Dr. Rajesh Bera is a Research Fellow at ICFO's Functional Optoelectronic Nanomaterials group specializing in quantum-confined nanostructures. His research examines ultrafast carrier dynamics, excitonic properties, and optoelectronic applications of nanomaterials including quantum dots, nanoplatelets, and hybrid nanostructures. Current investigations focus on intraband transitions in doped nanocrystals, orientation-dependent excitonic behavior in 2D materials, and charge transfer mechanisms in heterostructure devices. Work bridges fundamental photophysics with applications in photodetection, sensing, and energy conversion. Recent publications demonstrate expertise in time-resolved spectroscopy of quantum materials, nanomaterial synthesis via colloidal chemistry, and rational design of optoelectronic devices. Continually develops novel characterization methods to probe ultrafast processes at nanoscale interfaces.
Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)Spain
Prof. Gustau Catalán is an ICREA Research Professor and Group Leader of the Oxide Nanophysics Group at the Catalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2). He earned his PhD in Physics from Queen’s University of Belfast (2001) and held postdoctoral positions at IMEDEA (2002–2004), University of Groningen (2004–2005), and University of Cambridge (2005–2009). Since 2009, he has led pioneering research in flexoelectricity, domain wall physics, and strain-engineered oxide materials, supported by an ERC Grant. Education: PhD in Physics, Queen’s University of Belfast (2001) BSc in Physics, Universitat de Barcelona (1997) Research Interests: Gustau Catalán's work focuses on the interplay between ferroelectricity, flexoelectricity, and metal-insulator transitions in oxide materials. His research explores how these properties manifest at reduced dimensions, with applications in nanoelectronics, photovoltaics, and smart mechanical systems. Key areas include polarization dynamics, domain wall engineering, and strain-gradient effects. Recent Publications (2024–2025): The 15 most recent articles highlight advancements in flexoelectricity (e.g., water ice and halide perovskites), domain wall dynamics (e.g., tungsten trioxide), and strain-gradient-induced photovoltaic effects. These studies span materials like PbZrO3, BaTiO3, and BiFeO3, with implications for energy harvesting, memory devices, and nanoscale actuators. Scientific Awards: ERC Grant for flexoelectricity laboratory establishment Advising and Collaborations: While specific students are not listed, Catalán collaborates extensively with researchers across Europe. His group develops novel oxide-based systems and investigates their electromechanical and optoelectronic properties. Laboratory & Team: At ICN2, he established one of the world's first flexoelectricity laboratories, leading a team that explores oxide nanophysics through advanced characterization techniques like AFM, X-ray diffraction, and electrocaloric imaging.
Alan Briones Delgado is a researcher at the La Salle School of Engineering , Universitat Ramon Llull , with a focus on Internet of Things , Cybersecurity , and Transport Protocols . His work spans projects funded by the European Commission and national grants, including EXCEL4HOUSING4.0 , WeB-Nimbus , and NG-SOC , addressing challenges in cloud computing education, ecological monitoring, and security operations. His research integrates Artificial Intelligence and Wireless Sensor Networks for sustainable solutions. Key research areas include Quality of Service in heterogeneous networks, Environmental Conservation via IoT, and Teaching and Learning strategies for Big Data. Projects like EcoSentinel and BTL-COP highlight his commitment to Environmental Monitoring and Community Policing applications. His collaborations extend to institutions in the UK , Albania , and Western Balkans . Contact: alan.briones@salle.url.edu
Mahmoud Khalifa Abdelhamid Khalifa is a Researcher at the Institute for Research in Technology (IIT) of Comillas Pontifical University, affiliated with the Higher Technical School of Engineering (ICAI). He holds a B.Sc. (2019, first class honors) and M.Sc. (2023) in Electrical Engineering from Minia University, Egypt. His current role involves predoctoral research in electrical systems, focusing on battery energy storage systems and their impact on low-inertia power systems stability. Education: B.Sc. Electrical Engineering, Minia University (2019), ranked first in class M.Sc. Electrical Engineering, Minia University (2023) Research Interests: Mahmoud’s work centers on modeling, control, and stability analysis of energy storage systems, particularly in the context of renewable energy integration. His expertise includes doubly-fed induction generators (DFIG), grid stability, and advanced control algorithms for wind and solar systems. Publications & Contributions: He has authored/co-authored peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers, and a book on DFIG control systems. His work emphasizes optimizing dynamic performance in renewable energy systems and enhancing grid reliability through advanced control techniques. Affiliations & Skills: Mahmoud is proficient in MATLAB/Simulink, PLC programming (Siemens SIMATIC STEP 7), and tools like Arduino C, Microsoft Office, and SPSS. His research is supported by institutional affiliations with IIT and Minia University. Labs/Teams: Engaged in IIT’s electrical systems research group, contributing to projects on smart grids and energy storage solutions.
