Assoc. Prof. Tatyana Yordanova is affiliated with the National Academy of Sports in Bulgaria, where she serves in the Faculty of Sports and Department of Technical and Ice Sports . She holds the academic rank of Associate Professor and has been leading the department since 2024. Education: Master's from State Central Institute of Physical Culture (1987); Doctorate in Sports Science (2019) Languages: English, Italian, Russian Her research focuses on technical elements in figure skating , speed-power abilities , balance stability , and judging systems . She has extensively studied jump mechanics and anthropometric factors in skaters. Her publications from 2018-2024 include studies on judging systems, jump techniques, and sports management. Key themes in her work involve training methodology, competition analytics, and biomechanics of skating. Since 2002, she has worked as an international figure skating judge, including at the Sochi 2014 Olympics . She chaired the Bulgarian Skating Federation (2011-2023) and participated in projects like Erasmus+ mobility (2022, 2024). Her pedagogical career includes roles as scientific assistant (1988), senior assistant (2006), and associate professor (2023).
Ivaylo Lazarov is an Associate Professor at the Vasil Levski National Sports Academy within the Faculty of Pedagogy , Department of Athletics . He holds a PhD in anthropology of middle-distance runners and has been active in both academic and athletic roles since 2001. His work spans pedagogy, coaching, and research in athletics. Education: Bachelor's and Master's degrees from Vasil Levski National Sports Academy in 'Sport for High Achievements' Pedagogical Activity: Teaches courses on running techniques, training control, athletics in education, and kinesitherapy Research Focus: Functional diagnostics, sports training control, youth athletics, and conditioning methods Publications: Authored 36 scientific works including two monographs (2019) on sports training management and adolescent athlete challenges Coaching Achievements: Produced national champions and Balkan Championship prizewinners in sprint, hurdles, and jumping disciplines
Daniel Polihronov is Assistant Professor at Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski", Faculty of Education, Department of Theory of Education. He lectures across bachelor’s and master’s programmes in preventive pedagogy, resocialisation, and social work with children and deviant youth. Education: PhD (field inferred: Pedagogy/Social Education) Research Interests: Dr Polihronov focuses on prevention and correction of deviant behaviour , intercultural education , and the use of literature as a tool for social-pedagogical intervention . His work spans psychoactive-substance prevention programmes, literacy development in multicultural settings, and penitentiary pedagogy. Across 2020-2024 he has led or participated in multiple projects funded by the Bulgarian state budget, the EU Operational Programme “Science and Education for Smart Growth”, and the European Economic Area Financial Mechanism. These projects address substance-use prevention, educational inclusion of vulnerable groups, and professional training for social-work practitioners. Publications & Trends: His recent scholarship (2019-2024) reveals a strong trajectory exploring how children’s and adolescent literature can foster moral judgement, intercultural dialogue, and prevention of delinquency. Parallel strands investigate the impact of pandemic conditions on substance use and the design of evidence-based school programmes. Research Leadership & Grants: Project manager: “Social and Pedagogical Aspects of the Problem of the Use of Psychoactive Substances” (2021-2022, state budget) Principal investigator: “Formation of socio-pedagogical and legal concepts among students…” (2022, NP “Young Scientists”) Key expert: BG05M2ОP001-2.011-0001 “Support for Success” – early-warning toolkit for at-risk students Partner: BGLD-2.002-0001-C01 “Capacity building for educational and social inclusion…” (EEA Grants 2021-2022) Languages: English, Russian Contact: d.polihronov@fp.uni-sofia.bg | Phone: (+359 2) 9308 568
Ekateryna Todorova, PhD, is an Associate Professor at the Department of Health Care and Social Work, New Bulgarian University. She specializes in developmental dyslexia, speech therapy, and special educational needs. Her career spans over two decades in academic and clinical roles. Research Interests: Dyslexia diagnostics and therapy Articulation and phonological disorders Executive function in learning disabilities Educational technology for special needs Developmental language impairments Inclusive education practices Academic Contributions: She has authored multiple books and chapters on developmental dyslexia and articulation disorders, including Bulgarian adaptations of international diagnostic tools like DDE-2. Her recent research focuses on literacy training for children with physical disabilities using assistive technologies. Professional Roles: Former dean of the Bachelor's Faculty (2016-2020), former director of quality commission, and academic mentor in EU-funded projects like Erasmus+ and Human Resources Development Program.
