Simona ICONARU

Dr. Simona ICONARU is a Scientific Researcher III at the National Institute of Materials Physics (NIMP), working within the Laboratory of Functional Nanostructures in Romania. Her research focuses on the development and characterization of advanced biomaterials, particularly hydroxyapatite-based composites with various dopants for biomedical applications.

Dr. ICONARU's research interests center on biomaterials science, with particular expertise in hydroxyapatite modification and composite development. She investigates how different dopants (magnesium, zinc, silver, copper, chrome, fluorine, and samarium) affect the physical, chemical, and biological properties of hydroxyapatite-based materials. Her work spans multiple applications including bone regeneration, dental materials, antimicrobial coatings, and drug delivery systems. She employs a wide range of characterization techniques including XRD, SEM, AFM, FTIR, and XPS to analyze material properties at the nanoscale.

Analysis of her recent publications reveals a strong focus on developing multifunctional biomaterials that combine structural integrity with biological activity. Her research shows a consistent pattern of exploring how different doping elements and matrix materials (chitosan, dextran, PVA) can enhance the antimicrobial, osteogenic, and biocompatibility properties of hydroxyapatite. The majority of her work involves in vitro testing with various cell lines (MG63, HGF-1, HeLa) and antimicrobial testing against common pathogens.

Dr. ICONARU collaborates extensively with researchers across multiple institutions, frequently working with teams that include experts in materials characterization, microbiology, and cell biology. Her research demonstrates strong interdisciplinary connections between materials science, nanotechnology, and biomedical engineering.