Early Academic Pursuits:
Dr. María Vanessa Tabernero Magro began her academic journey by earning a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Alcalá, where she currently serves as a Lecturer (Associate Professor) in Inorganic Chemistry. Her early research focused on the synthesis and characterization of group 4 metals complexes with cyclopentadienyl ligands, specifically their activity as catalysts in Ziegler-Natta processes for styrene and ethylene polymerization.
Professional Endeavors:
Throughout her career, She has engaged in diverse research endeavors, including research stays at the Universitá degli Studi di Salerno, Italy, under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Alfonso Grassi. She expanded her research to heterogeneous polymerization processes, developing a new type of solid cocatalyst for Ziegler-Natta ethylene polymerization using modified clays. Her contributions also extend to catalytic processes, exploring s-block metal compounds for ring opening polymerization, and investigating catalytic oxidation of olefins and sulfides, along with the obtention of biopolymers.
Contributions and Research Focus:
With a research experience spanning more than 15 years, She has made significant contributions, supervising multiple doctoral theses and contributing to various innovative teaching projects. Her research, reflected in 28 articles in high-impact journals, spans areas such as polymerization, catalysis, and the synthesis of biopolymers from biomass.
Accolades and Recognition:
Her impactful work has garnered recognition, with an H-index of 13 and 398 citations. Notably, she led the project "Titanium nanocatalysts for sulfoxidation processes" and received awards in 2020 and 2022 for the "Most original and innovative formula for disseminating science to society" at the Science Promotion and Popularisation Awards.
Impact and Influence:
Dr. Tabernero Magro's impact extends beyond research, with active participation in numerous national and international research projects. As the Dean of Chemistry Degree at the University of Alcalá from 2017 to 2023, she played a crucial role in shaping the academic landscape.
Legacy and Future Contributions:
Her legacy includes a wealth of scientific publications, successful supervision of doctoral and master's theses, and a substantial teaching experience of over 3,500 hours. Currently involved in the "GREATBOND" project, Dr. Tabernero Magro continues to contribute to greener approaches for smart composite hybrid materials.In the future, her focus on polymerization from biomass, particularly promising results with anethole and myrcene, showcases a commitment to sustainable and circular practices in the field of chemistry. Dr. Tabernero Magro's dedication to both research and education positions her as a significant figure in the chemistry community, leaving a lasting impact on the scientific landscape.