Assoc. Prof. Veneta Sirakova is a faculty member at New Bulgarian University in the Department of Foreign Languages and Cultures . With a career spanning decades, she has contributed extensively to translation studies and Hispanic literature research. PhD in Translation Theory and Practice (2013) Associate Professor in Philology (Spanish Language) since 2020 Teaching experience at NBU since 1994 Her research focuses on Spanish literature and translation theory , particularly examining: Motherhood themes in Latin American poetry Cultural references in Pablo Neruda's works Translation of neologisms and taboo language Pedagogical applications of poetic texts Audiovisual translation techniques Biographical approaches to literary analysis Recent publications demonstrate expertise in Hispanic literature and translation pedagogy , with a focus on Gabriela Mistral and Rosario Castellanos . While no formal awards are listed, her work appears in Web of Science indexed journals.
Assoc. Prof. Emanuela Tchitchova is a faculty member at New Bulgarian University , affiliated with the Research Center for Computational and Applied Linguistics . She holds a PhD in Comparative Literature from the University of Paris-3 New Sorbonne and teaches French as a foreign language, translation, and specialized courses in economics, law, and humanities. Education : PhD in Comparative Literature (University of Paris-3 New Sorbonne, 2016), dissertation on autobiographical narratives in French New Novel and contemporary Bulgarian literature. Research Interests span contemporary literature , comparative literature , foreign language pedagogy , computational linguistics , and applied linguistics . She focuses on interdisciplinary applications of linguistics in education and specialized translation. Professional Roles include teaching French language courses (LEAB006, LEAB015, LEAB034), economic geography (LEAB044), intercultural communication (LEAB071), and advanced translation projects (LEAB286–LEAB299). She also contributes to curriculum development through educational kits like Rally (Prosveta Publishing, 2016–2019).
Luchezar Afrikanov serves as Assistant Professor ( главен асистент ) in the Department of Foreign Languages and Cultures at New Bulgarian University, teaching Bulgarian studies courses including Competency Approach and Innovations in Education (BULB621). His office is located in room 612, II Corps (contact: 0885155524/Viber, lafrikanov@nbu.bg ), with Tuesday office hours 10:30-14:30. His research centers on educational leadership, competency-based frameworks, and innovation ecosystems, with emphasis on coaching methodologies, design thinking, and entrepreneurial education. He integrates European project management expertise into sustainable education models, particularly addressing green skills development and burnout prevention for educators within Balkan contexts. His work bridges theoretical rigor with practical applications for teacher training and organizational transformation. Recent publications (2018-2025) reveal three dominant trajectories: (1) Sustainable education through green schools and VR-enhanced environmental curricula; (2) Teacher resilience via burnout prevention and coaching skill development; (3) Entrepreneurial ecosystems including inclusive mentoring models and student readiness assessments. These studies predominantly employ case-based methodologies within Bulgarian, Romanian, and Serbian educational settings, often supported by Erasmus+ initiatives. Dr. Afrikanov actively contributes to international projects including Voice UP (Erasmus+, 2020) and APEL (Erasmus+, 2021), developing training toolkits for women's job reintegration and youth leadership. His grant work focuses on European project coordination, with outputs including methodological guidelines for dual education systems and social innovation frameworks. He collaborates with Bulgarian NGOs advancing educational reform and social innovation, particularly through initiatives promoting teacher resilience and school culture transformation. His current projects emphasize cross-border knowledge exchange in Southeastern Europe, notably through the EUNITA network and Green Schools partnerships.
Assoc. Prof. Albena Nedkova Dobreva is affiliated with the Medical University "Prof. Dr. Paraskev Stoyanov" – Varna, where she works in the Department of Foreign Language Teaching, Communication and Sports. She specializes in Bulgarian language education for international contexts and medical communication. Education: Bulgarian Philology at Veliko Tarnovo University (2000), English Philology at Shumen University (2016), PhD in Bulgarian Language and Linguistics (2014) Her research focuses on communicative competence , language teaching methodologies, and the application of the European Certification Language System (ECL) . Publications span medical communication, applied linguistics, and comparative linguistics. She serves as a coordinator and examiner for Bulgarian language certification in international frameworks.
