Foundations in Greece — Where It All Started

My path began in Greece, where I completed an integrated Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Biological Applications & Technologies at the University of Ioannina. I continued with a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering – Biotechnology at the National Technical University of Athens (NTUA), working on plant and algal biomass-to-ethanol processes. These early projects shaped my long-standing commitment to sustainable bioprocessing and bio-innovation.

Postdoctoral Research in the United States — Expanding Horizons

My next chapter took me to Patel College of Global Sustainability at the University of South Florida (USF), where I managed the Biofuels & Bioproducts Lab, focusing on algae and biomass technologies for cost-effective biofuels and bioproducts. During this time, I also developed and taught the graduate course “Bioresources for a Sustainable Future”, strengthening my ability to translate complex bioprocess concepts into practical, real-world applications.

Applied Research in Sweden — Turning Biomass Into Materials

I later moved to Sweden to join KTH Royal Institute of Technology as a researcher. My work centered on valorizing forestry and pulp-and-paper byproducts, converting industrial side streams into bio-based materials and coatings for packaging and biomedical uses. This period deepened my interest in circular-economy bioprocesses and the interface between biotechnology and materials science.

Industry Leadership — Scaling Algae Innovation

I transitioned into industry as R&D Director at Volta Greentech, a Stockholm-based startup developing a seaweed-based feed supplement designed to reduce methane emissions from cows. I led the research program, built experimental pipelines, and helped shape the scientific strategy behind one of the most ambitious climate-tech concepts in the Nordics.

Industrial Bioprocessing — From Lab to Full-Scale Production

Today, I work as Senior Algal Specialist at AstaReal Sweden, where I lead the cultivation laboratory at the production site. My role spans the entire chain — from lab-scale cultures to full-scale industrial production — ensuring stable, high-yield cultivation of natural astaxanthin. I oversee product quality and safety across all stages, maintaining robust processes from early R&D to commercial manufacturing.

Looking Back — A Journey Through Sustainability, Biology, and Engineering

Across academia, applied research, and industry, my journey has always revolved around one theme: using biology and engineering to create sustainable, scalable solutions.

For a concise overview of who I am today, visit my About Me page.