Solid state physics is the branch of physics that is primarily devoted to the study of matter in its solid phase, especially at the atomic level. This prestigious serial presents timely and state-of-the-art reviews pertainingto all aspects of solid state physics.This latest volume in the series is devoted to the science underpinning two cutting edge areas: protein crystallization and semiconductor nanostructures. The extended and very complete review by E. Runge was awarded this year's Karl-Scheel Prize for "the outstanding publication by a young physicist from Berlin".