Lilia Doncheva is an Associate Professor at the National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski" in Bulgaria, affiliated with the Foreign Languages Section. She has dedicated her academic career to the study of Sports Psychology, English and American Literature, and pedagogical methodologies for English language instruction, with a focus on distance learning modalities. High School in Pleven (Russian and English language) College of North West London (Business and Finance) University of National and World Economy, Sofia (Economics and Management of Commerce) Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" (Postgraduate qualification in English language teaching) Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski" (Master's in "Literature, Communication, Media") National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski" (Doctoral degree in 2013) Her research spans interdisciplinary areas combining psychological frameworks for athletic performance, literary analysis of Anglo-American texts, and innovative approaches to language pedagogy. She has contributed to the development of distance learning curricula for English language instruction. Contact: liliyadoncheva@nsa.bg | Phone: +359 2 4014 230 | Mobile: +359 893398172
Stefan Popov is a Professor of Philosophy and Sociology at New Bulgarian University (NBU), holding a Ph.D. from the New School for Social Research and a Doctor of Science from Sofia University. He has held leadership roles, including Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Open Society Institute in Sofia (2000–2006) and Executive Chairman of RiskMonitor, a think tank since 2007. Education: Ph.D. in Philosophy and Social Science, New School for Social Research (1996); Doctor of Science, Sofia University (year unspecified). His research spans political philosophy, phenomenology, and sociology, with a focus on topics like: Cartesian philosophy and mathematization of the world (2017 book) Wittgenstein’s analytic of mysticism (2008 book) International security regimes and NATO’s global mission (2000 book) Organized crime and policy analysis Recent publications highlight interdisciplinary analysis of political transitions, security frameworks, and philosophical foundations. Popov also authored a 2019 sports book on modern ski technique. As a faculty member, he teaches courses such as LEAB300 Project Management and LEAB302 Projects: Concept, Proposal, Management , reflecting his engagement with practical and theoretical education.
Liubka Slavova is a Lecturer in the Department of Foreign Language Education at New Bulgarian University (NBU), where she has worked since 2007. She specializes in Spanish language instruction and cultural studies, teaching courses such as Spanish for Business, Case Studies in Spanish, Intercultural Communication, Cultural History of Europe, and Project-based Translation. Education: Master's degree in Spanish Philology (Sofia University 'St. Kliment Ohridski', 1979-1984) with specialization in Latin American Literature and a second specialty in Russian Philology. Her research focuses on Spanish literature, translation studies, and cultural history. She has contributed to academic projects involving student translation initiatives, including anthologies of Spanish Christmas stories and maritime-themed narratives. Her publications analyze Spanish literary traditions, temporal structures in literature, and semiotic interpretations of classic texts like Don Quixote and Celestina . Liubka has translated multiple academic works from Bulgarian to Spanish, including historical studies on Austro-Hungarian influence in Albania and contemporary novels. She actively engages in curriculum development and pedagogical projects within NBU's Faculty of Foreign Languages and Cultures.
