Past Talks

• Tuesday, March 05, 2024 at 17:00 GMT+2

Rachel Avramidou, University of Science and Technology of China

Η εξέλιξη ενός Φυσικού, μέσω της πορείας από το ΕΜΠ στο CERN 

Abstract: Κατά τη διάρκεια της ομιλίας θα γίνει αναφορά στο πείραμα ΑΤΛΑΣ στο LHC του CERN και η συνεισφορά της ομιλήτριας από τις σπουδές της μέχρι σήμερα.

• Tuesday, March 05, 2024 at 18:00 GMT+2

Foteini Asvesta, CERN

Resonances in the CERN Injectors

Abstract: Brief overview of the CERN Injector complex, including a few highlights for each accelerator. Discussion of the main components and the motion in an accelerator. Focus on beam dynamics introducing collective effects and resonance phenomena that can degrade the performance by inducing losses or distorting the beam profiles. Finally, examine techniques for mitigation allowing the production of the LHC beams in the CERN injectors.

• Tuesday, March 05, 2024 at 19:00 GMT+2

Sofia Kostoglou, Beams Department, CERN 

Beam dynamics challenges in the Large Hadron Collider 

Abstract: The Large Hadron Collider, the last stage of CERN’s accelerator complex, is the world’s largest and most powerful collider. At this stage, the two opposing beams are brought to collision at the experimental points and the collider’s performance is measured by the luminosity. A deep understanding and precise control of the beam dynamics is essential, yet numerous factors can impair the beam quality. Strong non-linear fields such as beam-beam effects and noise can induce intensity losses and emittance blow-up and eventually degrade the beam performance. This talk provides an introduction to the main beam challenges that we are facing in the LHC, explores potential mitigation strategies and illustrates methods to optimize the collider’s performance by refining the operational beam and machine parameters. 

• Thursday, March 07, 2024 at 17:00 GMT+2

Artemis Spyrou, Michigan State University

The synthesis of elements in stellar explosions

Abstract: Since its birth roughly 60 years ago, the field of Nuclear Astrophysics strives to provide a comprehensive description of element synthesis in the Universe. While parts of stellar nucleosynthesis are well understood, others remain elusive to this day. Especially, the production of elements heavier than iron has been one of the major open questions in the field. Multiple processes contribute to the complex puzzle of heavy element production. These processes are driven by nuclear reactions, which need to be understood if we hope to describe the astronomical observations. This talk will give an overview of the field of nuclear astrophysics, from an experimental nuclear physics point of view. I will also discuss recent experimental results, as well as new initiatives and future plans at the next generation rare isotope facility, the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at Michigan State University.

• Thursday, March 07, 2024 at 18:00 GMT+2

Eleni Ntemou, Uppsala University

Γυναίκες στην επιστήμη: Η διαδρομή μου και η έρευνα της πυρηνικής φυσικής και των εφαρμογών της

Abstract: Στην παρούσα ομιλία, η ομιλήτρια θα αναφερθεί στην επιστημονική της πορεία από την Ελλάδα στη Σουηδία και στη συνέχεια στην έρευνα της πυρηνικής φυσικής και των εφαρμογών της. Κατά τη διάρκεια της έρευνάς της στην πυρηνική φυσική, μελετά την αλληλεπίδραση φορτισμένων σωματιδίων με την ύλη από την πλευρά της θεμελιώδους φυσικής, δηλαδή την κατανόηση των μηχανισμών απώλειας ενέργειας και τα είδη των αλληλεπιδράσεων όταν ένα φορτισμένο σωματίδιο με ενέργεια σε διαφορετικές περιοχές ενεργειών διασχίζει την ύλη. Ταυτόχρονα, χρησιμοποιεί φορτισμένες δέσμες σωματιδίων για την μελέτη υλικών με υψηλό τεχνολογικό ενδιαφέρον. Σε αυτές τις περιπτώσεις, χρησιμοποιεί τις φορτισμένες δέσμες σωματιδίων για τον προσδιορισμό της στοιχειομετρίας ενός δείγματος, αλλά και για την κατανομή ενός στοιχείου κατά βάθος. Επιπρόσθετα, μελετά υλικά με κρυσταλλική δομή, όπως οι τοπολογικοί μονωτές (topological insulators), όπου οι ιοντικές δέσμες μπορούν να εντοπίσουν με ακρίβεια την θέση ενός συγκεκριμένου στοιχείου στο κρυσταλλικό πλέγμα, το οποίο προσδίδει συγκεκριμένες ιδιότητες στο υλικό.

• Tuesday, March 12, 2024 at 18:00 GMT+2

Cristina Masoller, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya

What are complex systems and what techniques can we use to analyze them?

