Carmen-Mihaela Popescu

Dr. Habil. Carmen Popescu is a leading researcher (R4) at Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry, in Iasi, Romania and is an Associate Researcher at the Centre for Wood Science and Technology, Edinburgh Napier University, UK. She also was an invited professor through two JSPS (Japan Society for Promotion of Science) invitational fellowhips.

She has contributed to several research initiatives focusing on: design and develop bio(nano)composite systems, recycling and upcycling of secondary bio-based residues and wasted bio-based products (extraction of lignocellulosic wastes to obtain high value products, wood waste and wood based products wastes recycle); active food packaging; superabsorbent hydrogels, bio based mulch foils, active seed coatings for agriculture; new and improved bio-based products tageted with specific properties, which allow their reuse, recycling, composting and biodegradation, wood protection technologies, thus promoting innovative environmental practices.

Throughout her career, Carmen has led and participated in 12 national and international scientific projects and 19 COST Actions.

Her extensive training at prestigious institutions in Japan, the UK, Germany, Sweden, Switzerland, Belgium, and Finland, and not only, adds a global dimension to her research. Moreover, she is an Associate Editor and Editorial Board Member of journals such as the International Wood Products Journal, Wood Material Science and Engineering, Forests, Polymers, etc.

Carmen actively encourages international knowledge exchange by organizing and participating in high-profile conferences and workshops, supporting the sustainability of research networks. Her outstanding contributions have been recognized through her inclusion in the World Ranking of Top 2% Scientists by Stanford University (ORCID: 0000-0002-5740-524X)

In her work, she is committed to promoting sustainable technologies for waste management, resue and reciclability and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations across Europe and Asia.