Number 2 - 30.05.2025

Dear colleagues,

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the second issue of DIS@Time.

This newsletter offers not only updates and announcements but also a chance to highlight the people who work and support our daily activities. In particular, we would like to recognize the important contribution of both our administrative and technical teams, whose work plays a fundamental role in enabling the department’s research, teaching, and operations.

Our Administrative Team is made up of four specialized offices that collaborate closely to ensure everything running as smoothly as possible. Specifically:

• The General Affairs Staff Unit, the first point of contact for many, provides support for staff recruitment, contracts, and personnel management, including Ph.D. programmes, offering guidance and timely assistance. The Unit supports the departimental academic community by coordinating communications and the Third Mission, scheduling and administrative processes, managing the Departmental Bodies.
• The Research Unit coordinates and supervises activities related to research and innovation, throughout all phases of project development — from drafting proposals to managing funded research - and in the area of commercial research - assisting in the definition and management of contracts and agreements, as well as matters related to intellectual property.
• The Procurement Unit handles procurement activities, working to meet the diverse needs of research groups and administrative units while ensuring compliance and efficiency.
• The Budgeting and Accounting Unit manages departmental budgets, financial reporting, and all related procedures with professionalism and attention to detail.

Equally crucial is our Technical Services Unit, a team of skilled professionals with diverse expertise who provide hands-on support to laboratories and research groups.

From equipment maintenance to experimental setup, safety oversight, IT-support and logistical coordination, the work of the Technical unit ensures our scientific and office environments function effectively and safely.

In this issue, I would also like to share a little bit about me. With a scientific background including a degree in Industrial Chemistry and a PhD in optoelectronic devices, I spent nine years working in R&D in the private sector. I then moved to academia, supporting the project activities of a research group in DiSAT.

It was during this time that I was first introduced to the administrative side of research and realized how closely connected the scientific and administrative worlds truly are. While they often speak different languages, both are essential and complementary in pursuing shared goals.

This insight led me to apply for my current role, where I strive to strengthen collaboration and communication between these two distinct but deeply interconnected spheres making use of the skills acquired through the master obtained in Project Management for Business Performance and Innovation.

Easy? Taking a moment to consider the other side’s perspective can be more challenging than it seems—but truly enlightening…

 In our next issues, we will dive deeper into what each Team does, with a focus on their activities and roles. Stay tuned for more updates, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or feedback.

We hope you enjoy this issue.

Cristiana

DiSAT District Manager 

A serene work environment promotes motivation, concentration, and involvement of workers, leading to better results and a healthier internal climate. This concept is applicable to any work environment and for any type of occupation. For this reason, the DiSAT has established the Life and Welfare Commission. The Commission began its activities in 2024, with the aim of promoting and maintaining the highest degree of physical, psychological, and social well-being within the Department, fostering a sense of community among its staff, and acting as a bridge with similar services available at POLITO.

The Commission has thought of a first general approach by creating infographics on management procedures that could lead to a more linear approach to the many administrative services available to the department staff.

Then it was considered that well-being also comes from an adequate and 'pleasant' work environment, so the commission participated in the renovation of common areas such as the modernization of a lounge for coffee breaks. Currently, with the collaboration of Prof. Cristian Campagnaro (DAD) and students from the undergraduate courses in Architecture and Design who embraced the teaching experiment, we are following a complex project to convert the former departmental library into a welcoming place, under the careful supervision of Dr. Paola Lerario (PROGES). Very interesting proposals have emerged both from a functional perspective and regarding materials and usability. We can't wait to see which project will be lucky enough to be realized!

This rich 2025 has also seen us committed to creating unconventional training initiatives: a mini experiential course on time management was born in May, entitled "IMPROACTION - Il Bianconiglio" (12-28 May). The course is organized by the Quinta Tinta APS Association, made up of professional certified trainers of improvisational theater who would like to prevent DiSAT staff from turning into many white rabbits constantly busy declaring "It's late, it's late, it's late..."