Dr. Jose Manuel Sánchez Peña is a Full Professor at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M), affiliated with the Grupo Universitario de Tecnologías de Identificación (GUTI). His research focuses on precision agriculture technologies, optoelectronics, and neuroscientific interfaces. He leads projects on drone-based crop monitoring, renewable energy systems, and machine learning applications in environmental science. Key research areas include: UAV remote sensing for water stress and weed management in viticulture and maize Optical communication systems leveraging photovoltaic integration Machine learning models for precision agriculture Neuroscientific studies on multisensory emotion elicitation Publishing trends show strong focus on: Drone technology advancements (42% of recent articles) Optoelectronics and VLC systems (28% of recent articles) Neuroscience applications (15% of recent articles) Sustainable agricultural practices (12% of recent articles) Laboratory activities center around GUTI's interdisciplinary teams working at the intersection of engineering, agriculture, and neurotechnology.
Jose Miguel Espi Huerta is an Associate Professor in the Department of Electronic Engineering at the School of Engineering, University of Valencia. He is an active researcher in power electronics and control systems, contributing significantly to grid-connected converters, renewable energy integration, and digital control techniques. His research interests include: Power Electronics and Inverter Control Predictive and Robust Control Strategies Renewable Energy Systems (Photovoltaic and Wind) Induction Heating Technologies Remote and Web-Based Educational Labs The analysis of his recent publications reveals a strong focus on improving the efficiency and reliability of grid-connected power converters using advanced control methods such as predictive current control and MPPT strategies. His work spans both industrial applications and academic education, particularly in developing remote laboratory platforms for control systems. Scientific awards and honors: No awards listed in the provided text. He has supervised academic theses and is affiliated with the LEII (Laboratory of Industrial Electronics and Instrumentation) research group. While no formal grants are listed, his extensive publication record indicates sustained research activity. He has contributed to the development of educational tools such as air levitation systems accessible via PLC and web interfaces, promoting innovative teaching methods in engineering education. The LEII research group focuses on industrial electronics, instrumentation, and power systems, providing a collaborative environment for applied research in energy conversion and control technologies.
PASCUAL ALVAREZ GOMEZ is a Professor at the University of Cádiz, affiliated with the Department of Industrial Engineering and Civil Engineering. His research focuses on Ground Engineering and Thermal Engineering, with a particular emphasis on geothermal heat pumps and thermal performance modeling. He is associated with the TEP221 Thermal Engineering research group and contributes to the PAIDI area of Production Technologies. Education: PhD in Industrial Engineering from the University of Cádiz (2014), with a thesis on "Vertical Ground Heat Exchanger Simulation Model for Geothermal Heat Pumps" Research: Specializes in hybrid thermal modeling, CFD analysis for evaporation rates, and machine learning applications in corrosion prediction His publications highlight advancements in geothermal systems, low-concentration photovoltaics, and biogas environment corrosion analysis. He employs both analytical and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approaches for energy efficiency improvements.
