His research focuses on
ultrafast laser spectroscopy (femtosecond pulses) and thus investigates
dynamics at surfaces. His group investigates electronic and optical properties of a few atoms of thin two-dimensional systems (such as
graphene or ultrathin crystals of transition-metal di-
chalcogen compounds). His significant contributions to the condensed matter and materials physics includes discovery of room temperature excitons in 1D and 2D materials. Heinz is one of the most cited scientists. Since 2019, the media group Clarivate counts him among the favorites for a
Nobel Prize (
Clarivate Citation Laureates). == Awards and honors ==