Kostas Philippides

Kostas Philippides serves as Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the Polytechnic School of the University of Western Macedonia, Greece, a position held since 2019 following the institution's transition from the Technological Educational Institute of Western Macedonia (where he was Professor from 2017-2019). Born in Athens in 1965, he maintains active roles in both theoretical physics research and innovative science education methodologies within an engineering faculty context.

His academic credentials include:

• Philosophy Doctorate in Theoretical Physics of Elementary Particles, New York University (1996)
• Master in Science, New York University (1993)
• Postgraduate Fellowship, NCSR Demokritos (1989-1991)
• Bachelor of Physics, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (1990)

Professor Philippides' research demonstrates a significant evolution from high-energy particle physics to educational science. His early career (1990s-2000s) produced foundational work in electroweak theory, gauge boson couplings, and radiative corrections published in Physical Review D and Nuclear Physics. Since 2011, he has pioneered interdisciplinary studies at the physics-education interface, investigating how force concept teaching reinforces language acquisition, implementing CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) methodologies, and analyzing science club impacts on academic performance. His educational philosophy emphasizes making complex scientific principles accessible through fundamental concepts.

Publication trends reveal a strategic pivot from theoretical particle physics to educational research around 2010. While his pre-2010 work focused on Standard Model validations and electroweak corrections for major facilities like CERN, recent publications examine pedagogical frameworks, language integration in science instruction, and assessment metrics. This transition aligns with his dual commitment to advancing physics knowledge and transforming its transmission across educational levels.

His notable recognition includes:

• Marie Curie Fellowship for postdoctoral research at University of Durham (1997-1999)

Professor Philippides has supervised students across multiple educational tiers: mentoring secondary students during his tenure at Thessaloniki's 2nd Experimental Lyceum (2007-2017), guiding undergraduate engineers in mechanical engineering courses, and advising research projects in physics education. Though specific grant details aren't documented, his consultancy work with Atlantis S.A. and Q-PLAN International on laboratory accreditation systems demonstrates applied research translation. His teaching portfolio spans Physics, Mechanics, Electrical Circuits, and Electrical Machines at university level.

He maintains connections with international research networks through past presentations at CERN, UCLA, and University of Cambridge, while currently focusing on pedagogical innovation within the Department of Mechanical Engineering. His work bridges theoretical physics foundations with practical engineering education through curriculum development and assessment frameworks.