Prof. Michail Michailov serves as Professor and head of the 'Theory and Methodology of Sports Training' sector at the Department of Theory of Sport Training, Faculty of Sport, National Sports Academy in Sofia, Bulgaria. Teaching since 2001, he earned his Doctor of Sciences degree in 2020 and was appointed Professor in 2023, specializing in sports training methodology and rock climbing physiology. His educational milestones: Doctoral degree (Doctor) in 2006 Doctor of Sciences degree in 2020 Professor appointment in 2023 Michailov's research centers on sport-specific physiological testing, elite athlete performance evaluation, and rock climbing training methodology. He developed innovative equipment for peripheral aerobic/anaerobic capacity assessment and focuses on translating scientific findings into practical training applications for climbers. His work bridges sports science theory with elite athletic performance optimization. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2016-2024) reveals dominant focus on climbing biomechanics and physiology, particularly finger strength metrics, muscle endurance testing, and training adaptations. Key trends include validation of sport-specific assessment tools, blood flow restriction applications, and energy system contributions to climbing performance, with strong international collaboration patterns across European institutions. No formal scientific awards are documented, though he serves as guest editor for Frontiers and reviews for high-impact sports science journals, indicating peer recognition. He manages National Sports Academy research projects and international Erasmus initiatives, providing scientific support for elite athletes through performance testing and methodological guidance. While no formal students are listed, his coaching background informs practical knowledge transfer. Michailov actively contributes to the UIAA medical commission and leads development of a European sport climbing coach training system, with collaborations at Charles University (Prague), Krakow Academy of Physical Education, and Cologne Sports University.
Assoc. Prof. Milena Kuleva holds a Ph.D. from the National Sports Academy "Vassil Levski" and serves as Associate Professor in the Department DEOIT's Motion Analysis Information Technologies Section. Her roles include leading the Center for Innovative Educational Technologies (2024) and previously heading the ITAD Section (2020). She specializes in e-learning, sports pedagogy, and educational technology. Kuleva has extensive international project experience through EU programs like Leonardo da Vinci, Erasmus+, and Horizon 2020, focusing on distance learning and sports professional training. She is an award-winning researcher with a Fulbright Scholarship (2021) and has authored 25+ peer-reviewed articles including a monograph on online learning. Her editorial work includes roles with the Journal of Applied Sports Sciences and FIEP European Congress. Kuleva teaches courses in informatics, digital competence, and specialized software for sports disciplines. Education: Bachelor's: National Sports Academy, Physical Education & Tennis (2005) Master's: Sport for High Achievements (2007) Doctorate: Management of Interactive Educational Platforms (2016) Research Interests: Focuses on integrating technology into sports education, including VR applications in physical education, online proctoring systems, and athlete mental health. Her work emphasizes ethical issues like harassment prevention in sports and academic integrity in e-learning environments. She explores pandemic impacts on student success and physical fitness recovery post-COVID-19. Key Achievements: Organizing secretary for major international congresses (FIEP, Sport & Security series) Project evaluator for EU Sport Programme since 2020 Member of editorial boards for sports science publications Grants & Labs: Led projects on distance learning system development (2014) and digital education forms (2007-2013). Currently oversees the Center for Innovative Educational Technologies, focusing on adaptive e-learning platforms for sports professionals.