The Commission's initiatives do not end here!

We have recreational-sports activities in the pipeline which, starting from June, will test the sporting and "competitive" skills of the DiSAT. Moreover, in autumn, we intend to deal with health, organizing sessions with the fundamentals of First Aid (thanks to a project with the Italian Red Cross) and a space dedicated to Mindfulness practices.

See you soon for details, you will find all the appointments scheduled from time to time in your personal diaries!

The Department of Applied Science and Technology (DiSAT) at Politecnico di Torino hosts LyoLab, a highly specialized laboratory dedicated to freeze-drying and the study of drying processes for sensitive materials. Located within the Chemical Engineering area, LyoLab is a reference center for applied research in strategic fields such as pharmaceuticals, food, and biotechnology.“

Freeze-Drying: A Key Technology Across Sectors

Freeze-drying is a drying process that removes water from a material through sublimation, preserving the structure, effectiveness, and functional properties of the product. Its applications are numerous:

• Pharmaceuticals: It is used to stabilize heat-sensitive drugs, vaccines, therapeutic proteins, biologics, and probiotics. Freeze-drying ensures longer shelf life, ease of transport, and safe usage. LyoLab works on developing efficient cycles that reduce time and energy consumption while ensuring high product quality.
• Agri-food: Applied in the production of dehydrated foods with high nutritional value and long shelf life, such as fruits or coffee. The process preserves the organoleptic and nutritional properties, making it ideal for gourmet products, special diets, or space food.
• Cultural heritage conservation: In archival and museum contexts, reeze-drying is used to recover and preserve paper documents damaged by moisture or floods, preventing microbiological degradation. This non-invasive approach is increasingly used by institutions dedicated to the safeguarding of historical archives and library collections.

The lab is equipped with advanced instrumentation that enables in-depth study of the thermal and mass transfer mechanisms involved in freeze-drying, as well as the development and optimization of processes on both lab and industrial scales. LyoLab’s activities range from material characterization to process modeling, with a particular focus on final product quality.

From Molecule to Medicine: Innovation in Formulation and Preservation

LyoLab’s research activities in the pharmaceutical field include:

• Formulation, preservation, and stabilization of biopharmaceuticals;
• Freezing and freeze-drying of peptides, proteins, oligonucleotides, nucleic acids, RNA, and DNA;
• Downstream processing of biopharmaceuticals;
• Continuous manufacturing systems for pharmaceutical applications.

LyoLab also serves as a learning and training environment for students, Ph.D. candidates, and researchers who wish to explore advanced preservation technologies, participating in interdisciplinary research projects and collaborations with academic and industrial partners.

The LyoLab is also the promoter of the 3rd PoliTO Student Contest on Drying and Freeze-Drying, an event open to student teams eager to test their ability to develop innovative ideas by tackling real-world industrial challenges in the field of drying and freeze-drying.

Learn more about the lab here.

Domiziano Doria

PhD Candidate in Materials Science and Technology

38^th cycle

Hello, what is your name and in which research group have you been working?

Domiziano Doria, I'm a PhD student in the CPC Lab Group

Can you briefly describe your PhD research?

I specialize in analyzing complex system trajectories using advanced instrumentation, high-performance computing, and robust descriptors—mathematical representations that capture key structural or dynamic features. My approach spans macro to atomistic scales, analyzing real-scale video observations or molecular dynamics simulations to uncover hidden mechanisms, predict behaviors, and foster innovation across science and engineering. 

What have you enjoyed the most about your PhD work so far?

The most exciting aspect lies in exploring diverse techniques and descriptors to study different systems, showing how seemingly conflicting results can instead offer complementary insights that together yield a deeper understanding.

What challenges or difficulties have you faced during your PhD?

