Dr. Maria BERCEA | Gels Incorporating Natural | Best Researcher Award
Dr. at Petru Poni Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry , Romania
Esteemed polymer physicist and materials scientist with over three decades of experience in complex fluids, polymer networks, and stimuli-responsive materials. A prolific author with 210 Web of Science-indexed publications and over 2600 citations (h-index: 29). Actively engaged in international collaborations, leading 12 national projects and co-directing 7 international grants. President of the Romanian Society of Rheology and a member of the Romanian Chemical Society since 1992. Recognized with prestigious awards for contributions to polymer science and rheology.
Publication Profile
🎓 Education
Earned comprehensive education in polymer science and materials engineering. Proficient in rheology, viscoelastic fluids, and thermodynamics of polymer solutions. Strong foundation in experimental and theoretical investigations of macromolecules. Academic journey complemented by specialized training in advanced analytical techniques such as light scattering, osmometry, and chromatography.
💼 Experience
Leader in polymer science with extensive experience in rheometry, viscometry, and polymer characterization. Spearheaded 42 national research projects (12 as PI) and participated in 14 international grants. Delivered over 200 conference presentations. Skilled in modeling polymer behavior, conducting thermodynamic studies, and designing hybrid hydrogels for biomedical applications.
🏅 Awards and Honors
Nicolae Teclu Prize (1995) – Romanian Academy of Science Emilian Bratu Medal (2009) – Romanian Chemical Society Founding Member & President (since 2019) – Romanian Society of Rheology Recognized for significant contributions to complex fluids, viscoelastic materials, and polymer science.
🔍 Research Focus
Complex fluids and polymer networks (Newtonian/non-Newtonian fluids) Viscoelastic materials and stimuli-responsive hydrogel Thermodynamics of polymer solutions (cosolvency, polymer/solvent interactions Self-healing hydrogels, injectable biomaterials, and 3D-printing polymers Advanced macromolecular modeling and characterization
Publications 📖
Poly (vinylpyrrolidone) – Biomedical Applications (2015) – 486 citations
🔹 Biomaterials of PVA and PVP (2019) – 478 citations
🔹 Shear Dynamics of Cellulose Whiskers (2000) – 251 citations
🔹 Poly (vinyl alcohol) and Natural Polymers (2018) – 216 citations
🔹 Xanthan Gum Properties (2016) – 126 citations
🔹 In Situ Gelation of PVA (2013) – 118 citations
🔹 Intrinsic Viscosity of Xanthan (2014) – 106 citations
🔹 Rheology of PMMA Solutions (1993) – 93 citations
🔹 Temperature Responsive Gels (2011) – 83 citations
🔹 Self-healing Hydrogels (2019) – 69 citations
🔹 Pullulan Synthesis and Behavior (2014) – 68 citations
🔹 Xanthan-PVA Interactions (2016) – 65 citations
Conclusion
This candidate is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award due to their exceptional contributions to polymer science, hydrogels, and fluid dynamics. Their extensive publication record, leadership in projects, and influential role in rheology reflect outstanding dedication and influence in the field. By expanding international collaborations and focusing on innovation-driven projects, the candidate could further solidify their legacy as a leader in polymer research.