Boryana Traycheva Simeonova serves as Assistant Professor at the Department of Health Care within the Faculty of Public Health at Medical University of Sofia. With over a decade of academic service, she contributes significantly to healthcare education and research, focusing on maternal and child health services within Bulgaria's healthcare system. Her work bridges clinical practice with academic scholarship through collaborations with major healthcare institutions including "Tsaritsa Joanna" University Hospital and Fifth Hospital EAD in Sofia. Her educational qualifications include: Bachelor's degree in Healthcare Management (2000) Master's degree in Healthcare Management (2010) PhD in "Social Medicine and Organization of Healthcare and Pharmacy" (2016) Specialty in "Public Health" (2020) Professor Simeonova's research centers on midwifery training systems and healthcare delivery in obstetrics, gynecology, and neonatology. Her doctoral work on "Social and Health Aspects of Cervical Cancer Prevention" established her expertise in women's health policy. She has developed specialized educational materials for midwifery students and contributes to healthcare policy frameworks through publications in the "Health Policy and Management" journal. Her recent work increasingly integrates pharmacological research with public health applications. Analysis of her 40+ publications reveals strong focus on pharmacological interventions for neurodegenerative diseases, metabolic disorders, and hepatoprotective agents. Her methodology combines computational approaches (molecular docking, structure-activity analysis) with rigorous in vivo validation, demonstrating translational research capabilities across multiple therapeutic areas. Recent work shows particular emphasis on natural product research for metabolic and neurological conditions. Professional affiliations include: Bulgarian Scientific Society for Public Health (BSPH) Scientific Society for Medical Education (BSME) Professor Simeonova actively supervises student research projects and participates in national healthcare initiatives. She contributes to curriculum development for midwifery programs and leads advanced training courses for healthcare professionals. Her departmental work focuses on healthcare system organization with direct applications to maternal and child health services through clinical partnerships across Sofia's major hospitals.
Prof. Tzvetan Jeljazkov is a distinguished Professor at the Department of Theory of Sport Training within the Faculty of Sport at National Sports Academy 'Vasil Levski' in Sofia, Bulgaria. Born on December 24, 1930, in Raianovtsi, Bulgaria, he graduated with excellence from the same academy in 1953. His career spans roles as a basketball coach (1953-1967), academic (since 1967), and sports administrator including Vice Minister of Sports (1995-1997). His research focuses on Sport Training Theory , Optimization of Athletic Performance , Conditional Training , Sports Adaptation , Basketball Coaching Methodology , and Mathematical Modeling in Sports . He has published over 200 works including 26 monographs, with 40 translated internationally, applying statistical methods to optimize elite athlete training. Recent publications (1997-2009) demonstrate his focus on sports training theory, athletic adaptation, and performance optimization. Key themes include physiological conditioning, methodological frameworks for elite athletes, biosocial aspects of sports achievement, and periodization strategies across endurance, basketball, and foundational training disciplines. Honored Basketball Coach (1961) Honorable Symbol of Sofia – 1st Degree (1958) Gold Medal of Labor (1972, 1988) Kiril and Methodii – 2nd Degree (1980) Kiril and Metodii – 1st Degree (2011) 1300 Years of Bulgaria – Jubilee Medal (1981) Gold Medal for Special Merits – 1st Degree (1983) Honored Figure (1983) Man of the Year by American Biographical Institute (2004) Meritorius Professor, University of Zagreb (2009) He advises doctoral candidates at NSA and directed scientific programs for Bulgarian Olympic teams (1964-1996). As Dean of After-Graduate Qualification (1976-1979) and department head (1973-1982), he established academic frameworks for sport methodology. He continues to lecture on sport training theory to all academic levels.
Emil Videv, Ph.D., serves as a Chief Assistant in the Department of Gymnastics at the Faculty of Public Health, Health Care and Tourism. His core expertise spans multiple gymnastics disciplines: Artistic Gymnastics Rhythmic Gymnastics Aerobics Acrobatics Dance His research and teaching focus on performance techniques, training methodologies, and skill development within Sports Science and Physical Education. This work directly supports curriculum delivery in gymnastics and movement-based disciplines, emphasizing practical application in athletic training and physical conditioning.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vesela Hadzhinikolova is an Associate Professor at the National Academy of Theater and Film Arts "Kr. Sarafov" in Sofia, Bulgaria. She holds a Doctorate in Theater Studies and Theater Arts (2022) and has been affiliated with the Department of Puppet Theatre since 2004. Her academic roles include teaching courses on Stage Movement, Acrobatics, and Plastic Development of the Actor. University: National Academy of Theater and Film Arts "Kr. Sarafov" Faculty: Faculty of Performing Arts Department: Department of Puppet Theatre Education: Bachelor's in Acting for Puppet Theater (1997) Master's in Choreographic Direction (2013) Doctorate in Theater Studies (2022) Research Interests focus on integrating acrobatics, movement, and physical theater into actor training. She has authored choreography and stage fight designs for over 20 theatrical productions and films, emphasizing collaborative and physically demanding performances. Key Awards: Jubilee Golden Badge of Honor (2024), Ross Wood Award (2020), and recognition at international film festivals. Her work bridges traditional theater with innovative physical techniques.
