About me
I am a postdoctoral researcher at UCLM, where I collaborate on projects focused on the development of low-cost electrochemical sensors for the detection of polluting gases. My work focuses on the synthesis, modification and characterization of nanostructured materials such as graphene oxide, carbon nanotubes and mixed oxides of cerium and praseodymium, applied to environmental monitoring systems. I have designed sensors capable of detecting gaseous ammonia at ppb levels with high sensitivity, and I am currently collaborating in the synthesis of two-dimensional materials for gas adsorption studies. I use advanced characterization techniques such as visible optical microscopy (VOM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV-Vis and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis/DRS), atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy (Raman), thermal analysis through thermogravimetric analysis and differential gravimetric thermometry (TGA/DGT), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), nitrogen adsorption-desorption at 77 K (BET), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and chronoamperometry (CA). PhD in Chemistry from the University of Granada with Cum Laude recognition and a scholarship from Minciencias (Colombia). My thesis focused on Photocatalytic systems for the degradation of emerging pollutants, using 3D-printed reactors, catalysts based on metal oxides and bismuth salts doped with silver nanoparticles. I led the design of photoreaction equipment with LED lighting and participated in a European project on 3D printing applied to gas reduction processes, resulting in scientific publications, academic collaborations and a pending patent. With more than ten years of teaching and research experience in Colombia (University of Caldas, National University of Colombia and Catholic University of Manizales), I have led university-industry projects on industrial waste valorization, developed catalysts for C-C coupling reactions, and supervised multiple degree projects and theses in environmental and chemical engineering.
Education
Chemistry PhD
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainDistinction CUM LAUDE
Area: Photocatalysis in Additive/3D Manufacturing
Thesis: Design and Modeling, via 3D Printing, of Hybrid Photoreactor/Catalyst Systems to Optimize Environmentally Relevant Reactions
Master's in Chemical Engineering
National University of Colombia (UNAL)Manizales, ColombiaMeritorious Thesis Distinction
Area: Hybrid Two-Dimensional Materials
Thesis: Synthesis and Characterization of Layered Double Hydroxides Intercalated with Metal Complexes
Degree in Chemical Engineering
National University of Colombia (UNAL)Manizales, ColombiaTechnical Bachelor in Industrial Chemistry
INEM Baldomero Sanín CanoManizales, ColombiaGraduates
Flexible Learning Environments Supported by ICT
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)Manizales, ColombiaUniversity Teaching
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)Manizales, ColombiaUniversity Teaching
University of Caldas (UCaldas)Manizales, ColombiaScientific courses and Conferences
Occupational Risk Prevention R&D
University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM)Ciudad Real, SpainNov 11, 2025
Training in Job Skills. How to Prepare for an Interview in English
Valencia Activa Foundation (FCVPE)Valencia, SpainSep 30, 2024
1st Conference of Young Researchers of the Spanish Carbon Group
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainDec 02, 2022
The Wonderful World of Carbon-Based Materials
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainNov 30, 2022
38th Biennial Meeting of the Spanish Chemical Society
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainJun 30, 2022
To Be Visible, or Not to Be, That is the Question: Dissemination of Publications
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainMay 30, 2022
Artificial Intelligence 360°
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainMay 20, 2022
15th Meeting of the Spanish Carbon Group
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainApr 17, 2022
Waste Management, Circular Economy and Entrepreneurship
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainApr 24, 2022
Doctoral Mentoring Program
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainApr 01, 2022
Introduction to Regular Expressions
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainFeb 18, 2022
Collaboration and Mobility in Doctoral Studies
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainFeb 11, 2022
Annual International Congress of Doctoral Students
Miguel Hernández University (UMH)Granada, SpainFeb 04, 2022
Visualization of Results (Figures) in Scientific Articles
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainFeb 04, 2022
Tips for Successful Grant Applications: Experiences from the Applicant and the Reviewer Point of View
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainDec 21, 2021
Brief Introduction to Data Science and Its Techniques