It’s been challenging to resolve contradictions in multifaceted data, but I tackle it by using diverse analysis methods, like comparing different descriptors or integrating experimental findings. This ensures any inconsistencies aren’t dismissed as errors but are examined to reveal subtler dynamics, broadening our understanding of the system.

What inspired you to start a PhD, and why at DiSAT?

My curiosity to unravel complex phenomena and the freedom to explore new methods drove me. I saw a PhD as a chance to dive deep, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to scientific knowledge.

Looking back at your PhD journey, do you have any reflections, advice for future PhD students, or a memorable/fun anecdote from your time at DiSAT?

Stay flexible and open to unexpected insights. Embrace interdisciplinary learning, maintain clear communication with your advisor, and document everything thoroughly. Above all, remember that steady progress—even the smallest steps—adds up over time. Finally, celebrate your successes and refuse to be weighed down by difficulties; towering obstacles often guard the doorway to great discoveries.

Have you already decided on your next career step? If so, would you like to share it with us?

I’m still exploring options, weighing the opportunity to continue in academia against the possibilities in industry.

Hello, what is your name and in which research group have you been working?

My Name is Najeebullah Channa, I am a PhD student in Materials Science and Technology (38th Cycle) and working in Surf-Chem Group, Department of Applied Science and Technology (DiSAT), Politecnico di Torino, Italy

Can you briefly describe your PhD research?

My PhD project is “Innovative photocatalyst to exploit sunlight”, My research is focused on the photocatalytic application of new quantum dots (QDs) coupled TiO2 nanocomposites and iron doped TiO2 to exploit sunlight, I am working on two main research themes related to Reduction that related to climate change and (ii) removal of emerging contaminants from water environment. We developed innovative photocatalyst nanocomposites coupled with (QDs) and successfully converted CO2 into valuable products such as (CO, CH4, and alcohols). Moreover, we synthesized the environmentally friendly iron doped TiO2 photocatalyst and used it for the disinfection of common water pathogenic bacteria.

What have you enjoyed the most about your PhD work so far?

Throughout my PhD journey, the most enjoyable moment has been the opportunity and research deeply with my PhD research topic, while during research discovering new insights and contributing to the existing knowledge related to the topic. Moreover, the best aspect also collaboration, and engaging with fellow researchers and mentors to receive valuable feedback and scientific discussion that ultimately enriched my experience and knowledge. Throughout my PhD journey, I achieved significant milestones. Firstly, I successfully published research articles in reputable journals, which enhanced my scientific writing and deepened my understanding of the subject matter. Additionally, over time, I developed critical thinking skills related to research.

What challenges or difficulties have ou faced during your PhD?

Success does not come with easy steps, I believe that this journey is full of challenges, during my PhD journey, I faced several challenges, but the most significant challenge was the complexity of my research topic, which required vast amounts of literature review and time consumed to optimize the proper experimental protocols. I think, there are some moments when, we feel frustration when experiments do not yield the expected results, which motivates me to rethink my approach. When these things made it difficult to stay motivated, While I have supportive advisors/supervisors who were always available to help and to motivate me to solve these challenges. Despite these challenges, each obstacle provided valuable learning experiences that ultimately contributed to my growth as a researcher and an individual.

What inspired you to start a PhD, and why at DiSAT?

I think a PhD is nothing but a journey of development of skills, personal passion, and professional ambition. Throughout my academic journey, during my undergraduate and master's programs, I was involved in national and international projects related to practical solutions for environmental problems. During research work, I develop the skills to understand the complexities of systems and to contribute original knowledge. These experiences ignited a desire to contribute to quality research and to make a meaningful impact in my area of expertise particularly in environmental issues such as CO2 reduction and pollutants removal from the water environment. There are significant reasons that I decided to start my PhD career in DiSAT, novely of research topic and objectives that actually aligned my research area, and also the expertise of my supervisors in this field.

Looking back at your PhD journey, do you have any reflections, advice for future PhD students, or a memorable/fun anecdote from your time at DiSAT?