Chris Kraus is Professor of Creative Writing at The European Graduate School and has held visiting professorships at Art Center College of Design, University of California San Diego, New York University, San Francisco Art Institute, and Los Angeles Contemporary Archives. A Los Angeles-based writer and art critic, she co-edits the influential Semiotext(e) press and contributes to major publications including Artforum, The New York Times, and Los Angeles Review of Books. Her educational background includes a Bachelor's degree in Literature and Political Theory from Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand, supplemented by acting studies with Ruth Maleczech of Mabou Mines and economic theory training at the New York School for Marxist Education. Early journalism experience with New Zealand's Sunday Times and Evening Post informed her interdisciplinary approach. Kraus's research traverses creative writing, art criticism, and cultural theory through an autofictional lens that merges autobiography, philosophy, and artistic practice. She examines intersections of gender, capitalism, and artistic production while documenting contemporary art movements—particularly Los Angeles' 1990s scene—and exploring philosophical frameworks from French theory. Her work consistently challenges disciplinary boundaries through experimental narrative forms. Analysis of her recent articles reveals sustained engagement with underrepresented artistic practices, critical examinations of power structures in cultural production, and innovative approaches to documenting ephemeral art forms. She demonstrates particular interest in feminist interventions, regional art ecologies, and the material conditions of artistic labor across diverse media. Her significant recognition includes: Frank Jewett Mather Award for Art Journalism (2008) from the College Art Association, honoring her transformative impact on art writing through wit, honesty, and theoretical innovation As an educator, Kraus has mentored emerging writers through institutional teaching and editorial work, notably as fiction editor for Bomb magazine. Her curatorial projects—including the 2012 'Radical Localism' exhibition at Artists Space—demonstrate commitment to supporting community-based artistic practices and economic activism within art contexts. Kraus operates within collaborative frameworks centered on Semiotext(e), where she works with Sylvère Lotringer and Hedi El Kholti to publish critical theory and experimental literature. Her current projects include a critical biography of Kathy Acker, continuing her decades-long engagement with feminist literary legacies and avant-garde traditions through transnational artistic networks.
Professor Milena Aleksieva is a distinguished academic at the Department of Theory and Methods of Physical Education within the Faculty of Education at University of Veliko Tarnovo. With over two decades of scholarly contributions, she has established herself as a leading expert in physical education, basketball training methodologies, and adapted physical activity for individuals with special needs. Her research focuses on physical development of children, game-based approaches to physical education, and 3x3 basketball training. Her primary research interests include the physical development of children (particularly ages 6-12), basketball pedagogy, adapted physical activity for people with special needs, and health promotion through physical activity. Professor Aleksieva has extensively studied how game-based approaches enhance physical education outcomes and has made significant contributions to understanding the specific training needs of 3x3 basketball players. Her recent scholarly work (2021-2025) demonstrates continued productivity with publications spanning topics from doctoral competencies in academic writing to 3x3 basketball training approaches. Her research consistently addresses practical applications in physical education settings while maintaining rigorous scientific methodology. Professor Aleksieva actively contributes to the academic community through leadership in multiple research projects focused on improving scientific publications in physical education and mentoring young researchers. She participates in international cooperation through Erasmus+ projects and has contributed to the development of student sports schools.