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainDec 03, 2021
Literature Review Workshop for Doctoral Students
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainNov 26, 2021
Document Writing
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainOct 28, 2021
Scientific Dissemination
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainOct 14, 2021
Writing and Publishing Scientific Articles
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainJun 18, 2021
Tools for Research Development
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainMay 27, 2021
The Entrepreneurial Path of Researchers in Training
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainMar 16, 2021
Mapping Science with VOSviewer
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainMar 01, 2021
Preparation of the Research Plan
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainFeb 17, 2021
Creating a Word Document for the Thesis
University of Granada (UGR)Granada, SpainFeb 17, 2021
3rd Technical Conference on Environmental Engineering
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)Manizales, ColombiaOct 29, 2015
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in food handling
Politécnico ProsanearMedellín, ColombiaJan 22, 2015
Differential Scanning Calorimetry. Fundamentals and Applications
National University of Colombia (UNAL)Manizales, ColombiaNov 13, 2009
Continuous Improvement Management
National University of Colombia (UNAL)Manizales, ColombiaOct 09, 2009
Heterogeneous Catalysis. Principles and Applications
National University of Colombia (UNAL)Manizales, ColombiaFeb 13, 2009
Internal Audits Applied to ISO/IEC 17025 Standard
National Learning Service (SENA)Manizales, ColombiaNov 28, 2007
Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
National University of Colombia (UNAL)Manizales, ColombiaNov 02, 2007
Fundamentals of ISO/IEC 17025:2005 Standard
National Learning Service (SENA)Manizales, ColombiaOct 24, 2007
National Symposium on Nanotechnology. The 21st Century Revolution
National University of Colombia (UNAL)Manizales, ColombiaSep 16, 2006
Colombian Congress of Chemical Engineering
National University of Colombia (UNAL)Manizales, ColombiaAug 26, 2005
Research, Development and Application of Helio-Photocatalytic Methods
University of Caldas (UCaldas)Manizales, ColombiaDec 06, 2004
First Technical Conference on Chemical Engineering
National University of Colombia (UNAL)Manizales, ColombiaNov 29, 2001
Work Experience
University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM)
Ciudad Real, SpainPostdoctoral R&D&I Research
- Design of electrodes for the determination of trace-level substances in real gaseous phases
- Photoelectrochemical study of metal-centered molecules
- Practical application of sensors with interdigitated electrodes in atmospheric environments
University of Castilla-La Mancha (UCLM)
Ciudad Real, SpainPostdoctoral R&D&I Research
- Design and implementation of an electrochemical system for gas detection (ammonia)
- Innovation in the synthesis of cerium and praseodymium nanoparticles for gas adsorption
- Modification of interdigitated electrodes using airbrushing
University of Granada (UGR)
Granada, SpainPhD Thesis Scholarship
- Optimizing nanoparticle anchoring in the channels of 3D-printed microreactors
- Design and construction of LED-adapted photoreactors for the degradation of emerging contaminants
- Degradation of sulfamethoxazole (SMX) with these devices
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)
Manizales, ColombiaUniversity Professor
- Teaching in: Water Quality, Unit Operations, Fluid Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Hydraulics, Material and Energy Balance
- Supervising final degree projects, tutoring internships and academic practices
- Directing and co-directing research projects, and implementing atomic adsorption equipment
University of Caldas (UCaldas)
Manizales, ColombiaUniversity Professor
- Teaching in: Physical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry Laboratory, Mechanics of Materials, Materials Science, General Chemistry, General Chemistry Laboratory, Analytical Chemistry, Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Laboratory I, Chemistry Laboratory II, Chemical Kinetics, Chemical Equilibrium, Thermodynamics, Chemical Risk, Fluid Mechanics, Environmental Management
- Directing and co-directing research projects
- Adaptation of curricular plans for subjects from the Institutional Plan for Academic Activities in Basic Chemistry
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaTechnical Engineer in Physicochemical Instrumentation
- Ultraviolet-visible spectrophotometer operator
- Implementation of the methodology for determining phosphorus in water samples
- Methodological development for the quantitative determination of mineralogical phases
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaChemical Engineer Laboratory Analyst
- X-ray diffraction and potentiostat equipment operator
- Development of quality management indicators
- Writing technical manuals for laboratory equipment
