Exploring the Potential of Carbon Materials - Interview with Dr. Conchi Ania
Dr. Conchi Ania is an esteemed chemist with a distinguished career in the field of carbon materials. Her expertise spans various applications, including catalysis, environmental remediation, energy storage, and pollutant detection. As the director of the CEMHTI Research Centre at Université d'Orléans, she has made significant contributions to scientific advancements. This interview aims to highlight her journey, insights, and the impact of her research, inspiring young scientists and promoting the importance of scientific discovery.
The following interview is part of the COACH-USV* project, funded by the National Plan for Recovery and Resilience (PNRR). The project's mission is to showcase outstanding scientific research and encourage young people to engage in research activities. One of its key objectives is to present groundbreaking discoveries to both Romanian and international audiences, highlighting the work of scientists who innovate, create, and contribute valuable advancements to society.
Passion for Carbon Materials
USV: You have made remarkable contributions to the field of carbon materials. What drew you to this specific area of chemistry?
Dr. Conchi Ania: My interest in carbon materials began early in my scientific career, and I quickly realized their vast range of applications. Over time, working with these materials for different purposes allowed me to become an expert in the field. Carbon materials offer numerous opportunities in catalysis, environmental remediation, energy storage, and pollutant detection. My journey started when I completed my degree in Chemistry and applied for a 9-month Erasmus internship. I was accepted at the School of Chemical Science in Dublin City University (DCU), where I worked on using carbon materials to develop sensors for detecting organic pollutants in solutions. This experience introduced me to these versatile materials and ignited my passion for research. After returning to Spain, I secured funding for starting PhD studies at the National Institute of Carbon Science and Technology in Oviedo. My research focused on using carbon materials for water and wastewater purification. Over the past 20 years, I have explored their applications in various fields, continually discovering new possibilities. One of the most fascinating aspects of carbon materials is their adaptability—they can be modified for specific purposes, whether removing pollutants from water or detecting contaminants in food and beverages.
Balancing Research, Leadership, and Personal Life
USV: You have an extensive publication record in prestigious scientific journals and lead research initiatives in France. How do you balance your professional responsibilities with personal life?
Dr. Conchi Ania: Time management depends on the projects I am involved in. Some periods are dedicated to securing research funding, which involves engaging with collaborators and writing proposals. Staying updated with the latest scientific developments is a daily task, as research is constantly evolving. My role as an editor for a scientific journal also helps me stay informed about the latest breakthroughs.
Once funding is secured, I focus on executing research activities, coordinating experimental work, and guiding students and postdoctoral researchers. This process requires continuous learning and collaboration. Research is demanding, and passion is essential for success.
Balancing personal life is challenging, but having a supportive partner who understands my dedication to science makes it easier. Advances in communication technology also help maintain connections despite frequent travel and long hours in the lab.
Mentoring Future Scientists
USV: As a researcher and mentor, how do you approach working with students? What qualities do you value most in young researchers?
Dr. Conchi Ania: Although I am primarily a researcher at CNRS (France's National Research Centre for Science), I choose to engage in teaching and mentorship. I collaborate with universities in France and internationally, delivering lectures and supervising students.
Training the next generation of scientists is a critical part of research. Scientific progress relies not only on discovery but also on passing knowledge to future researchers. I currently supervise five PhD students and several master’s students. Our team holds regular discussions, ensuring they develop independent thinking and communication skills.
The most important qualities I look for in students are passion, dedication, and curiosity. Research is a challenging career path, so students must be intrinsically motivated. Independence in thinking is crucial; they should not merely follow instructions but actively seek answers and new approaches. Curiosity drives scientific progress and cannot be taught—it must come naturally.
The Importance of Scientific Communication
USV: How important is it for researchers to present their work to students and colleagues?
Dr. Conchi Ania: Communication is vital in research. All my publications result from teamwork, and discussions with colleagues are key to making scientific progress. Even with the best research infrastructure, collaboration and knowledge exchange bring new perspectives that enhance discoveries. In our research group, we hold regular seminars where students present their work, receive feedback, and build confidence. Before attending conferences, we conduct practice sessions to refine presentation skills, and afterward, we analyze feedback to improve future performances. Learning to communicate scientific findings effectively is an essential skill for any researcher.
Collaboration with Romania and the INTELDOTS Project
USV: You are currently working on a project at the PETRU PONI Institute of Chemistry in Iași, Romania. Can you tell us more about this collaboration?
Dr. Conchi Ania: My collaboration with Romania began with a project at Gheorghe Asachi Technical University in Iași, where I worked with Professors Cornel Stan and Marcel Popa as part of the European-funded LEAP-RE program. During my visits, I connected with researchers at the PETRU PONI Institute, leading to my involvement in the INTELDOTS project. INTELDOTS focuses on carbon nanomaterials called carbon dots, which have fluorescence properties and potential applications in bioimaging and cancer treatment. The project required an international director, and I was invited to take on this role. Since I have worked with carbon dots in solar energy applications, this project allows me to explore their use in medical fields, creating a valuable exchange of knowledge. At „PETRU PONI” Institute of Chemistry, experts in biomedical applications handle in vivo and in vitro testing, while I contribute expertise in material synthesis and fluorescence analysis. This collaboration is a perfect example of how scientific exchange fosters innovation.
Reflections on Romania
USV: How do you find Iași and Romania?
Dr. Conchi Ania: I enjoy Iași and Romanian culture. As a Spaniard, I find many similarities between our cultures. Romanians take great pride in their heritage and are very welcoming. My experiences here have been enriching, both personally and professionally.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Conchi Ania’s passion for research, dedication to mentoring young scientists, and commitment to international collaboration exemplify the impact that scientific work can have on society. Her contributions to carbon materials research continue to open new possibilities, from environmental applications to medical advancements. We thank Dr. Ania for sharing her journey and insights and look forward to seeing the future developments of her work.
Prof. Univ. Dr. Elena-Brândușa Steiciuc Director, COACH-USV
Lecturer Dr. Sergiu Raiu Sociological Advisor, COACH-USV
Drd. Oana Grosu Psychological Advisor, COACH-USV
*This material was published with the support of Project Code 9/31.01.2023 “Creation and Development of the Centre for Guidance, Association and Career Counselling for Researchers in the North-East Development Region of Romania within the ‘Ștefan cel Mare’ University of Suceava (COACH-USV)”
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Sergiu Raiu 3/14/2025 |
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