Dr. Petar Petrov serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Kinesitherapy at the Faculty of Public Health, Medical University - Sofia. With clinical expertise developed across Bulgaria's premier rehabilitation institutions including 'Serdika' Rehabilitation Hospital, Rego - Specialized Rehabilitation Center, and 'Tsaritsa Joanna - ISUL' University Hospital, he bridges academic theory with practical patient care. His research focuses on neurorehabilitation of patients with acute and chronic neurological conditions , particularly stroke survivors and those with craniocerebral injuries, spinal cord trauma, and multiple sclerosis. Petrov specializes in motor function recovery through evidence-based kinesitherapy protocols, with particular interest in dynamic balance restoration in ischemic stroke patients as demonstrated in his neurosonology publications. Analysis of his recent publications reveals expanding research interests connecting physiotherapy with cystic fibrosis management, particularly regarding treatment adherence and multidisciplinary care approaches for respiratory conditions. His work demonstrates growing integration of neurological rehabilitation principles with broader respiratory disease management. International Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Alliance (ISRRA) member Bulgarian Association of Physiotherapists (BAPT/BAPH) member Bulgarian Association of Healthcare Professionals (BAPZG/BAHP) member Recipient of 'Rehabilitator of the Year' award Petrov actively participates in international congresses on physiotherapy and neurology, having completed specialized training in Austria on 'Clinical pathways in stroke rehabilitation.' His clinical approach emphasizes evidence-based assessment and practical therapeutic recommendations. He maintains strong connections with rehabilitation teams across Bulgaria's major medical centers and contributes to advancing neurorehabilitation standards through both clinical practice and scholarly work.
Assoc. Prof. Grigor Gutev, PhD, is a faculty member at the National Sports Academy "Vasil Levski" in the Faculty of Pedagogy , specializing in Athletics . Holding a PhD in sports science, he has served as Chief Assistant Professor since 2017 and teaches athletics to international students under the Erasmus+ program. His career spans academia, engineering (as a Master of Engineering in Automotive Electronics), and sports coaching. Education: Doctorate in Athletics (2015), Master's in High-Achievement Sports - Athletics (2011), Bachelor's in Physical Education (2010) Current roles: Chief Assistant Professor, Erasmus+ program lecturer, and athletics coach Organizer of the Nikola Valchanov Athletics Tournament (since 2007) and member of the "Athletics & Science" journal editorial board His research focuses on sprint and obstacle course training , with emphasis on technical development in disciplines like the 110m hurdles. He has authored over 60 publications and participated in 15+ international conferences, particularly examining youth athletics, throws training, and sports conditioning. His work explores the interplay between physical performance metrics and training methodologies. Gutev's recent publications address the evolution of hurdlers' technical skills and performance factors in sprinting. These studies highlight trends in track-and-field training and achievement optimization. He also contributes to fitness coaching through practical roles with professional football clubs (CSKA 1948) and youth sports schools. Additional qualifications include proficiency in English (Cambridge B2), Russian, and software tools like SPSS, Adobe Creative Suite, and Kinovea. His career bridges academic research, pedagogical practice, and competitive sports, reflecting a multidisciplinary approach to athletics training.
Prof. Marin Gadev serves as Professor and Head of the Department of Athletics within the Faculty of Pedagogy at Bulgaria's National Sports Academy 'Vasil Levski'. His academic leadership includes directing the 'Conditioning Training' sub-program for the 'Sport for High Achievements' master's program and serving on the Academy's Academic and Faculty Councils from 2001-2019. Education: Master's Degree in Track and Field Athletics Coaching and Physical Education Teaching (1981-1985, 'G. Dimitrov' Sports Institute) PhD in Sports Science (1995) on sprint running biomechanics DSc (2014) on youth football conditioning methodologies His research pioneers synergistic conditioning models bridging biological systems theory with athletic performance. Core expertise spans sprint technique optimization , motor quality development (speed/speed-power), and football-specific conditioning . His work integrates theoretical frameworks with practical training protocols across athletics and team sports, emphasizing evidence-based approaches for youth athletes and elite performers. Publication analysis reveals a 30-year research trajectory evolving from foundational sprint biomechanics (1990s) to advanced synergistic conditioning models (2010s). Recent works focus on motor mobility monitoring in youth football and warm-up science , demonstrating consistent translation of theoretical concepts into sport-specific applications. His scholarship shows particular strength in connecting conditioning principles across athletics and football contexts. Scientific Awards: Honorary citizen of Kyustendil (1995) Gadev has supervised 4 doctoral students to completion while authoring 71 scientific publications (16 international). His academic service includes editorial board membership for 'Athletics & Science' journal. Though specific grant details aren't documented, his sustained research output and leadership roles reflect significant scholarly impact. His dual expertise manifests in both academic publications and practical coaching applications across multiple sports. His operational environment spans the National Sports Academy's athletics department and high-performance football programs. Practical implementation occurs through collaborations with national teams and professional clubs where his conditioning methodologies directly influence athlete development and competitive outcomes.