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaQuality Management Engineer
- Implementation of technical procedures in accordance with ISO/IEC 17025:2005
- Preparation of laboratory performance reports
- Analysis of quality management indicators and measurement traceability
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaMaterials Laboratory Technician
- Support and implementation of the quality management system
- Installation and commissioning of electrochemical and X-ray diffraction equipment
- Technical support for external laboratory users
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaResearch and Development in Analysis of Nanostructured and Functional Materials
- Physicochemical characterization of materials by: SEM, TEM-HR, XRD, FT-IR, XPS, Raman, TGA/DSC, adsorption-desorption at liquid nitrogen temperature, cyclic voltammetry, chronoamperometry, atomic adsorption (AA) and ultraviolet-visible microscopy (UV-Vis)
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaWater Quality Laboratory Engineer
- Determination of physicochemical parameters of water quality by: residual chlorine, pH, color, chlorides, phosphorus, hardness, BOD, COD, coagulation-flocculation, jar test, and disinfection
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaLaboratory Support Engineer
- Laboratory technician for academic chemistry laboratory practices for high school students
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaEngineer Specialized in R&D for Technological Projects
- Synthesis and characterization of nanostructured materials
- Study of the chelate effect for the formation of coordination complexes
- Partial oxidation of alcohols with the prepared coordination complexes
Direction of final degree/university projects
University of Granada (UGR)
Granada, SpainDegree in Chemistry
Design and 3D printing of photocatalytically active microreactors for the photodegradation of emerging compounds in water
Student: Miguel Ángel Moreno García
Participation: Mentoring based on doctoral thesis
University of Granada (UGR)
Granada, SpainDegree in Chemistry
Development of Visible-Light-Active Photocatalysts Based on Metal Oxide Nanoparticles for Decontamination
Student: Álvaro Munguía Ubernia
Participation: Mentoring based on doctoral thesis
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)
Manizales, ColombiaDegree in Environmental Engineering
Synthesis of HDL from industrial waste and exchange with hydrogen peroxide with potential use in disinfection of aqueous sources
Student: Juan Camilo Valencia Castañeda
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)
Manizales, ColombiaDegree in Environmental Engineering
Synthesis of a Mixed Nanostructured Material of the Hydrotalcite-Hydroxysalt Type and Evaluation of Its Removal Capacity
Student: Tatiana Velásquez Montoya
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)
Manizales, ColombiaDegree in Environmental Engineering
Valorization of an Industrial Waste through the Synthesis and Characterization of Nanostructured Materials with Bactericidal Potential
Student: Greeidy Yeimison Cárdenas Vera
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)
Manizales, ColombiaDegree in Environmental Engineering
Evaluation of the Bactericidal Activity of Layered Hydroxysalts
Student: Daniela Gil Ramírez
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)
Manizales, ColombiaDegree in Environmental Engineering
Preliminary Evaluation for the Valorization of Wastes in the Production of Hydrotalcite-Type Nanostructured Materials
Student: María Teresa Romero Orozco
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)
Manizales, ColombiaDegree in Environmental Engineering
Preliminary Assessment of Dye Adsorption Using Layered Hydroxysalts
Student: Juliana Cetina Marín
Catholic University of Manizales (UCM)
Manizales, ColombiaDegree in Environmental Engineering
Valorization of an Industrial Waste Used as Raw Material for the Preparation and Evaluation of a Possible Coagulant–Flocculant for Turbid Water
Student: Andry Julieth Matiz García
Participations in Doctoral and Master's Theses
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaPhD in Engineering - Chemical Engineering
Synthesis and application of antioxidant-modified layered double hydroxides for the design of a Pickering-coacervate hybrid encapsulation system
Student: Laura María Márquez Tafur
Director: Óscar Hernán Giraldo Osorio
Participation: Evaluator
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaMaster in Engineering - Chemical Engineering
Liquid-Solid Extraction and Encapsulation of Bioactive Compounds from Ginger
Student: Normal Lucia Medina Pimentel
Director: Óscar Hernán Giraldo Osorio
Participation: Codirector
National University of Colombia (UNAL)
Manizales, ColombiaMaster in Engineering - Chemical Engineering
Biorefineries Based on the Catalytic Conversion of Biomass for the Production of Phenolic Compounds from "Eucalyptus grandis" and "Calendula officinalis" Residues
Student: Jhonny Alejandro Poveda Giraldo
Director: Carlos Ariel Cardona Alzate
Participation: Evaluator