St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko TarnovoBulgaria
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yanka Koeva is affiliated with the University of Veliko Tarnovo (St. Cyril and St. Methodius University) as a faculty member of the Faculty of Modern Languages , specifically in the Department of Methodology of Linguistic and Literary Education . Her academic rank is Associate Professor in the field of German language pedagogy. Her research interests focus on foreign language education , with emphasis on self-assessment , error correction , multilingualism , and pedagogical methodology . She has explored the integration of digital media , intercultural communication , and student motivation in language learning contexts. Key trends in her 15 most recent articles include: Analysis of error correction techniques in pair/small-group settings Development of self-evaluation practices for language learners Challenges in multilingual education and curriculum design Innovations in German language teaching (DaF) Role of technology in modern language instruction Psychological and pedagogical frameworks for language acquisition Contact details: University email: ya.koeva@ts.uni-vt.bg Personal email: j.koeva@outlook.com
St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko TarnovoBulgaria
Boryana Emiliyanova Mihailova is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Veliko Tarnovo , affiliated with the Department of General Linguistics and Old Bulgarian Studies . Her research focuses on Romanian language, onomastics, and metaphorical expressions in Balkan folk geographical terminology. University of Veliko Tarnovo: Senior Lecturer (Department of General Linguistics and Old Bulgarian Studies) Research Interests : Comparative analysis of Bulgarian and Romanian linguistic elements Metaphorical models in folk geographical terms Toponymy and anthroponymy in the Danubian region Historical and cultural linguistic patterns in Balkan languages Language education and cross-border linguistic networks Project Participation : "Thematic Research Perspectives through International Academic Networks" (2025): Collaborative project with universities in Niš, Warsaw, and Craiova "International Academic Networks – Traditions and Innovations" (2024): Research and educational exchange initiatives
St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko TarnovoBulgaria
Assoc. Prof. Teodora Kurteva Rabovyanova is an Associate Professor at the Department of Modern Bulgarian Language, Faculty of Modern Languages, St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo. Her research focuses on Bulgarian linguistics, syntax, and semantics, with particular emphasis on causative verbs, transitivity, and language culture. University: St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Tarnovo Department: Department of Modern Bulgarian Language Her work explores the evolving dynamics of the Bulgarian verb system, including de-reflexive verbs, poly-prefixed verbs, and the stylistic and grammatical implications of these phenomena. She actively participates in projects like Oral Communication in the Digital Age and Bulgarian Language in a Globalizing World , which aim to digitize spoken language archives and analyze Bulgarian's role in international contexts. Recent publications highlight her expertise in causative verbs, transitivity, and their cultural reflections in Bulgarian phraseology. Her contributions include studies on prepositional syntax, colloquial verb usage, and the interplay between literal and figurative meanings in polysemous verbs. Notable Projects: Oral Communication in the Digital Age Bulgarian Language in a Globalizing World Oral Communication – Current Issues and Scientific Solutions
St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko TarnovoBulgaria
Iliyana Dimitrova is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Modern Bulgarian Language within the Faculty of Modern Languages at St. Cyril and St. Methodius University of Veliko Turnovo in Bulgaria. She holds a PhD and has established herself as a prominent researcher in Bulgarian linguistics with a specialization in the relationship between language, culture, and cognition. Her research interests span Bulgarian Linguistics, Sociolinguistics, Language and Culture, Second Language Acquisition, Intercultural Communication, Cognitive Linguistics, and Contrastive Linguistics. Dr. Dimitrova's work extensively examines how cultural concepts are encoded in language, with particular focus on the Bulgarian linguistic picture of the world, sociocultural competence in language learning, oral communication patterns, and language contact phenomena, especially between Bulgarian and English. Her research bridges theoretical linguistic frameworks with practical applications in language teaching, particularly for Bulgarian as a foreign language. Analysis of her publication trends reveals consistent focus on conceptual domains like cleverness/intellect, success/failure, hospitality, and collective vs. individual identity in Bulgarian culture. Her work demonstrates sophisticated integration of cognitive linguistic approaches with empirical research on language use, often employing contrastive analysis (particularly Bulgarian-English comparisons) and discourse analysis. A significant portion of her research addresses the challenges of teaching Bulgarian language and culture to non-native speakers, including frameworks for incorporating sociocultural competence into language curricula. Dr. Dimitrova actively participates in research projects including 'Integration of Students and Doctoral Students into Research Initiatives and Practices of the Faculty of Philology at VTU' (2025), 'Oral Communication in the Digital Age – Problems and Perspectives' (2023), and 'Oral Communication – Current Problems and Scientific Solutions' (2020). These projects reflect her commitment to advancing research in linguistic communication, digitizing linguistic resources, and mentoring the next generation of scholars. Through her ongoing involvement in the 'Problems of Oral Communication' conference series and other academic initiatives, she maintains an active role in the Bulgarian and international linguistics community.