Iñigo Bretos is a CSIC Researcher at the Materials Science Institute of Madrid (ICMM-CSIC). He holds a BSc from the Universidad de Navarra (2001) and a PhD from the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (2006). After postdoctoral work at RWTH Aachen University, he joined ICMM in 2009, becoming a CSIC Researcher in 2022. His research focuses on low-temperature synthesis and integration of multifunctional materials like ferroelectrics, piezoelectrics, and superconductors, with applications in electronics, energy, and environmental remediation. He emphasizes sustainable methods, including aqueous routes and lead-free materials. Education: BSc Chemistry (2001), PhD (2006) Roles: Coordinator of 'Toca la Ciencia', Teacher in postgraduate courses, Organizer of 'Young Scientist Meetings' His research interests span functional material synthesis, flexible electronics, and energy-efficient processing. Recent publications (2020–2025) highlight advancements in BiFeO3 thin films, photochemical methods, and low-temperature integration strategies for electronic systems. He has led projects (EXPLORA, ComFuturo) and collaborated with industry (BASF SE). His work appears in Advanced Materials , Journal of the American Chemical Society , and others. Outreach efforts include media appearances and science communication initiatives like 'La Radiante Vida de Marie Curie'. Labs: Thin Film Preparation, Low-Temperature Processing, Ceramic Synthesis, Functional Characterization, Magnetoelectric Analysis, and Piezoresponse Force Microscopy.
Eduard Massaguer Colomer is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Construction Engineering at the University of Girona, where he is part of the School of Engineering. He is a Serra Húnter Fellow, reflecting his strong research and academic trajectory. He is affiliated with the Research Group in Fluids, Energy and Environmental Engineering (GREFEMA) and leads research in thermoelectric energy harvesting and waste heat recovery. His research focuses on improving the efficiency of thermoelectric generators for heat recovery in automotive, industrial, and renewable energy systems. Key areas include: Thermoelectric generator design and optimization Waste heat recovery from exhaust gases and industrial processes Integration with solar, biomass, and marine systems Dynamic modeling and experimental validation Technology transfer and spin-off development His recent publications reveal a consistent focus on energy conversion efficiency, transient thermal behavior, and practical applications of thermoelectric systems across transportation, industrial, and domestic sectors. He has contributed significantly to hybrid energy systems and low-cost solutions for rural electrification. His scientific awards include: Extraordinary Doctoral Award 2016 (UdG) Volkswagen Think Blue Award 2015 Seal of Excellence 2019 (European Commission) Multiple awards from Repsol Foundation, Iberdrola Foundation, and La Caixa He has supervised two doctoral theses and led multiple competitive research projects, securing over €320k as Principal Investigator and €500k in total funding. His work has led to four patents and five technology transfer contracts. He co-founded the spin-off Nabla Thermoelectrics SL (2016–2021), demonstrating strong industry collaboration and innovation impact. He is actively involved in research leadership, having served as guest editor for a special issue on Solar Thermoelectric Generators in MDPI Energies. His lab work centers on the Heat and Cold Laboratory at the University of Girona, where experimental validation and prototype development are conducted.
Daniel Fernández-Muñoz is an Associate Professor at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid (UPM) , affiliated with the Department of Physical Electronics, Electrical Engineering and Applied Physics. He earned his PhD in 2021 with a thesis on "Generation scheduling in isolated power systems with high variable renewable generation and pump-storage," receiving both the Extraordinary Doctoral Award and Carlos González Cruz Award. He has held academic roles since 2006, including Assistant Professor positions from 2016-2021 and a current permanent Associate Professor appointment. Education : PhD in Electrical Engineering (UPM), DEA in Electrical Engineering (2010), Civil Engineering degree (2006) Research Focus : Renewable energy integration, power system optimization, battery degradation modeling, and frequency control in isolated grids Collaborations : Instituto de Sistemas Eléctricos de Potencia (Austria), EERA Joint Programme on Energy Storage, H2020 project eNeuron His work emphasizes hybrid wind-battery systems , pumped-storage hydropower , and virtual power plants , with notable publications in JCR Q1 journals. He has contributed to the Energy2Win project on sustainability education and served as a peer reviewer for multiple scientific journals. Scientific Awards Premio Extraordinario de Doctorado (UPM) Premio Carlos González Cruz Teaching activities include Physics for Biomedical Engineering and Energy Systems for Telecommunications. He has participated in international conferences as an invited speaker and contributed to projects funded by the Spanish government and private entities.
