Paolo Scardi

Paolo Scardi is a Full Professor in Materials Science and Technology at the Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento. His career spans over three decades, with academic appointments starting in 1986. He has held leadership roles such as Coordinator of the Doctoral School in Materials Science and Engineering (2004-2012) and chaired international scientific committees including the IUCr Commission on Powder Diffraction.

• University of Naples - Physics (Solid State Physics) - 1985 (Magna Cum Laude)

Research focuses on materials science with emphasis on surface engineering (coatings, thin films), crystallography (X-ray and neutron diffraction), and nanocrystalline materials. Key projects involve residual stress analysis in mechanical components, CZTS-based photovoltaics, and sustainable thermoelectric generators. Recent publications highlight machine learning optimization of thin-film devices, PET waste valorization, and CZTS battery electrodes.

Scientific leadership includes:

• Chairman roles at IUCr CPD (1999-2002), EPDIC (2010-present)
• Editorial responsibilities for CPD Newsletter
• ICDD Vice-Chair (2004-2006) and Director-at-Large (2006-2010)
• Organized international conferences: SIZE-STRAIN III, Accuracy in Powder Diffraction III

His 15 most recent publications (2023-2025) span from anion exchange membrane modeling to nanoparticle-enhanced phase change materials, with recurring themes in thermoelectricity, X-ray diffraction analysis, and sustainable material design.

As active doctoral coordinator and conference chair, Scardi has advised over 50 theses while leading international collaborations with institutions like Max Planck Institute and Argonne National Lab. Current research includes EU-funded projects on nanocrystalline coatings and residual stress gradients, alongside developing new beamlines at ELETTRA synchrotron facility.