Dr. SOFIA PAPADAKI | Chemical Engineering | Women Researcher Award

Dr. SOFIA PAPADAKI, Senior Researcher, DIGNITY IKE, Greece

Sophia Papadaki, PhD, is a distinguished Chemical Engineer specializing in the sustainable recovery of value-added products from biomass. Her expertise spans hydrolysis, extraction techniques, and biomass processing to derive poly- and monosaccharides, proteins, antioxidants, and natural colorants. With over 70 publications, she is a prominent researcher in her field, contributing to European Commission-funded projects. Sophia’s work emphasizes drying and extraction technologies for biomass valorization, reflecting her commitment to integrating innovative and eco-friendly solutions.

Profile

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Strengths for the Award

Extensive Expertise: Dr. Sophia Papadaki is an accomplished chemical engineer with a PhD specializing in biomass valorization, a field critical for sustainable development. Her work includes the recovery of high-value compounds from biomass, utilizing innovative extraction methods.

Significant Research Contributions: She has co-authored over 70 publications in reputed journals, reflecting a strong academic output and her significant contributions to chemical engineering and environmental sustainability.

Recognition and Awards: Her achievements include multiple postdoctoral excellence scholarships and awards from prestigious institutions like IKY/Siemens. This demonstrates recognition of her work’s impact in industrial technology, nanotechnology, and food microbiology.

Project Leadership and Experience: As a co-founder and project manager at PRINSUS TECHNOVLASTOS IKE and DIGNITY P.C., she has led projects on sustainable technologies and feasibility studies, showcasing her leadership in applied industrial research.

International Collaboration: Her work with European Commission-funded projects (FP6, FP7, H2020) indicates a robust background in international research collaboration and proposal writing.

Areas for Improvement

Diversifying Research Focus: While her expertise in biomass valorization is strong, diversifying into emerging fields such as bioplastic development or renewable energy sources could further enhance her profile.

Increased Mentorship Roles: Although involved in research supervision, more active mentoring of junior researchers and PhD students could amplify her influence in the academic community.

Broader Impact of Publications: Expanding her publication outreach to include interdisciplinary journals may increase the visibility of her research beyond the chemical engineering field.

Education 🎓

Sophia Papadaki holds a PhD in Chemical Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens (2014), focusing on biomass exploitation and chemical pulp coloration using natural dyes. She completed her MSc in Energy Management and Environmental Protection Systems (2010) with a thesis on utilizing lignocellulosic materials for biofuel and chemical production. Her undergraduate degree (2008) from NTUA included specialization in organic industries and a thesis on synthesizing copolyesters.

Experience 🏢

Sophia has extensive experience in project management and research, serving as Co-founder of PRINSUS TECHNOVLASTOS IKE (2021-present), leading projects in the agri-food sector. She is also a Director at DIGNITY PRIVATE COMPANY, focusing on process integration and product development. Her research experience includes EU-funded projects at NTUA and roles at CERTH and MEDBIO S.A., showcasing her expertise in industrial processes and sustainable technologies.

Research Interests 🔬

Sophia’s research focuses on biomass valorization, emphasizing hydrolysis, extraction methods, and sustainable processing technologies. Her work involves developing eco-friendly methods for extracting bioactive compounds, optimizing processes through Life Cycle Analysis, and integrating drying techniques. She has a strong interest in the recovery of antioxidants, proteins, and natural colorants from renewable sources, aiming for innovative applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.

Awards and Honors 🏆

• 2020: IKY Post Doctoral Excellence Scholarship for “CLEANET” project on corrosion protection in fish farming.
• 2017: IKY/Siemens Scholarship for microalgal biomass drying process integration.
• 2015: IKY/Siemens Scholarship for developing nutraceutical products from microalgal bioactive compounds.
• 2017: Research Paper Award by the International Committee of Food Microbiology.
• 2014: 2nd Prize at the Blue Growth Innovation Competition for Maritime Economy.

Publication Top Notes 📚

Sustainability (2024): Assessing sustainability in the meat processing industry after wastewater valorization.

Marine Drugs (2024): Innovative bioactive products from microalgae and process optimization.

Resources (2023): Green extraction of bioactive compounds from olive pomace.

Resources (2023): Valorization of peach and apricot waste using green solvents.

Waste (2023): Promoting biowaste management and industrial symbiosis.

 

Conclusion

Sophia Papadaki’s impressive track record, leadership in sustainable technologies, and contributions to biomass valorization make her an excellent candidate for the “Women Researcher Award.” Her diverse skills and recognized expertise align well with the award’s focus on innovation and impactful research, positioning her as a strong nominee who could serve as a role model for women in science and engineering.