Maria Minotaki, PhD
Maria Minotaki, PhD

PhD in Computational Chemistry

ICIQ

About

I recently completed my PhD in Computational Chemistry from the Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ), where I conducted my research under the supervision of Prof. Núria López. My work focuses on first-principles simulations, machine learning, and data science applied to catalyst design. With experience across physics, materials science, and chemistry, I develop predictive models and simulation workflows to accelerate discoveries in catalysis.

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Interests
  • Machine Learning & Data Science
  • First-Principles Simulations
  • Materials Science
Education
  • PhD Chemical Science and Technology

    Institute of Chemical Research of Catalonia

  • MSc Materials Science and Technology

    Department of Materials Science and Technology, University of Crete

  • BSc Physics

    Department of Physics, University of Crete

Machine Learning for Catalysts Design
Developing sustainable technologies is crucial for overcoming environmental challenges and driving socioeconomic progress. My research focuses on improving Single-atom catalysts (SACs), as they offer exceptional activity and selectivity, yet their stability remains a key challenge in catalyst design. This is achieved, by using a multilevel approach, integrating machine learning with computational methods, to systematically investigate the stability of SACs on doped carbon. Specifically, a machine learning framework is developed to identify key stability descriptors, capturing the interplay between metal and support interactions. Electronic structure analysis reveals the influence of nitrogen speciation on SACs electronic properties, while dimensionality reduction techniques uncover regions of electronic similarity. The transferability of the stability descriptors is assessed in dual-atom catalysts, demonstrating their applicability to more complex systems. Finally, the deactivation mechanism of Fe-NxCy moieties under oxygen reduction reaction conditions is examined, revealing the destabilizing effect of reactive oxygen species on metal-host bonds. The findings provide actionable insights for developing more robust, efficient, and sustainable catalysts for energy and environmental applications.