Mariangela Rea receives the Una Europa PhD Impact Award

Mariangela Rea, University of Bologna (fourth from the left), appears alongside the other winners of the Una Europa PhD Competition
Mariangela Rea, a PhD student at the Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician” is one of the three winners of the Una Europa PhD Competition. Promoted by Una Europa—an alliance of eleven prestigious European universities, including the University of Bologna—the initiative recognises PhD candidates from member institutions whose research contributes to a better future for society, the economy, the environment, health, education, technology, culture, or politics.

The inaugural edition of the competition focuses on Future Materials, with a spotlight on the studies aimed at developing innovative and sustainable materials. It was open to PhD candidates working in materials science, engineering, sustainability, energy, physics, chemistry, and data science.

Mariangela Rea received the Una Europa PhD Impact Award for her research titled Exploiting 3D Bioprinting for Safer Packaging: Health, Tech and Education. The study focuses on enhancing the safety of materials used in food packaging. Many everyday food products are stored in packaging that releases small amounts of chemical compounds, which we may ingest. By employing cutting-edge 3D printing technology, Mariangela's research enables the creation of realistic liver models capable of simulating human liver reactions to these substances. Her work helps prevent the harmful effects of packaging on health before products reach the market.

The award ceremony took place on Thursday, 28 November, in Bologna during the Una Europa Talk event, held as part of the Una Europa General Assembly hosted by the University of Bologna from 27 to 29 November. The Una Europa Talk brought together expert voices from Europe and Africa to discuss the future of international academic relations, navigating the delicate balance between integration and competition.

“As a PhD student, I envision the university of the future as an inclusive, flexible, and globally connected space, breaking down barriers between disciplines to foster interdisciplinary collaboration. The university of the future prioritises sustainability and supports research that addresses the challenges of our time. Ultimately, it shapes not just skilled professionals, but adaptable and socially responsible global citizens capable of making a positive impact on society,” said Mariangela.