During my PhD journey, I realized it was a transformative experience filled with both challenges and achievements. I faced the challenges of experiments failing and ejection of papers from research journals, However, each failure step taught me to maintain a growth mindset. For Prospective doctoral students, my advice is to manage time efficiently by developing a schedule and prioritizing self-care, and surround yourself with mentors, advisors, and research fellows who can provide guidance and support. In last, celebrate your milestones, no matter how small. Always keep an eye on success, do not worry about hurdles that you will face during the entire journey.

Have you already decided on your next career step? If so, would you like to share it with us?

During my PhD journey, I enhanced my research skills particularly related to the most significant environmental issues, I would like to contribute to quality research with practical solutions for these environmental issues, would be good to join academia as a researcher to engage in finding the novel solutions and technologies for solving the environmental issues.

Najeebullah Channa

PhD Candidate in Materials Science and Technology

38^th cycle

Fulvia Cravero

PhD Candidate in Materials Science and Technology

38^th cycle 

Hello, what is your name and in which research group have you been working?

I am Fulvia Cravero and I work in the ALl-Polymer group.

Can you briefly describe your PhD research?

My research project focuses on investigating the relationships between process parameters, microstructure, and final properties in the production of polymer-based materials. In particular, the morphological structuring of polyolefin and polyamide thermoplastic matrices by melt blending processes such as twin screw extrusion and injection molding is investigated. The effects of different processing parameters are evaluated using modeling software that provides insight into the thermo-mechanical stresses experienced by the material during processing. These data are then correlated with the results of thermal, rheological, mechanical, and spectroscopic characterizations of the processed materials.

What have you enjoyed the most about your PhD work so far?

During my PhD, I found it exciting to constantly face new challenges and deepen my understanding through experiments and studies. I enjoyed collaborating with people from all over the world, enriching both my personal and scientific journey.

What challenges or difficulties have you faced during your PhD?

The biggest challenge is dealing with the frustration when experiments don't work as expected, which requires patience, resilience, and constant adjustment to move forward and find effective solutions.

What inspired you to start a PhD, and why at DiSAT?

I had already carried out my master thesis at DISAT, and experiencing first-hand such a stimulating environment, both from a scientific and personal point of view, convinced me to continue my academic journey here.

Looking back at your PhD journey, do you have any reflections, advice for future PhD students, or a memorable/fun anecdote from your time at DiSAT?

To anyone considering a PhD at DISAT, I encourage you not to be afraid to challenge yourself, even when the obstacles seem great. Every difficulty is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to achieve results that may seem distant at first.

Have you already decided on your next career step? If so, would you like to share it with us?

I have not yet made a decision.

Hello, what is your name and in which research group have you been working?

My name is Biagio Ciccone, and I work at the National Research Council of Italy (CNR-STEMS) in Naples. My research group is focused on waste and biomass valorization through thermochemical processes (pyrolysis, gasification, liquefaction, combustion).

Can you briefly describe your PhD research?

My PhD research focuses on the catalytic pyrolysis of olive stone biomass and polyolefins for the valorization of waste materials. The work is mainly experimental and conducted using a spouted bed reactor. The aim is to transform these waste streams into valuable chemical compounds, promoting a more sustainable approach to waste recycling and energy recovery. The research contributes to the broader goal of developing environmentally friendly technologies for resource circularity, especially in the context of bio-based and plastic-derived residues.

What have you enjoyed the most about your PhD work so far?

I’ve particularly enjoyed the hands-on experimental work in the lab and the challenge of translating complex processes into practical results. Seeing the transformation of waste into useful compounds through my own efforts has been deeply satisfying. I’ve also appreciated the collaborative environment and the opportunity to be part of a research topic that has real environmental impact.

What challenges or difficulties have you faced during your PhD?

