Announcements

Name: Dr. Rossana Dimitri
Affiliation: Department of Innovation Engineering, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy
Website: https://www.unisalento.it/scheda-utente/ /people/rossana.dimitri
Interests: damage and fracture mechanics; contact mechanics; structural mechanics; solid mechanics; computational mechanics; advanced composite materials; nanomaterials and nanotechnology

We are pleased to announce that Dr. Rossana Dimitri has been appointed Associate Editor of the “Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures” Section in Nanomaterials (ISSN: 2079-4991). With an extensive background in scientific research and publishing, she will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this role.

Dr. Rossana Dimitri is an Associate Professor at the Department of Innovation Engineering, University of Salento, Lecce, Italy. Her research covers a broad spectrum of topics, such as structural mechanics, solid mechanics, damage and fracture mechanics, high-performing computational methods, consulting in applied technologies and technology transfer, with a special focus on the theoretical and numerical modeling of heterogeneous materials and enhanced structures, whose response could be affected by staking sequences, ply orientations, agglomeration of nanoparticles, volume fractions of the constituents and porosity levels, in a context where an increased computational demand is required to solve such complicated solid mechanics problems. She is the author of 150 scientific publications, and she collaborates with many national and international researchers and professors worldwide, visible from her scientific production. She also collaborates with different prestigious international journals in the structural mechanics and materials science field, as a reviewer, member of the Editorial Board, and Guest Editor for different special issues.

The following is a short Q&A with Dr. Rossana Dimitri, who shared her vision for the journal with us, as well as her views on the research area:

1. What motivated you to assume the role of Section Associate Editor for this journal?
I was driven to assume the role of Section Associate Editor for this journal by my strong commitment to advancing research in nanomaterials and their wide-ranging applications, particularly from a structural standpoint. Over the years, I have witnessed the transformative impact of nanomaterials and recognize this journal as a vital platform for disseminating pioneering research in the field. With a background in theoretical and numerical modeling of nanomaterials and nanostructures, I am eager to contribute to the publication of high-quality, innovative, and impactful work that shapes the future of nanotechnology. This role also offers a valuable opportunity to engage with leading experts, remain at the forefront of emerging advancements, and support the growth of early career researchers. I am especially enthusiastic about facilitating the publication of research that addresses critical global challenges—such as sustainability and efficiency—which closely align with my academic and professional goals.

2. How do you envision the evolution of this research field in the coming years?
The field of nanomaterials is evolving rapidly, propelled by breakthroughs in materials science and interdisciplinary collaboration. A major area of growth will be the development of more sustainable and efficient nanomaterials, especially for energy and environmental applications. As the demand for sustainability intensifies, nanomaterials will be central to advancing next device technologies—aimed at enhancing performance, reducing costs, and improving recyclability. Additionally, I foresee a growing integration of nanomaterials with artificial intelligence and machine learning. These tools will revolutionize material design and optimization, leading to the emergence of intelligent, self-assembling, and multifunctional materials capable of adapting to their environments or specific user needs. Overall, nanomaterials will become increasingly embedded in industries focused on sustainability and innovation. From energy storage and renewable technologies to pollution control, they will be essential in shaping more efficient, eco-friendly, and digitally integrated industrial processes.

3. What are your thoughts on the progress of the open access model within the publishing realm?
The rise of open access in scholarly publishing has been transformative, reshaping how scientific knowledge is shared and accessed. By removing paywalls, open access democratizes research dissemination, allowing scientists—particularly those from underfunded institutions or developing regions—to reach a global audience. It also broadens engagement, enabling researchers, policymakers, and the public to access the latest scientific advancements. One of the most promising aspects of this shift is the increasing number of high-quality journals adopting the open access model. As this trend continues, there is a strong emphasis on preserving rigorous peer review standards and upholding the integrity of published work, making open access a credible and competitive alternative to traditional subscription-based publishing. Despite the progress, challenges remain. Sustainable funding models for open access, especially for high-cost research, need further development. Additionally, the rise of predatory journals pose a threat to the credibility of open access publishing. Looking ahead, continued collaboration among institutions, publishers, and funding agencies will be crucial to support the growth of open access. By doing so, we can enhance the accessibility, transparency, and global impact of scientific research.

4. What advice or principles would you offer to young scholars aiming to pursue similar research paths with a focus on excellence?
My advice to young scholars pursuing a similar research path with a focus on excellence is anchored in three key principles: curiosity, collaboration, and perseverance. First, cultivate a genuine curiosity and a passion for discovery. The most impactful researchers are those who constantly ask questions, challenge established ideas and seek out new directions—often across disciplinary boundaries. Don’t hesitate to explore unconventional ideas; innovation frequently arises from the questions others overlook. Second, embrace collaboration and engage with a diverse research community. Scientific progress is rarely achieved in isolation. Building strong networks—across disciplines, institutions, and countries—not only enriches your perspective but also exposes you to new tools, methods, and ways of thinking that can elevate your work. Third, be persistent and prepared for challenges. Research is a long-term endeavor marked by both triumphs and setbacks. Whether you’re facing experimental hurdles, funding limitations, or unexpected results, resilience is key. Stay focused on your goals, learn from every outcome, and remain adaptable in your approach. Finally, prioritize effective communication. Sharing work through publications, conferences, and outreach is essential to ensuring its impact. Great research not only advances knowledge—it informs, inspires, and contributes to broader societal progress when communicated well.

5. What was it like to serve as an Associate Editor for the “Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures” Section? What are your expectations and goals in this role?
Serving as an Associate Editor for “Theory and Simulation of Nanostructures” Section is an incredibly rewarding experience. It allows me to engage closely with cutting-edge research in fields critical to addressing global challenges like high-performing computational strategies and advanced theoretical formulations to model nanomaterials and nanostructures. Reviewing high-quality manuscripts and collaborating with leading researchers offers a valuable insight into emerging trends and the evolving landscape in this field. I find it both challenging and fulfilling to help ensure that only rigorous, impactful work must be published, while also supporting authors through the review process to enhance their contributions. This role also will enable me to influence the direction of the Section by identifying key research areas and facilitating discussions on topics vital to advancing materials technologies. One of the most meaningful aspects of this position is building a strong, interdisciplinary research community. Fostering collaboration and the exchange of ideas not only enriches the journal’s content but also strengthens its role within the scientific community. My goals are to continue promoting high-quality research, expand the journal’s influence, and bridge the gap between fundamental science and real-world applications. I am particularly committed to advancing innovation in sustainable energy systems, with a focus on efficiency, novel materials, and critical areas like renewable materials, carbon capture, and energy storage. Additionally, I hope to support and encourage emerging researchers, ensuring the journal remains a dynamic and inclusive platform for the next generation of scientific leaders.

We wish her every success in her new position, and we look forward to her contributions to the journal.