuable contributor to the field’s evolution from proof-of-concept to accessible, integrated tools.