About us

The nanoshape Story

nanoshape GmbH is a spin-off of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT), Germany. Since our founding in 2022, our mission has been clear: we want to bring state-of-the-art nanotechnology from the laboratory into practical application.

What began as a research-driven idea to mimic nature’s antimicrobial surfaces has since evolved into a scalable technology platform. Inspired by the nanoscale structures found on dragonfly wings, we developed a method to modify metallic surfaces so that they naturally repel bacteria - without the use of coatings, chemicals, or antibiotics. This biomimetic approach opens up new possibilities for safer, more sustainable, and longer-lasting solutions.

Today, nanoshape stands at the intersection of research and industry. Building on our scientific foundation, we are transforming groundbreaking insights into practical applications. Our goal is to become a key enabler of functional surface technologies across multiple industries - starting with medical implants, where the potential to reduce infections and improve patient outcomes is most urgent.

But our vision extends far beyond healthcare. Surfaces define how components perform, last, and interact with their environment. That is why our technology has applications across industries: in automotive, where optimized surfaces can reduce friction and wear; in aerospace, where reliability and precision are critical; in energy, where durability drives efficiency; and in advanced filtration, where tailored surfaces unlock entirely new possibilities.

What sets us apart is our ability to translate pioneering research into robust, scalable, and customizable solutions. We are not just a research team - we are a company driven by real-world impact. Our goal is to empower industries with the tools they need to solve today’s pressing challenges while building a foundation for tomorrow’s innovations.

With a strong focus on nanotechnology and surface innovation, Patrick drives the technological and strategic direction of nanoshape. Combining deep expertise in micro- and nanotechnology with an entrepreneurial mindset, he leads the development of scalable processes that bring functional surfaces to industrial and medical applications. He bridges science and business to shape the future of surface technology.

The Founders

Dr. Patrick Doll

Chief Technology Officer

Litsy Hüschelrath

Chief Executive Officer

With a sharp sense for strategy and communication, Litsy shapes the business side of nanoshape.
She drives market positioning, partnerships, and operations to bring our technology into real-world applications. With a background in materials science and industrial engineering, she connects technical understanding with entrepreneurial thinking.

Our Team

At nanoshape, innovation happens where diverse expertise meets a shared vision. Our team unites scientists and materials specialists dedicated to turning groundbreaking research into practical solutions.
We believe that surfaces matter – and that small details can make a big difference.

With curiosity, precision, and a collaborative mindset, we develop technologies that improve reliability, durability, and efficiency.
By combining openness, creativity, and hands-on work, we aim to push the limits of surface technology and create real impact across industries.

Our Mission

We enable our customers to design better products by unlocking the potential of nanotechnology. Our technology creates new functions directly in the material itself, without traditional coatings, harsh chemicals, or additives.

From medical implants to industrial components, we deliver tailored solutions that improve durability, efficiency, and performance. By combining scientific insight with practical implementation, we make surface innovation scalable, reliable, and impactful.

Our Vision

We aim to set a new standard in surface technology, starting with optimized medical implants. By using advanced nanotechnology, we create surfaces that slow down bacterial attachment and growth and
thus, reduce associated risks and improve durability.

Our vision extends beyond healthcare to industries where biofilms, contamination, or surface wear are critical challenges. We strive to reduce implant-associated infections and make nanotechnology a key driver for safer, cleaner, and longer-lasting products across sectors.

Milestones & Achievements

2025

European patent granted
The core nanoshape technology received official patent protection in Europe.

Two additional patents filed
Ongoing innovation resulted in further intellectual property protection.

Start of development
Idea conceived and first trials conducted at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT).

2015

2022

Company founded
nanoshape GmbH established as a spin-off of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT).

2019

First patent filed
Foundational patent on the nanostructuring technology submitted under the umbrella of KIT.

2021

EXIST research grant
Public funding received to scale up the technology and prepare for commercialization.

2024

First industrial feasibility studies
Initial pilot projects launched with partners from the medical and industrial sectors.

Two new patents filed under nanoshape
Further developments led to new IP filings owned by nanoshape.

ISO 13485 certification
Our quality management system was certified for medical device development and manufacturing.

In-house lab and cleanroom established
Commissioning of our own laboratory and cleanroom infrastructure for process and pilot system development.

Awards and Recognitions

Inspired by our mission?

We're always looking for partners and collaborators who share our vision for smarter, more sustainable surfaces. Whether you're curious about our technology, interested in working with us, or want to invest – we’d love to hear from you.