Ion SMARANDA

Dr. Eng. Ion SMARANDA is a Scientific Researcher III at the National Institute of Materials Physics Măgurele, working in the Optical Processes in Nanostructured Materials Laboratory. He has been with the institute since 2010, progressing from Research Assistant (2010-2018) to Scientific Researcher (2018-2023) and currently Scientific Researcher III (2023-present).

His educational background includes:

• PhD in Physics (2013-2018) from the Faculty of Physics, University of Bucharest, Department of Optics, Spectroscopy, Plasma, Lasers
• Master Degree in Optics, Spectroscopy, Plasma and Laser (2009-2011) from University of Bucharest, Faculty of Physics, Department of Physics
• Engineer's Degree in Technological Physics (2004-2009) from University of Bucharest, Faculty of Physics

Dr. SMARANDA's research focuses on the optical, structural, and electrical properties of nanomaterials and composites. His work spans multiple disciplines including materials science, nanotechnology, and pharmaceutical photodegradation studies. He employs a wide range of spectroscopic techniques including photoluminescence, UV-VIS-NIR absorption spectroscopy, Raman scattering, FT-IR spectroscopy, dielectric spectroscopy, and cyclic voltammetry. A significant portion of his research involves 2D materials like WS₂ and MoS₂, conductive polymers such as poly(ortho-toluidine), and their composite applications in supercapacitors and other electronic devices.

His recent publications demonstrate a strong trend toward 2D material synthesis and characterization, particularly monolayer WS₂ production at low temperatures for electronic applications. He also maintains an active research line in pharmaceutical photodegradation, studying how drugs like azathioprine, losartan, and pantoprazole degrade under light exposure. His work bridges fundamental materials science with practical applications in energy storage and pharmaceutical stability.

Dr. SMARANDA has developed expertise in multiple advanced characterization techniques and has contributed to novel synthesis methods for nanomaterials and composites. His collaborative approach is evident in his numerous co-authored publications across various high-impact journals.

He works within the Optical Processes in Nanostructured Materials Laboratory at the National Institute of Materials Physics, where he conducts research on advanced materials characterization and development.