New team member

• How did you learn about our group? How did you get here?

The GreenCat Research Group led by Assoc. Prof. David at UCT Prague is very inspiring because it provides solutions for the world’s energy crisis and the conducted works that are very beneficial and related to my primary research interest as well. The catalysis research work carried out by the Group is highly interdisciplinary which focused preferentially in the area of catalysis for environmental and energy applications. This is one of the main aspects of my PhD research. I’ve been following David’s works for many years now, and his success in hydrodeoxygenation research makes the group internationally recognized as a center of excellence for catalysis research.

• What is your project at UCT about?

My research project is about designing a multifunctional catalyst for an effective volarization efficient of biomass-derived oxygenates to advanced biofuels and petrochemicals. Designing a trifunctional catalyst (metal-doped acid-base catalyst) for an effective one-pot transformation of biomass-derived platform chemicals (oxygenates such as furfural and acetone) to biofuels and petrochemical products. The one-pot catalytic transformation of renewable biomass to fuels and chemicals is one of the very attractive and crucial clean energy technologies that can reduce the issues associated with biomass disposal in various countries, as agricultural and forestry practices produce a large amount of biomass wastes derived from harvestable yield.

• What is your previous experience?

My previous experience has mainly been directed towards the development of hierarchical nanozeolites and renewable fuels from biomass, with experience in high-pressure batch reactor systems and extensive study of catalyst systems. I have acquired various advanced catalyst characterization techniques and credible skills in performing kinetics and mechanism of the catalytic reactions, particularly hydrodeoxygenation (HDO).

• What is your experience with living in the Czech Republic?

Prague is a beautiful city that I had always wanted to visit. I really love the city with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Besides, the people from the university are very helpful and friendly.