Prof. Plank holds a Ph.D. in chemistry. From 1980 to 2000, he served as Research Group Leader, Director of Research for "Construction and Oilfield Chemicals," and later General Manager of SKW Polymers GmbH, Trostberg (now part of BASF). Since 2001, he has been a Full Professor of Construction Chemistry at Technische Universität München. His research focuses on low-carbon binders, polymeric admixtures, CO2 footprint reduction in concrete, nanoparticles, hybrid materials, 3D printing, and energy-harvesting floors. Prof. Plank has authored over 500 scientific papers and holds 40 patents. He is a member of organizations such as GDCh, RILEM, SPE, and API, and has received awards including the A. Aignesberger Award from CANMET/ACI, Honorary Member of the ICT and recognition from the SPE. In 2021, he became a TUM Professor of Excellence and a member of TUMs Senior Excellence Faculty. In 2023, he was elected to the German Academy of Technical Sciences.