Abstract: The 2021 Nobel Prize in Physics recognized the fundamental role of complex systems in understanding our climate and the origin of climate change. The key properties of complex systems are high dimensionality and nonlinearity. Furthermore, complex systems are heterogeneous and multiscale. When dealing with a complex system, progress in its characterization and forecast requires the use of appropriate data analysis techniques. Linear techniques often fail to characterize or predict behavior. In this talk, I will present our work in the characterization of complex systems in different fields (optics and photonics, neuroscience, climate and ecology), and I will discuss the nonlinear data analysis techniques that we have used to analyze them. 

• Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 17:00 GMT+2

Maiuri Margherita, Politechnico di Milano

Ultrafast spectroscopy from molecules to nanostructures: using light to study and manipulate matter

Abstract: Ultrafast manipulation of light-matter interactions in photonic nano-architectures has unlocked unprecedented opportunities in the field of nanophotonics, ranging from high speed signal processing to the control of photophysical material functionalities. Especially, using optical means, e.g. femtosecond laser light pulses, to actively drive and dynamically reconfigure nanostructures with ultrafast speed is among the most promising approaches. In this context, I will discuss our contribution to design and experimentally demonstrate the control and the functionality of optically active nanostrucutres in different scenarios[1-4]. Finally, a new paradigm for controlling physico-chemical processes will be proposed to tailor molecular dynamics on demand [5]. By exploiting optical nanostructures, ultrashort laser light pulses and strong light-matter interactions, we aim at manipulating in real-time molecular reactions, with applications ranging from photovoltaics to photocatalysis. 

[1] A. Schirato et al. Nanophotonics, 12, 1-28 (2023) 

[2] A. Schirato, M. Maiuri, et al. Nature Photonics 14, 723-727 (2020).

[3] A. Schirato et al. Adv. Optical Mater. 10, 2102549. (2022).

[4] M. Maiuri et al. https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2681450 (2023)

[5] https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101077181

• Thursday, March 14, 2024 at 18:00 GMT+2

Vasiliki Mitsou, Instituto de Física Corpuscular

Αναζητώντας το μαγνητικό μονόπολο

Abstract: Μία από τις βασικές ιδιότητες του μαγνητισμού είναι η ύπαρξη δύο πόλων σε κάθε μαγνήτη, του βόρειου και του νότιου, οι οποίοι δεν μπορούν να διαχωριστούν σε μεμονωμένους πόλους, τα μαγνητικά μονόπολα. Υπάρχουν ισχυρά θεωρητικά επιχειρήματα υπέρ της ύπαρξης μονοπόλων, αλλά παρά τις εκτεταμένες έρευνες δεν έχουν παρατηρηθεί ακόμη. Σε αυτήν τη διάλεξη, θα δοθεί μια ιστορική εισαγωγή στις θεωρητικές και πειραματικές πτυχές των μαγνητικών μονοπόλων, με έμφαση στην τελευταία λέξη στις αναζητήσεις για αυτά σε ανιχνευτές σε επιταχυντές και ειδικότερα στο Μεγάλο Επιταχυντή Αδρονίων (LHC) του CERN. 

• Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 17:00 GMT+2

Astero Provata, Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, NCSR Demokritos, Athens, Greece

Complex synchronization phenomena in neural networks

Abstract: In our recent studies we investigate the emergence of complex synchronization patterns which arise in networks of coupled neuronal oscillators. The most excited such phenomena are the chimera states and the bump states which are observed in networks of identical and identically coupled neuronal oscillators. Both are hybrid states and while chimera states are characterized by coexistence of coherent and incoherent domains in the network, bump states are composed by coexisting active and silent domains. Both phenomena are unexpected, because all neuronal oscillators are assumed identical and identically coupled in the networks, leading to the idea of spatial symmetry breaking. The implications of these phenomena will be discussed in view of MRI-informed simulations of the human brain.

• Thursday, March 19, 2024 at 19:00 GMT+2

Angela Kedgley, Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London

Simulating hand and wrist function for clinical applications

Abstract: To gain insight into the forces that pass through the musculoskeletal structures, bioengineers have long relied upon models to provide information that we cannot measure directly. In vitro physiological joint simulators were initially the tools of choice; however, in silico musculoskeletal models have rapidly gained ground in recent years. Both techniques have their benefits and my research group is working to gain the best from both in an effort to improve our understanding of the hand and wrist. I will discuss our current work in both areas and describe how we hope to apply these to address questions posed by our clinical colleagues in surgery and rehabilitation.

• Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 17:00 GMT+2

Amalia Rapakousiou, National Hellenic Research Foundation

Macromolecular based Nanomaterials for Energy, Mechanics and Sensing

Abstract: Integrating sub-molecular design and nanostructuration methodologies has paved the way for the creation of novel low-dimensional materials boasting superior properties. Dendrimers and polymers, meticulously designed macromolecules, play a pivotal role in imparting high flexibility and facile fabrication to versatile low-dimensional nanomaterials. This presentation focuses on exploring the diverse applications of nanocomposites derived from dendrimers, polymers, and metal nanoparticles (3D), carbon nanotubes (1D), and graphene (2D) across sensing, mechanics, and energy applications. 

