Name and Surname: Maria Spinosa
Organization: IMDEA Energy
Major Fields of Research/Activity: Heterogeneous Catalysis, Hydrodeoxygenation, Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF)
- What is your role in the YAF project? What are you currently working on within the scope of YAF?
I focus on designing and testing catalysts that upgrade waste-derived fatty acids into aviation-range hydrocarbons, enabling sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production through an efficient one-pot process.
- Why do you think the YAF research is important for your career development and how it will impact the society?
YAF allows me to grow as a scientist while working on a real climate solution. Aviation is hard to decarbonize, and transforming waste into fuel can cut emissions and reduce our dependence on fossil resources.
- What or who inspired you to go into academia/research?
My mother inspired me from an early age. She was a teacher and showed me how powerful knowledge can be and how it can shape people’s lives. During my first catalysis course, I felt a real sense of excitement, and I understood that this was my path and that I wanted to make a difference through research.
- For you, what is most challenging and/or exciting about your work in YAF?
The most exciting part is designing reactions that guide molecules exactly where I want them to go. The challenge is controlling every step of the process so we maximize fuel production while minimizing waste and energy use.
- Write a catchy slogan for your IRP.
May the catalysis be with you. Trust the one pot.
- Where can we find you after work? Doing what?
You can find me listening to music at home, reading at the park, taking photos around the city, going to an exhibition, trying a new recipe, at the cinema, swimming, or looking for the next jam session. I’m rarely in just one place.
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