Name and Surname: Nikita Šarkov
Organization: Åbo Akademi University (ABO)
Major Fields of Research/Activity: Heterogeneous Catalysis, Hydrocracking, Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF)
- What is your role in the YAF project? What are you currently working on within the scope of YAF?
I develop and test catalysts to upgrade fatty acids and microbial oils into aviation-range hydrocarbons, supporting the production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
- Why do you think the YAF research is important for your career development and how it will impact the society?
YAF strengthens my expertise in catalysis and sustainable fuels while enabling cleaner aviation by converting renewable feedstocks into drop-in SAF and reducing CO₂ emissions.
- What or who inspired you to go into academia/research?
I was inspired by the idea that chemistry and catalysis can turn real-world problems like energy, climate, and resources into solvable engineering challenges.
- For you, what is most challenging and/or exciting about your work in YAF?
The most exciting part is steering catalyst selectivity to control product distribution. The challenge is achieving high conversion with minimal by-products and stable long-term performance.
- Write a catchy slogan for your IRP.
Catalysts that turn renewable oils into cleaner flights.
- Where can we find you after work? Doing what?
After work you’ll find me making music, playing guitar, training, or taking a long walk to reset my head.
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