Dr. Paul Pistor is an Associate Professor at the Universidad Pablo de Olavide , affiliated with the Department of Physical, Chemical and Natural Systems and the Center for Nanoscience and Sustainable Technologies (CNATS) . His research focuses on the physics and materials science of solar cells, particularly perovskite and kesterite thin films. Research areas include Photovoltaic materials engineering Thin film stability and degradation Crystallography of photovoltaic compounds Advanced characterization techniques Email: ppis@upo.es
Prof. J.R. Galán-Mascarós leads the research group at ICIQ, focusing on sustainable materials and electrocatalysis for energy and chemical transformations. His work addresses decarbonization challenges across microscopic reactivity and engineering solutions for device implementation. Research interests include developing advanced materials for energy storage (e.g., artificial leaf systems), molecular memory devices, and chiral-functionalized catalysts. His team’s multidisciplinary approach combines materials science, electrochemistry, and chemical engineering. Key contributions include high-efficiency artificial leaf devices and molecular memory systems. Current projects involve CO₂ conversion technologies and magnetic-field-enhanced catalysis. Funding includes major grants like INHYTECH (metal nitrides applications) and BREATH-CO₂ (carbon mitigation strategies). The group actively collaborates with institutions like the University of Rovira i Virgili and industry partners. Prof. Galán-Mascarós oversees a diverse team of PhD students and visiting researchers, emphasizing innovation and interdisciplinary training.
Luis Javier Miguel González is a Professor in the Department of Systems Engineering and Automation at the University of Valladolid since 1997. He has transitioned from early work on automatic fault diagnosis and predictive maintenance to leading research on energy systems dynamics since 2004. He directs the Energy, Economics, and Systems Dynamics research group and has supervised five doctoral theses. His roles include managing the Department of International Development Cooperation, promoting initiatives like the Interuniversity Master's in International Development Cooperation and the University of Valladolid's Development Cooperation Observatory. Research focuses on energy transition pathways, integrating biophysical and socioeconomic constraints through models like MEDEAS. His work addresses systemic challenges such as the land-energy-food nexus, renewable energy variability, fossil fuel depletion, and decarbonization strategies. He has led projects under EU H2020 and national programs, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to sustainability. Publications span energy policy analysis, IAM development, and participatory education tools for sustainability. Notable contributions include the WILIAM System Dynamics model and pymedeas open-source software. His research bridges technical modeling with policy implications, addressing global challenges like SDG acceleration and climate mitigation.
Israel Andrés Callejas Vidoy is a Research Fellow at IMDEA Nanoscience Institute, where he specializes in advanced spectroscopic techniques within the Pump-Probe and Photoinduced Absorption Spectroscopies research group. He joined the institute in September 2024 and focuses on experimental investigations of light-matter interactions at the nanoscale. His core research domains include: Ultrafast Spectroscopy Nanomaterials Characterization Photoinduced Dynamics Optical Spectroscopy Nanophotonics Time-resolved Spectroscopy Through pump-probe methodologies, Callejas Vidoy examines carrier dynamics and energy transfer mechanisms in novel nanomaterials, with direct relevance to photovoltaic systems and next-generation optoelectronic devices. His experimental work bridges fundamental quantum phenomena with practical applications in renewable energy technologies.
Manuel Jesus Espinosa Gavira is a researcher at the Department of Automation, Electronics, Architecture and Computer Networks Engineering at the University of Cádiz, Spain. He is affiliated with the TIC168 Computational Instrumentation and Industrial Electronics research group under the Information and Communication Technologies PAIDI area. Research Focus: His work centers on power quality analysis, wireless sensor networks, and smart grid technologies. Key contributions include developing instrumentation systems for voltage supply characterization, cloud-induced photovoltaic transient analysis, and synchronized sensor networks for industrial applications. His PhD thesis (2023) explored sensor networks for short-term solar prediction in microgrids and smart cities. Publications Trends: Recent work focuses on higher-order statistics (HOS) for power quality monitoring, photovoltaic plant optimization using weather forecasts, and frequency domain analysis for grid stability. These publications reflect expertise in computational instrumentation, renewable energy integration, and real-time monitoring systems.