One of the main challenges has been dealing with the unpredictability of experimental work, especially when working with non-homogeneous waste materials. Equipment issues and long troubleshooting phases are part of the process, and learning to stay resilient and solution-oriented has been a crucial lesson. Time management between lab work, data analysis, and writing has also been a constant balancing act.

What inspired you to start a PhD, and why at DiSAT?

I’ve always been fascinated by applied research, especially when it intersects with environmental sustainability.

Looking back at your PhD journey, do you have any reflections, advice for future PhD students, or a memorable/fun anecdote from your time at DiSAT?

One thing I’ve learned is that perseverance often matters more than perfection. My advice to new PhD students is to embrace the uncertainty of research, stay curious, and build a network of peers. A memorable moment? Probably the first successful run of the reactor after weeks of failed tests. It was a simple result, but it felt like a huge victory.

Have you already decided on your next career step? If so, would you like to share it with us?

I’m currently evaluating opportunities in both academia and industry, particularly in areas related to sustainable process engineering and waste valorization. My goal is to continue working on applied research that bridges scientific innovation and real-world impact.

Biagio Ciccone

PhD Candidate in Materials, Sustainable Processes and Systems for the Transition

38^th cycle 

The Master's Degree Program in Chemical Engineering with a Food and Biotechnological specialization includes organized visits to production plants, allowing students to gain a closer understanding of the various setups used in the manufacturing of agri-food products. These visits are particularly aimed at helping students better grasp the purpose and operation of key equipment such as mixers, separators, and heat exchangers.

During this second semester, several technical visits were organized as part of the course Processes and Technologies of the Food Industry (Master’s degree, food-biotech track), such as:

• Baratti & Milano, Bra: chocolate and candy production plant
• Venchi, Castelletto Stura: chocolate production plant
• Heineken, Pollein: beer production facility

As part of the course Fundamentals of Biochemical Plants (Master’s degree, food-biotech track), some of the visits were held at:

• G.A.I.A. Spa, San Damiano d’Asti: composting and anaerobic digestion plant for organic waste and garden clippings
• Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia: Biotechnology and Molecular Biology laboratories

Still within this course, a thematic lecture by Ing. Eligio Martini, President of Bio On, was enthusiastically welcomed by DiSAT students, researchers, and faculty. The lecture focused on biopolymers and featured the creation of a large-scale industrial plant unique in the European landscape. 

As part of the elective course Principles of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, students also had the opportunity to visit key industrial players in the pharmaceutical biotechnology sector. The guided tours included:

• Soffieria Bertolini, Candiolo: a production facility for pharmaceutical-grade glass vials and bottles, where students observed high-precision forming and quality control processes;
• Olon, Settimo Torinese: a plant specializing in the manufacture of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and enzymes, offering insight into large-scale synthesis and biocatalysis;
• Probiotical, Novara: a biotechnology facility focused on the production of probiotic formulations, showcasing cutting-edge research and production technologies in the field of microbiome health

These visits provided valuable exposure to pharmaceutical manufacturing environments and offered concrete examples of how biotechnology principles are applied in industrial practice.

For the course Sustainability in the Chemical Industry (Sustainable Processes and Products in the Chemical Industry track), students visited the production facilities for biodegradable and compostable bioplastics at Novamont, in Novara.

On May 20th, 2025, DiSAT welcomed students from Iowa State University (Ames, Iowa, USA), in Turin for a three-week Short Mobility Program. The group was accompanied by program coordinator Dr. Shannon Miner and professors Leslie A. Potter and Arka P. Ghosh. In addition to attending classes, the American students will take part in industrial and cultural isits around the city and participate in exchange activities with Politecnico students preparing to study at ISU in the upcoming fall semester. In the photos, two moments from the Welcome Day in Aula Denina, where the group was greeted by Dr. Chiara Rubiano (Internationalization, Cooperation, Alliances, and Mobility), Dr. Vincenzo D’Alessandro (Students & Teaching), and Prof. Stefania Specchia (Erasmus coordinator for Chemical Engineering).

