"I met professor Stancu in my 4th year of study at the University Politehnica of Bucharest. Her passion for research in the field of biopolymers inspired me to carry on my studies and follow a PhD program. We worked together during this time, and I have grown as a scientist under her guidance. As a true mentor, Izabela educated me on how to design a material, what type of analyses are relevant, how to perform them and present the resulted data in an objective manner. She always encouraged critical thinking and insisted on having a well-designed research plan before tackling a new study. Our collaboration continues, as we are working together along with other young researchers that she mentors and colleagues with complementary skills.

Due to her experience in the design of hydrogels and nanostructured scaffolds and surfaces with biomedical applications, Prof. Stancu is involved in several national and international projects. Her strong theoretic background and practical skills makes her a valuable and respected member of the teams. The seriousness and profoundness with which she handles the tasks at hand have always been appreciated by all her collaborators.

Dr. Stancu was recently involved in the writing and implementation of a large project, that made possible the acquisition of modern infrastructure. Due to her efforts, our research group has access to performant equipment for the fabrication and characterization of polymer-based materials. As a result, APMG members have enlarged their area of expertise and established new collaborations with several international research groups.

Apart from her achievements in the field of research, Dr. Stancu is a professor at the Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science and the Faculty of Medical Engineering. She is also vice-dean of the latter, her responsibilities including counseling students with regards to the benefits of the ERASMUS+ program. Although she has a busy schedule, she always finds the time to talk to the students, advising them on what actions are appropriate for benefiting from the program.

Izabela Stancu is a highly appreciated scientist, a well respected professor, and a reliable colleague, always open to new collaborations and ready to tackle new research paths. Her constant concern for the well-being of the members of her team and her readiness to support both coworkers and students are admired by all those who know her. Considering all these traits, the term “hero” seems to be a pretty accurate depiction of her."

Andrada Serafim, Advanced Polymer Materials Group, University Poilitehnica of Bucharest, Romania

Nomination Category: Lab Leader

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Who's your Lab Hero?

This is your chance to give back to the scientists who make – or who have made – a positive difference to your life, career, and workplace. That might be putting in extra effort in the lab, supporting their colleagues in difficult times, producing incredible results through their work, or making the lab a better place for everyone...

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Nominations close 8th December 2021. T&Cs apply.