Clovia Holdsworth

Clovia Holdsworth is an Associate Professor and Deputy Head of School (Research Training) at the School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle. She holds a PhD from Griffith University and a MSc in Chemistry from De La Salle University, Philippines. Her academic career includes roles such as Head of Chemistry Discipline and Senior Lecturer. She specializes in polymer chemistry, molecular imprinting, and plasma polymerization of greenhouse gases.

Research Expertise: Her work focuses on radical polymer synthesis, molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), and their applications in sensing and extraction. Notable contributions include the first successful use of ionic liquids and microwave irradiation in MIP synthesis. Collaborations with the Australian Centre for Separation Science and plasma polymerization studies highlight her interdisciplinary approach.

Teaching & Awards: A dedicated educator, she coordinates undergraduate courses in Organic, Analytical, and Polymer Chemistry. Her teaching excellence is recognized through multiple awards, including the Vice-Chancellor’s Teaching Excellence Award (2010) and Faculty Teaching Awards (2018, 2014, 2011, 2009/2008). She is also a recipient of the Balik Scientist Fellowship (2010).

Grants & Funding: Over 30 grants totaling $2.3M, including projects on molecularly imprinted polymers, conductive polymers, and environmental remediation via plasma technology. Recent grants include a New Colombo Plan mobility project (2022) and collaborations with Indonesian institutions.

Labs & Teams: Leads research in polymer synthesis and molecular imprinting, with active collaborations in drug delivery, environmental sensors, and plasma chemistry. Her labs integrate advanced techniques like quantitative NMR and capillary electrophoresis for material characterization.