Prof. Dr. Thomas Gries is an experienced professional with a demonstrated history of working in the research industry for more than 20 years. He is a strong education professional skilled in research and development, chemistry, materials science, composites and polymers. He has  to his credit, the honoris causa professorship of Lomonossow University, Moscow, the most distinguished scientific award of Russia for his achievement of 3D-tailored composite reinforcements. Regarded as thought-leader in 3D- & 4D-textiles, Dr. Gries had made ITA the leading institution in digitalization and biotransformation of the textile sector.