Despo Fatta-Kassinou

Prof. Despo Fatta-Kassinou is a Professor at the University of Cyprus’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering. She founded and directed the Nireas International Water Research Center (2011–2022), leading a team of 30+ researchers. Her education includes a Diploma in Chemical Engineering (NTUA, 1993), an MSc in Environmental Management (1995), and a PhD (NTUA, 1999).

Research Interests: Her work focuses on environmental contaminants, including: (a) advanced chromatographic analysis of micropollutants, (b) biological impact assessment (toxicity/mutagenicity), (c) development of advanced water treatment technologies targeting antibiotic-resistant genes, and (d) soil-plant pollutant transport. Her recent studies prioritize antibiotic resistance mitigation and sustainable wastewater reuse.

Publication Trends: Her 194 journal articles (sorted by recency) emphasize wastewater treatment efficacy, environmental risk assessment, and emerging contaminants (e.g., microplastics, pharmaceuticals). Key themes include advanced oxidation processes, pathogen inactivation, and global water quality surveillance.

Awards & Recognition:

• National Research Award (Cyprus, 2012)
• SETAC Outstanding Science Career Award (2022)
• Elected to European Academy of Sciences (2024)
• Clarivate Highly Cited Researcher (2018–Present)

Leadership & Grants: She coordinates EU projects (e.g., H2020-MSCA-ITN/675530, €3.7M; COST-ES1403, €600K), totaling €14.5M+ in research funding. She chairs the Scientific Advisory Committee for ACEWATER (Nigeria) and edits key journals (Water Research, Journal of Environmental Chemical Engineering). Advised 55+ MSc/PhD students.

Labs & Outreach: Established Cyprus’ first water research lab (2005) and center (Nireas-IWRC). Authored award-winning children’s book The Secret Book of the Blue Circle (2018) to promote environmental education.