Karla Marin, new PhD researcher at Energy Conversion and Storage group

Image

Maria Karla Marin Diaz joined the ICMM on last February as predoctoral researcher for the Energy Conversion and Storage group. Although she is from Cuba, it's been a while that she lives in Spain. After completing her Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and a Master’s degree in Chemistry for Sustainability and Energy at the University of Alcalá, she pursuits her career here at the ICMM. 

What have you worked on so far?
During my undergraduate and master’s projects, I worked on the synthesis and characterisation of functional materials, particularly metal–oxide catalysts for energy-related applications. I have experience with materials synthesis, structural and surface characterisation techniques, and analysis of structure–property relationships.

What will you work on? With whom?
My PhD project focuses on quantum topological materials, with an emphasis on single-crystal growth, structural characterisation, and transport properties. I am co-supervised by Federico Serrano and Henrik Andersen at ICMM.

Why ICMM?
ICMM offers a strong interdisciplinary environment in materials science, excellent experimental facilities, and active collaboration between theoretical and experimental groups. The combination of expertise in synthesis, characterisation, and quantum materials makes it an ideal place for my doctoral research.

And a personal touch: any hobbies? What would you like to contribute to the institute?
Outside of research, I enjoy scuba diving and music. I would like to contribute to the institute by participating in outreach and dissemination activities, sharing knowledge within the group, and fostering collaboration among researchers and students.