Research

Research at the NTUA School of Chemical Engineering  is a core pillar of its academic identity and is focused on areas of high scientific and technological importance, with strong relevance at both national and international levels. Guided by contemporary societal and industrial needs, the School generates new knowledge, develops methodologies, and delivers technological solutions that address key sectors of the economy, health, energy, and the environment.

Particular emphasis is placed on three main research axes: Biotechnology – Food, Materials – Nanotechnology, and Process Engineering. Within these areas, research ranges from bioprocesses, biocatalysts, bioactive compounds, and food technologies, to advanced/functional materials, nanostructures and surfaces, and to the design, modeling, simulation, control, and optimization of chemical and industrial processes. A common denominator in modern research goals is energy optimization and the adoption of sustainable practices that reduce environmental impact.

Research at the School is interdisciplinary and often requires collaboration among laboratories within the School as well as across NTUA. At the same time, the School maintains strong international connectivity through collaborations with universities, research centers, and industrial partners abroad, via participation in scientific and research consortia, strategic long-term partnerships, and mobility schemes such as Erasmus and related European initiatives. These synergies support the exchange of expertise, access to state-of-the-art infrastructures, and the production of outcomes with international visibility.

The School’s laboratories and units are staffed with specialized research personnel and supported by modern, advanced equipment, enabling demanding experimental and computational approaches. This infrastructure makes it possible to develop innovative processes, generate and analyze data reliably, and move from fundamental research to applications with industrial and societal value.

A decisive role in the School’s research output is played by early-career researchers, primarily PhD candidates and postdoctoral researchers, who form the driving force of research teams. Through doctoral theses, postdoctoral work, and participation in competitive research projects, a dynamic environment of training and innovation is created, reflecting the breadth of topics addressed by the School.

Research activities are supported financially, to a large extent, through competitive funding from Greek and European sources. This model strengthens quality, transparency, and international competitiveness, while also reinforcing the School’s contribution to frontier challenges such as energy transition, clean technologies, circular economy, system resilience, and advanced solutions for sustainable development.