Siyana Harizanova is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Foreign Languages and Cultures at New Bulgarian University. Her primary research interests focus on foreign language teaching methodology, early language acquisition, and strategies for fostering critical thinking and independent learning. She has extensive experience in adapting international educational materials for Bulgarian schools and has led numerous teacher training initiatives. Education: English Philology (Moscow State Pedagogical Institute, 1987), Specializations in the UK (York University, Brighton, etc.) Professional Memberships: Member of BETA-IATEFL and Bulgarian Association of English Teachers Dr. Harizanova has authored or co-authored over 30 publications, including textbooks for primary and secondary education, teacher training manuals, and articles on pedagogical strategies. Her work emphasizes the integration of technology in language education and creative teaching approaches. She has been a key expert in national projects such as curriculum standardization and teacher professional development programs. Her involvement in international conferences includes presentations in Poland, Germany, Greece, and the UK, focusing on young learner education and teacher training. She has also moderated online courses and reviewed educational materials for international publishers. Notable contributions include the Teaching English in the Primary Classroom handbook and adaptations of international curricula (e.g., English In Motion , Hopscotch ) for Bulgarian schools.
Asst. Prof. Hristo Chukurliev, PhD is a faculty member at the Department of Foreign Languages and Cultures at New Bulgarian University (NBU). He has held multiple administrative roles, including Director of the Central University Administration since 2018, Director of the Faculty for Remote, E-learning, and Continuing Education (2010-2018), and Dean of the Master’s Faculty (2002 onwards). Research Interests : Management models in education and social processes Digital transformation and e-learning technologies Historical evolution of civilizations and religions Future professions and higher education reform Publications & Projects : His work focuses on e-learning platforms (like Moodle), post-pandemic education, blockchain in education, and critical thinking. He led the project "Improving the quality of distance learning at NBU" under the Human Resources Development Program funded by the European Social Fund. Conference Participation : He has presented at international conferences on digital education, plagiarism prevention, and educational innovation (e.g., EDEN, ERUA Summit, GUIDE Conference).
Dr. Katya Hristova-Valcheva is an Assistant Professor at the Department of Political Sciences , New Bulgarian University. She is a Jean Monnet Lecturer specializing in European Union policy , civil society , and corruption prevention . Her research explores EU institutional frameworks , multi-level governance , and citizen engagement in Central and Eastern Europe. Her academic contributions span European political integration , lobbying dynamics , and judicial reform , with a focus on Bulgaria’s EU adaptation. Recent publications analyze governance crises , anti-corruption tools , and institutional efficiency . She teaches courses on European institutions and administrative systems in English and foreign languages. Key Research Areas: European Union Governance Political Corruption Prevention Civil Society in Multi-Level Systems Citizens' Initiative Mechanisms
Petko Staynov is an Assistant Professor at the New Bulgarian University (NBU) , affiliated with the Department of Informatics . His career spans academic roles in Bulgaria and France, with expertise in informatics, linguistics, and educational technology. Education : M.Sc. in Applied Information and Communication Technologies in Education and Learning, Louis Pasteur University, Strasbourg, France (2004) B.A. in Philology (Bulgarian Language and Literature), Sofia University "St. Clement of Ohrid" (1982) Dr. Staynov's research focuses on the intersection of computer science , linguistics , and multimedia technologies . His work explores ethnopragmatics , language-cognition relationships , and computer-assisted translation , while developing online courses and national information systems . Publications highlight his contributions to semantic theory , archaeological computing , and pedagogical resource sharing . At NBU, he teaches courses in French for Administration , Professional Correspondence , and Informatics . His professional experience includes directing master's programs (since 1998) and teaching multimedia and internet technologies (since 1997). Earlier roles in France involved new technologies management , advertising analysis , and multilingual engineering projects.