On May 22–23, 2025, DiSAT had the pleasure of hosting a delegation from Jagiellonian University in Kraków, represented by Prof. Andrzej Adamski and Dr. Piotr Legutko, experts in the Environmental Catalysis group. On the morning of May 22, Dr. Legutko delivered a seminar titled “Alkali-based Catalysts for Soot Combustion”, which sparked considerable interest and prompted a scientific dialogue on current environmental sustainability issues. The visit continued on May 23 with a meeting focused on exploring opportunities for collaboration. Topics included potential joint European projects, mobility programs for students and researchers, and the possibility of establishing a bilateral agreement between the two universities. The initiative was a valuable moment of exchange and laid the foundation for future synergies in catalysis and sustainability research.

Whether it's a name beneath a Prancing Horse or a Bitten Apple, a five-ring flag or a signature on a fairytale castle, the LOGO (or logotype) is, by definition, what—through the use of distinctive graphic elements that do not hinder its legibility—characterizes a company or product, or more specifically, the graphic representation of a brand name.

In other words, it refers to that word, always written and depicted in the same way, which we might call “the name of the Brand.”

That being said, in general terms, when we speak of a brand mark, it should consist of at least the following three elements:

• Logotype: the name of the Brand

• Pictogram: the Brand’s icon

• Payoff: the Brand’s message

But it's not just about graphics. It's much more than that. Over time, for consumers, the brand or logo has become a symbol of belonging, recognition, and distinction.

If we think about it, the concept of the logo is not a modern invention. The heraldry of medieval Europe, for example, was a system for assigning meaning and social status through design elements, created precisely to make a particular family identifiable and distinguishable from others.

In 1885, Frank Mason Robinson designed the logo of a well-known American caffeinated beverage, and for many, this marked the beginning of the modern era of logo design. Between 1910 and 1913, commercial logos became very common in the United States and Europe, and in 1914, Pierre de Coubertin designed the Olympic flag: the logo was no longer the exclusive domain of commerce and industry.

The fashion world plays with logos, sometimes making them the central element of a style creation, exaggerating their size, colors, or repetition, with the goal of achieving immediate recognition and of creating, in the consumer, a sense of belonging to a community that identifies with that symbol.

And in the academic world as well, students come together as a community around a logo. Every university uses its own visual identification system, of which the logo is an essential part. In many educational institutions, the chosen design carries hidden symbolism tied to the history of the university or the city it belongs to.

The story of the Politecnico’s Sign began only in 1952, and the key milestones of its history can be found on the website of the Politecnico’s Archive Museum.

Over time, the Politecnico’s departments felt the need to design a visual identity that would make them recognizable and distinct. DiSAT was among these, creating a specific logo in 2012 through a complex design process. The graphic, born from a collaboration between the then Director, Professor Guido Saracco, and the University's communication office, focused on three orbits representing the three core disciplines of DiSAT: CHEMISTRY, PHYSICS, and MATERIALS, each colored according to the shades corresponding to their respective departmental areas. These orbits, centered around a nucleus (the dot on the “i”), evoked electron orbits.

Over time, however, a need emerged to launch a restyling or rebranding project—aimed at continuing to highlight the department’s “souls,” their differences and interactions, but, if possible, in a more modern way, suitable for today's communication needs.

After a long design contest, the proposal by Politecnico's Graphics Office won the majority of votes during the Department Council meeting on May 19. Essentially, it is a simple restyling of the “old” logo: a change in the lettering through the use of a more rounded typeface, aligned with the POLITO’s logo, a less saturated color palette for the orbitals, and some graphic adjustments to make the logo more modern—yet still easily recognizable and consistent with the previous version, thereby reaffirming the Department’s identity.

This is our distinctive mark, and with this new project, DiSAT renews its visual identity, projecting itself into the future in the spirit of innovation and continuity.