Cultivating young researchers as the torchbearers of innovation and progress

In this blog, we hear from DOROTHY MSCA COFUND awardee Dr Misganaw Zeleke, on his research project PHOTODEC [Design and Synthesis of (, ) Heterostructures and Nanocomposites for PHOTOcatalytic DEgradation of
Contaminants of Emerging Concern and Industrial Waste Chemicals].

The Bureau of Investigative Journalism reported (4^th September 2024) that the deaths from drug resistant infections are projected to soar and everyone is at risk. Patients at different ages admitted to hospitals at each corner of the world are more connected than they know. All are fallen victims to infections that no longer respond to medications. In regions where the provision of safe drinking water is out of reach and industrialized areas where appropriate treatment of waste products is not implemented, the incidence of waterborne diseases spurred by antimicrobial resistance (AMR) microbes and other chronic diseases caused by toxic heavy metals are disconcertingly high. Furthermore, infections that resist the usual treatments contributed to the death of an estimated 5 million people in 2019 alone and deaths from AMR are predicted to reach over 10 million by 2050.

According to Dr Misganaw Zeleke, MSCA DOROTHY fellow, working on photocatalytic degradation of contaminants of emerging concern and industrial waste chemicals, we must focus on cultivating young researchers as they are the heart of the future generations to tackle such destructive impacts. As the torchbearers of innovation and progress, they hold the keys to unlocking new and innovative possibilities through their dedication and hard work and, by nurturing their talents in a supportive and constructive environment, we are sowing the seeds for continued growth and advancement. As part of his MSCA DOROTHY fellowship, Dr Zeleke availed of the opportunity to share his skills and research ideas with a visiting scholar at the University of Limerick, Letizia Sifuentes, and by mentoring her, to ensure that this knowledge-sharing experience will contribute to the collective efforts of creating a more sustainable and thriving future for all.

Letizia Sifuentes, who is a rising young bachelor student enrolled in the Department of Chemical Engineering at the University of Michigan, USA, embarked on a transformative academic journey at the University of Limerick in Ireland, where she conducted her STEM Summer Research work under the follow up and guidance of Dr. Zeleke for an intellectually stimulating period spanning from 29^th May to 19^th July 2024. In the duration of this period, Sifuentes showcased inspirational dedication and unwavering focus, diligently following the guidance from Prof. Kwapinski’s lab and embodying the essence of a true researcher. In her research, she dedicated her efforts to the development of composite nanomaterials aimed at reducing carcinogenic and mutagenic hexavalent chromium [Cr(VI)]. She synthesized a specialized p-n junction catalyst nanomaterial, which was an innovative catalyst structure that enabled the seamless and efficient delocalization of electrons, facilitating the transfer from the electron-rich to electron-deficient component precisely at the boundary region. The delocalized electrons were employed for efficient reduction of Cr(VI). Additionally, her work served as a testament to the immense potential of materials science in addressing complex challenges, further solidifying her reputation as a determined and exemplary young researcher in the field.

Dr. Zeleke believes that mentoring young researchers is the guarantee for our future and underlines that Sifuentes’ participation in the University of Limerick’s STEM Summer Research Programme shows the potential that the programme has in attracting young researchers towards materials science and engineering and application of nanomaterials for remediation of the chronic impacts of chemical pollutants on environment and public health. More information on this international collaboration can be found in Letizia Sifuentes’ interview with the Chemical Department at her host university, where she summarises her experience of working under the supervision of University of Limerick Associate Professor Witold Kwapinski and postdoctoral researcher Misganaw Zeleke and of investigating the efficiency of purifying industry waste water using nanomaterial composites.

For more information about the MSCA DOROTHY COFUND programme, please see the website below

DOROTHY website