Metallo-dendrimers and metallo-polymers, upon interaction with metal nanoparticles, provided nanonetworks and nanocapsules, with the latter harboring the metal nanoparticles within their confined space. Controlled electron- or hydride-reduction processes yield tailored nanocomposites endowed with exceptional stability and functionality, enabling applications spanning electrochromics, electrochemical derivatization, molecular recognition, and homogeneous catalysis (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2014, 136, 13995–13998, Angew. Chem., Int. Ed. 2014, 53, 8445–8449, Chem. Comm. 2017, 53, 6267-6270). 

Transitioning to 2D nanostructures, the incorporation of flat aromatic pyrene units in polymer aramids results in reinforced H-bonds and π-stacking, promising enhanced mechanical properties. Their liquid deprotonated nanofiber-dispersions were used as a nanoscale building block for producing large-surface, free-standing oligomer macroscopic nanofilms. This 2D assembly leads to significant improvements in reduced modulus and hardness compared to the starting oligomer macroscale fibers, due to a better re-organizational arrangement of the nanofilms, formed under 2D spatial confinement (Polym. Chem., 2020, 11, 1489-1495). 

Addressing the intricate interfacial regions in polymer nanocomposites, innovative mechanical interlocking strategies offer alternatives to conventional polymer/carbon nanotube composites. Strong mechanical bonds between polymers and single-walled carbon nanotubes preserve the latter's native structure and properties,resulting in nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical performance and processability (ACS Nano, 2023, 17,16565-16572, European Patent WO2023275051A1). 

Finally, the development of hybrid electrocatalysts based on functionalized nanocarbons with ligands directly bonded to sustainable metal nanoparticles promises enhanced electrocatalytic activity and stability, showcasing advancements in green electrocatalysis and sustainable energy technologies (NANOElectroCAT project, H.F.R.I.). 

In conclusion, the synergistic integration of macromolecules, macromolecular nanocomposites, and nanostructuring methodologies addressing metal nanoparticles, offer promising avenues for the development of advanced materials with enhanced functionality and performance. 

• Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 18:00 GMT+2

Aliah Shaheen, Department of Life Sciences, Brunel University London

From classrooms to labs: personal reflections  and research insights in Biomechanics and Bioengineering 

Abstract: In this lecture, the speaker will be reflecting on her journey in Biomechanics and Academia and sharing insight into her current work and research in the field. 

• Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 19:00 GMT+2

Athina Markaki, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge

Hierarchical Vascular Networks for Tissue Engineering

Abstract: The primary aim of tissue engineering is to create functional tissue equivalents for biological studies and transplantation. Hierarchical vascular networks are vital in thick tissues and solid organs for nutrient and gas exchange. My group has employed several approaches to develop multiscale vascular networks, including co-culture systems and the use of microfabrication technologies to engineer microfluidic channels within biocompatible materials. We are also working on automatic generation of computational models of 3D vascular networks that satisfy the physiological requirements in terms of fluid flow and therefore allow long-term survival of cells in a 3D tissue.

• Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 17:00 GMT+2

Paraskevi Bourma, HCMR Institute of Oceanography

Ocean Gliders for Marine Research

Abstract: The main topic of this talk will be Ocean Gliders and their applications in oceanography and wider marine research. Three underwater gliders have been integrated into the Poseidon System in order to enhance sustained observations of the Greek Seas, establishing the first endurance line in the Cretan Sea, since 2017. HCMR glider operations and the corresponding research will be highlighted, in the general framework of Ocean Observatories and Operational Oceanography department's activities and scope.

• Tuesday, March 26, 2024 at 18:00 GMT+2

Danae Patsiou, HCMR Institute of Oceanography

Μικροπλαστικά: Συνέπειες και Ερευνητικές Προσπάθειες στην Ελλάδα 

Abstract: Στην ομιλία αυτή θα συζητηθεί ο τρόπος δημιουργίας των μικροπλαστικών, πώς καταλήγουν στα θαλάσσιο περιβάλλον, καθώς και οι επιπτώσεις τους στους θαλάσσιους οργανισμούς. Επιπλέον, θα συζητήσουμε για την τελευταία κατάσταση της έρευνας για τα μικροπλαστικά, καθώς και για τα αποτελέσματα της έρευνας που διεξάγει το Ερευνητικό Κέντρο Θαλάσσιου Περιβάλλοντος και Θαλάσσιων Ερευνών (ΕΛΚΕΘΕ), και η ομάδας μελέτης πλαστικών απορριμμάτων του Ινστιτούτου Ωκεανογραφίας. 

• Tuesday, March 28, 2024 at 18:00 GMT+2

Georgia Loukaidou, SciCo (Science Communication) 

The turbulent nature of doctoral research

Abstract: The talk is going to highlight a survey by the well-known Nature journal that aims to explore all aspects of PhD students' lives and career aspirations. Respondents indicated high levels of satisfaction with PhD programmes overall, but also revealed significant levels of worry and uncertainty and general love–hurt relationship of their PhD life.