Elisabet Romero

Dr. Elisabet Romero is a Group Leader at the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), where she leads research on bio-inspired systems for solar energy conversion. She holds a PhD in Biophysics from VU Amsterdam and began her independent career at ICIQ in 2018 through the Severo Ochoa Excellence program. She is the recipient of the prestigious European Research Council (ERC) Starting Grant and a Marie Curie Fellow, highlighting her contributions to renewable energy science.

Her research focuses on understanding and mimicking natural photosynthesis through the design of chromophore-protein assemblies capable of converting sunlight into electrochemical energy and solar fuels like hydrogen. She employs advanced ultrafast spectroscopic techniques—such as two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy (2DES) and transient absorption—to study energy and electron transfer dynamics. Her work has led to the formulation of Quantum Design Principles of Photosynthesis, summarized in a high-impact Nature review.

Dr. Romero’s recent publications demonstrate expertise in computational modeling of artificial light-harvesting proteins and the mapping of energy transfer in plant photosystems. Her research lies at the intersection of physical chemistry, biophysics, and sustainable energy, aiming to create efficient, biodegradable, and scalable solar energy technologies.

Scientific Awards:

• European Research Council Starting Grant
• Marie Curie Fellowship

She actively mentors a research team comprising postdoctoral researchers, PhD students, and master’s students, contributing to training the next generation of scientists. Her lab benefits from ICIQ’s state-of-the-art facilities in photophysics, spectroscopy, and materials characterization. The group fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment, integrating scientific advancement with team-building and cultural exchange.