1. Congratulations on winning the Separations Travel Award! What are your current research areas? How did you become interested in your current research field?
I am deeply grateful to the journal Separations and MDPI for the opportunity provided by the Travel Award, which allows early-career researchers to attend conferences, connect with leading scientists and exchange knowledge and ideas in the field of expertise.
I am currently in the third year of my PhD, focusing on the development of bioanalytical methods using solid-phase microextraction techniques combined with derivatization. My research aims to enhance sensitivity, selectivity, and efficiency in pharmaceutical and biological analyses, contributing to more reliable and practical bioanalytical workflows.
My interest in analytical chemistry began during my undergraduate studies, when I conducted my thesis in an analytical chemistry laboratory. During my master’s in industrial pharmacy, I deepened my expertise in analytical methods, particularly in pharmaceutical analysis, through my diploma project in a pharmaceutical analysis lab. Inspired by the mentorship of supportive supervisors, I decided to continue with PhD studies in bioanalysis, pursuing innovative approaches to tackle challenges in complex biological matrices.

2. Where did you learn about how to apply for this journal award? Can you briefly introduce which conference or conferences you plan to attend with this award?
I learned about the Separations Travel Award through the journal’s website and its social media channels. I plan to use this award to attend the 28th International Symposium on Advances in Extraction Technologies (ExTech) in Gembloux, Belgium, where I will present results from my current research. The ExTech symposium series is a premier international event in analytical chemistry, focusing on sampling and sample preparation. Its program covers fundamentals, new materials and technologies, miniaturization, automation and robotics, quality assurance, sustainability, and a wide range of applications. Attending this symposium will allow me to engage with leading researchers in my field and exchange ideas on emerging bioanalytical techniques.

3. What do you think is your greatest scientific achievement so far?
A key outcome of my research is the recently published study “Expanding the applicability of biocompatible Salivette® as extraction sorbent in pipette-tip format: Determination of memantine in human urine as proof-of-concept” (Journal of Chromatography A, 2025). In this work, I led the experimental design and execution, demonstrating for the first time the use of the synthetic swab material from commercially available Salivette® devices as a low-cost sorbent in pipette-tip microextraction. The method provided excellent analytical performance while requiring minimal solvent volumes and no specialized sorbent synthesis or modification. Importantly, the innovation and environmental profile of the approach were assessed using both the Violet Innovation Grade Index (VIGI) and AGREEprep, confirming the method’s novelty and alignment with Green Analytical Chemistry principles. This study is part of a broader research direction in my PhD exploring multiple microextraction formats, including pipette-tip configurations, fabric-phased membrane sorbents (FPSE), and alternative miniaturized extraction phases, in combination with suitable derivatization schemes for improved selectivity. I am particularly proud that this work demonstrates how a simple, commercially available material can be transformed into a high-performing, eco-friendly analytical tool, offering a practical and sustainable solution for bioanalytical laboratories.

4. Which research topics in your field do you think will be of particular interest to the research community in the coming years?
In the coming years, I believe that research in bioanalytical chemistry will increasingly focus on miniaturized and automated sample preparation techniques, the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning for data analysis, and the development of sustainable, green methodologies. These topics will attract attention due to their potential to improve sensitivity, efficiency, and reproducibility, while reducing environmental impact. Additionally, applications in clinical diagnostics, pharmaceutical analysis, and environmental monitoring will continue to drive interest, as they address real-world challenges and have direct societal relevance. Researchers who innovate in these areas will likely make meaningful contributions to both scientific knowledge and practical applications.

5. What is the secret to a happy scientific life? Or, as a scientific researcher, how do you balance life and research work?
I believe the secret to a happy scientific life is maintaining a balance between dedication to research and personal well-being. Staying organized and setting clear priorities helps me manage experiments and deadlines efficiently, while pursuing collaborations and exploring new ideas keeps my curiosity and passion alive. At the same time, I make sure to dedicate time to hobbies, exercise, and social activities, which allow me to recharge and maintain a fresh perspective. In my experience, combining structured work, continuous learning, and personal time is key to sustaining long-term motivation and enjoyment in scientific research.

6. Do you have any advice for aspiring young researchers looking to make a meaningful impact in their respective fields?
I would advise aspiring young researchers to pursue their work with curiosity and passion, while remaining persistent even in the face of challenges. Building strong collaborations and exchanging ideas with peers can greatly enhance the impact of their research. Continuously learning and staying updated on emerging methods and technologies is also essential. Above all, focusing on solving meaningful problems and contributing knowledge that can make a difference is what defines a fulfilling and impactful scientific career.

7. What qualities of researchers do you think are more conducive to their research progress?
I believe that curiosity, persistence, and adaptability are among the most important qualities for successful research progress. Curiosity drives researchers to explore new ideas and ask meaningful questions, while persistence helps them overcome challenges and setbacks that are inherent in scientific work. Adaptability allows them to respond effectively to unexpected results or shifts in research direction. Additionally, strong communication and collaboration skills enhance the exchange of knowledge and foster productive teamwork. Researchers who combine these qualities are better equipped to innovate, solve complex problems, and make sustained progress in their fields.

8. What is your opinion of the open access model of publishing?
I believe that the open access publishing model plays a crucial role in modern scientific research. By providing free and immediate access to research articles, it allows knowledge to be disseminated widely and enables researchers, students, and the general public to benefit from scientific findings. While article processing charges can be a challenge, the overall impact of open access is highly positive, as it promotes transparency, collaboration, and faster advancement in science. Open access journals, such as Separations, help ensure that valuable research reaches a global audience without barriers.

9. Would you like to share a few words for the journal?
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Separations for providing opportunities like the Travel Award, which support early-career researchers in sharing their work and connecting with the scientific community. The journal plays a significant role in advancing analytical chemistry by promoting high-quality research and fostering global collaboration. I am truly honored to be recognized and supported by Separations, and I look forward to contributing further to the field. In the future, I hope to have the opportunity to organize a Special Issue as a Guest Editor and contribute as a reviewer, further supporting the journal’s mission.