Maria Samarakou

Maria Samarakou serves as Professor in the Department of Computer Engineering and Information Technology at the School of Engineering, University of West Attica, where she leads the Applied Informatics laboratory and directs the Educational Technology and E-Learning Systems Laboratory.

Her academic journey began with a B.A. in Physics (1977) followed by a Ph.D. from the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (1986), specializing in simulation and optimization of energy systems. Early career highlights include research at Pratt & Whitney (USA), MBB (Germany), and CNRS/LAAS (France).

Professor Samarakou's research pioneers the integration of Artificial Intelligence with educational frameworks, focusing on Interactive Learning Environments, Intelligent Educational Systems, and Educational Software Design. Her work drives innovation in technology-enhanced learning through intelligent tutoring systems and adaptive educational platforms.

She has supervised nine doctoral students in the past decade (six completed, three ongoing) and secured leadership in over 20 National and European research programs since 1985. Her laboratory develops cutting-edge e-learning tools while she contributes as a reviewer for major international journals and conferences.

Professional affiliations include the Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education (AACE), Hellenic Informatics Society, and Hellenic Union of Physicists, reflecting her interdisciplinary impact across computing education and physics communities.